Learning and Leading in Liberia

Darric Dennis, alumnus of Dordt University’s Master of Education program, was recently named the president of the National Association of Liberia School Principals (NALSP), a role that reflects his deep commitment to educational leadership and growth.

Dennis’ Dordt education began with a simple conversation. “I first learned about Dordt through One Body One Hope, particularly through Aaron Baart on one of his trips to Liberia,” Dennis shares. “After my conversation with Aaron, I further researched the program. I was particularly motivated to enroll in the education technology track with an emphasis in curriculum and instruction because the duo has been my dream. I was excited that Dordt was offering the things I had long been interested in—technology and curriculum.”

As an international working professional, Dordt’s online format was key. “Because it is very flexible and easily adaptable, Dordt’s online program is an exceptional approach to creating a platform for all professional individuals to work and learn at the same time,” Dennis explains. “The professors’ level of flexibility to enable learners to succeed is unmatched.”

Dennis says the program's impact went beyond academics, equipping him with practical skills to bring into his work. “The truth is that every lesson taught had a deep connection to my everyday work,” he says. “For example, the technology component was not just an acquisition of academic knowledge but a reality I implemented at the school where I work, especially during the COVID pandemic.”

Dr. Dave Mulder, department chair and professor of education at Dordt taught several courses Dennis took throughout his time in Dordt’s M.Ed. program. “I had the privilege of working closely with Dennis throughout the program,” he says. “He is a deep thinker and asks great questions. Throughout his work in the program, he demonstrated an interest in translating theory into practice, which he does very well.”

That integration of theory and practice has paid off. “Through the knowledge and practical approach of the program, I even won the Digital Principal award with E.L. Africa Magazine USA in 2021,” Dennis adds.

For Dennis, the Dordt experience was also impactful on a personal level. “Being educated throughout Liberia and Africa, then migrating to a whole different culture of learning, interaction, writing, etc., there were challenging moments,” he recalls. “Cultural issues remain a major challenge in any gathering, let alone in the classroom or work environment. Although I was the only Black or African individual among my colleagues, the environment made it evident that in Christ, there are no Jews, Gentiles, whites, or blacks.”

“The group assignments, peer learning, and other aspects of the program connected us as students as if we had known one another for such a long time,” he adds.

That, according to Mulder, is exactly what the program aims to do. “Our whole program is designed to be real work, for real people, to meet real needs,” explains Mulder. “The courses are interactive, engaging experiences where students practice interdependence and communal learning.”

As president of NALSP, Dennis is focused on strengthening school leadership and advancing education in Liberia. In this role, Dennis plans to strengthen partnerships with the Liberian government and education stakeholders to promote effective school administration and uphold national education standards. He also aims to advocate for the professional and economic development of members through scholarships, research, training, and educational events. “The association operates under four pillars: Professional Development, Advocacy, Partnership, and Research. PDAPR. My work is to ensure that these pillars remain active in all NALSP’s operations,” says Dennis.

Dennis’ Dordt education continues to fuel his passion for combining technology and education as he leads NALSP toward meaningful change. He’s currently working on a partnership to implement a school management system in 50 schools in Liberia’s capital, with plans to expand nationwide. “My tech training with Dr. Mulder has made my contributions in this area very effective,” explains Dennis. “People often ask where I get these insights because it seems I have a background in technology. That background is Dordt University.”

In addition to his role with NALSP, Dennis serves as Supervising Principal and Educational Director of the Vine School System of Christ (VSSC), and Executive Director of the Dennis Institute of Professional Studies (DIPS). He is also a board member of E.L. Africa Magazine USA, and West African Examinations Council (WAEC).