USIU Vice Chancellor resigns, takes up new role in Bulgaria

By Peter Ochieng

Dr. Margee Ensign is no longer the Vice Chancellor (VC), United States International University (USIU)-Africa.

University Council chair Kris Senanu in a statement on Monday, said Ensign resigned due to health-related issues, occassioned by her stay in Kenya's capital, Nairobi.

“Ensign has been faced with personal medical challenges related to the altitude in Nairobi and her doctors have advised her that she cannot live and work here,” Senanu said.

Ensign has been at the helm of USIU-Africa for a year, having been appointed VC in 2022.

Hours after her resignation had been made public, her new appointment in Bulgaria was confirmed.

She is now the president, American University in Bulgaria (AUBG).

"We are excited to announce that Dr. Margee Ensign is appointed as the new president, American University in Bulgaria. With a remarkable journey of leadership, from Dickinson College to the American University of Nigeria and USIU-Africa, Dr. Ensign brings a wealth of experience to her new role," the University management said in a statement on Tuesday.

"Her inspiring leadership, fundraising prowess, and dedication to academic innovation are set to elevate AUBG's impact in the country and the region," added the statement.

She said she is honored to occupy the position.

“I am thrilled and honored to be the new president of AUBG at such an important time for the university and look forward to working with all the outstanding faculty, students, and staff to expand AUBG’s critical role in the country and region."

Her presidency will begin on September 1, 2023.