Liberian first lady on campus

Portland State will host First Lady of Liberia Rosie-Lee Antoinette Bryant as part of her weeklong visit to Oregon.

Bryant will be on campus today in the Smith Memorial Student Union Multicultural Center from 3 – 5 p.m. to discuss the value of education and to encourage college students to think about global issues.

Bryant, originally from Virginia, has traveled between the U.S. and Liberia throughout her life.

Liberia, recovering from warfare, is dramatically behind the Western world in terms of scientific capabilities. Bryant created the New Liberia Development Foundation and serves as president of the organization. Her efforts have been primarily concentrated on social and physical health conditions for women and children throughout the country.

Rosie-Lee Bryant’s husband, Gyude Bryant, is chairman of Liberia’s National Transitional Government (NTGL). The former president, Charles Taylor, was removed from office in an effort to bring about positive political change in the country. Liberian leaders, including Bryant and the first lady, are trying to institute an open election for the presidency involving the 18 established political parties.

The first lady has been working within the country for many years on behalf of the Liberian people to improve living conditions. Bryant’s efforts have been desperately needed after the devastating conflict that ultimately resulted in Taylor’s removal from office.

Bryant will visit multiple campuses during her visit in Oregon, including PSU and Pacific University, as well as various churches, community centers and Liberian families.