PHOTO: AME Zion University President, Dr. Emmanuel F. Johnson flanked by Missionary Cynthia A. Dogbe at Awards Ceremony in USA
The African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church worldwide concluded its 52nd General Conference with Liberia’s Cleric and President of the AME Zion University walking away with the prestigious Bishop James Varick Golden Awards for outstanding stewardship.
Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Johnson I was preferred to over 1000 clergy persons in the Western West Episcopal District of the denomination that comprises of Ghana, Togo, Ivory Cost and Liberia for such an award since the church was established in 1875.
His leadership at the AME Zion University in Monrovia inherited overwhelming challenges including more than three years of salary arrears, financial malpractices and accountability issues, after the death of his predecessor, Benjamin Lartey in 2023. As the result of his leadership, the university, which is branded as Criminal Justice educational hub, is reportedly recovering.
Johnson’s first year in service was characterized by admirations from the Board of Trustees, faculty and staff; highlighting the launch of a graduate school, collaborations with foreign universities including his alma mater University of Sierra Leone, sustainability and revenue diversification plan among others.
Prior to his ascendency to the Office of president for the university, Johnson earned Doctor of Philosophy in Religion and Christian Stewardship from the Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone.
He has served the AME Zion Church in Liberia for more than two decades as pastor and other positions of Christian leadership in and out of his denomination.