Rev. Dr. Yar Donlah Gonway-Gono has been named the President of the United Methodist University of Liberia. In her letter of appointment, the Resident Bishop of the United Methodist Church in Liberia, Bishop Samuel J. Quire, Jr. said her appointment takes immediate effect as of the date of the appointment which is dated June 2, 2021. “The current leadership at the University along with the out-going President has been urged to work with you for a smooth transition leading to your investiture,” the letter emphasized.

Prior to her appointment, Rev. Dr. Gono served as the CEO of Dakeaze Global Women Ministries Foundation and the First President Emeritus, Nimba County Community College. She holds a Ph.D. in Women's and Human Sexuality Studies with emphasis on Psychology, Moral Education, Ethics of Care and Responsibility from Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia. Born and raised in Flumpa Town, Nimba County, Liberia, Dr. Gono has extensive knowledge in cross-cultural and multicultural diversity, an interdisciplinary studies with proven expertise in scholarship. She was also instrumental in the establishment of the Nimba County Community College.

Dr. Gono also served in other missions and ministries of the United Methodist Church including Pastor of Discipleship, Recruitment of new members, and congregation development and retention at the Park Avenue United Methodist Church in the United States of America.

Rev. Dr. Yar Donlah Gonway-Gono replaces Dr. Albert B. Coleman who retired in March 2021. Her appointment brings to five the number of presidents for the United Methodist University of Liberia and she is the first female president for the institution. She was selected from among several candidates by the university’s search committee and affirmed by the Board of Directors. Though her appointment takes immediate effect, an investiture is being planned by the leadership of the United Methodist University of Liberia.