CAPITOL HILL, MONROVIA – The University of Liberia (UL) has taken a decisive step to address rising indiscipline and violence on its campuses with the establishment of a Student Disciplinary Committee (SDC). Announced by UL President Dr. Layli Maparyan in consultation with the UL Board of Trustees, the seven-member committee is tasked with investigating violations of the UL Student Handbook and recommending appropriate penalties.
In a memorandum sent to faculty, staff, and students on October 13, 2025, Dr. Maparyan outlined that the SDC would begin its work immediately and continue through the 2025-2026 academic year. The memo emphasized that the committee will operate according to the guidelines set forth in the revised Student Handbook, including the committee’s Terms of Reference.
The SDC will meet at least once per academic semester, or more frequently as needed, to investigate reported violations. It will also submit summary reports of its activities to the UL President and relevant stakeholders each semester to ensure transparency and prompt action on disciplinary matters.
The committee comprises Mr. Andrew K. Dean, Faculty, as Chairperson; Cllr. Clara Cassell, UL Legal Affairs, Ex Officio; Amb. Felecia J.W. Dorbor, Student Affairs, Ex Officio; Ms. Janet U. Lolemeh, Staff Representative; Mr. Isaac Tulo Chea, Student Representative; Ms. Victoria D. Korgbay, Student Representative; and Ms. Bendu Kromah, At-large Representative.
The SDC was officially inaugurated on October 23, 2025, at the Fendall campus, and has already begun receiving complaints, investigating alleged violations, and making recommendations for action.
In an interview with UL Relations on October 25, 2025, Chair Mr. Andrew Dean pledged that the committee would operate with the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and impartiality. He expressed gratitude to Dr. Maparyan for the appointment, calling it both an honor and a responsibility.
“I feel very pleased and honored as a young man to be selected to chair the SDC. It is something I take great pride in,” Dean said. He assured that all proceedings would follow due process, ensuring fairness, confidentiality, and respect for the rights of all parties involved.
Dean also encouraged students to uphold the university’s core values and mission, reminding them of UL’s motto, “Lux in Tenebri” or “Light in Darkness,” and the importance of ethical behavior in fostering a positive campus environment.
Beyond investigating misconduct, the SDC plans to engage students through awareness initiatives, including town hall meetings, to promote ethical behavior and adherence to institutional rules. “We don’t only take pleasure in investigating and holding students accountable for misconduct, but we are also focused on improving students’ actions and ensuring a safe environment for teaching and learning,” Dean explained.
The committee will handle cases involving acts of hooliganism, vandalism, violence, hostile or disrespectful behavior toward university authorities, circulation of false or defamatory publications, destruction of property, strikes, boycotts, and demonstrations.
Penalties for violations of the Student Handbook vary depending on severity and may include warnings, suspension, or expulsion. The committee’s work is seen as a critical component in maintaining discipline and a conducive academic environment at UL.
Dr. Maparyan has indicated that the SDC is part of her broader reform agenda focused on achieving five key objectives: education, efficiency, effectiveness, excellence, and ethics. By reinforcing accountability and ethical conduct among students, the administration aims to foster a safer, more productive learning environment.
The establishment of the SDC reflects UL’s commitment to institutional discipline, ethical conduct, and the creation of a learning atmosphere that aligns with national and international standards of higher education.
Through the committee’s proactive oversight and outreach initiatives, UL seeks not only to address misconduct but also to nurture responsible, law-abiding graduates capable of contributing positively to society.
With the SDC now operational, UL’s leadership emphasizes that both students and staff have a shared responsibility in upholding the integrity and values of the institution, ensuring that the university remains a beacon of academic excellence in Liberia.
