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Fendall, Liberia, June 17, 2026 – The University of Liberia’s Amos C. Sawyer (ACS) College of Social Sciences and Humanities recently recognized the contributions of a mother and son – a prominent institutional supporter and a pioneering educator whose work helped shape the university’s development across generations – during a ceremony marking the dedication of newly renovated faculty and administrative facilities at its Fendall campus.
A portrait of the late Prof. Agnes vonBallmoos is being presented to her son, Mr. vonBallmoos
The honorees were National Social Security and Welfare Corporation (NASSCORP) Director General Dewitt vonBallmoos and his late mother, Prof. Agnes vonBallmoos, who were acknowledged for their respective contributions to the university.
College officials said vonBallmoos was honored for helping secure support that contributed to improvements at the institution, including the renovation of the faculty lounge and dean’s office dedicated during the June 5 ceremony.
A certificate of honor presented to vonBallmoos cited his “kindness and investment in education,” saying his support has helped strengthen opportunities for students and faculty.
The college said Prof. vonBallmoos was recognized for her lasting contributions to academia and music, including her role in establishing the university’s music program.
According to the college, she taught music at the University of Liberia from 1961 to 1990 and helped preserve Liberian folk music through the collection, transcription and arrangement of traditional songs from communities across the country.
UL’s A.C.S. College students read the certificate of honor
Before her death on March 29, 2000, in London, United Kingdom, the college said she was an alumna of the University of Liberia and earned a law degree in 1989 from the Louis Arthur Grimes School of Law. It described her as both a music professor and a lawyer who worked to preserve Liberian folk music by collecting and transcribing songs from different communities, as well as composing original arrangements.
“Under her distinguished leadership, the UL Choir gained international attention and recognition for its splendid performances,” the college said.
In remarks during the event, Dr. Josephus Gray, Dean of the A.C.S. College, said Mr. vonBallmoos was invited to the results of NASSCORP’s support, including recent improvements to the college. Dr. Gray said Mr. vonBallmoos had provided US$5,000, which he said helped enhance the facility.
Responding, Mr. vonBallmoos – an alumnus of the University of Liberia – pledged continued support. He said he would act whenever requested.
Sen. Numene T.H. Bartekwa, Chair of the University of Liberia Board of Trustees, said he was encouraged by the university’s leadership and urged students to represent the institution positively.
(L-R) Mr. vonBallmoos receives certificate of honor from UL Vice President Dr. Agnes Reeves-Taylor
“I want to thank all of you for your willingness to acquire education through our institution,” said Sen. Bartekwa.
Dr. Agnes Reeves Taylor, Vice President for Academic Affairs, said the university appreciated NASSCORP for its assistance. She also commended the students and the college for honoring Prof. vonBallmoos through a portrait named in her memory.
“It is very important that we continue this kind of process, where we will give the crowns. She’s dead now, but her son is here to … receive this kind of award,” said Dr. Reeves-Taylor.
She also challenged students to focus on producing “great things” and to ensure that their association with the university is not marred by controversy.
