Leah Marangu is a prominent Kenyan academic named the first female full professor in Kenya and East Africa in 1988.
She served as vice-chancellor of Africa Nazarene University from 1996 to 2017 and has held various leadership roles in educational bodies.
Marangu holds a Ph.D. in Home Economics from Iowa State University and has received numerous awards, including the Elder of the Order of the Burning Spear (EBS).
Education
Marangu’s educational journey began at Kaaga High School, where she laid the foundation for her future academic pursuits.
Following high school, she undertook nursing training, focusing on public health nursing and midwifery at Maua Methodist Hospital.
She then earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics from Olivet Nazarene University.
Her commitment to furthering her education led her to pursue two Master of Science degrees; one in Home Economics and Family Environment from Northern Illinois University, and another in Management & Family Environment from Iowa State University.
Marangu ultimately achieved her highest academic accolade by obtaining a Ph.D. in Home Economics from Iowa State University, solidifying her expertise and paving the way for her groundbreaking contributions to education in Kenya and East Africa.
First female full professor in East Africa
Marangu made history in 1988 when she was appointed as a full professor and chair of the Department of Home Economics at Kenyatta University, becoming the first woman in East Africa to achieve this status.
This milestone marked a significant breakthrough in the academic landscape of the region, as she paved the way for future generations of female scholars.
Marangu’s appointment was a testament to her dedication and contributions to education, which have had a lasting impact on both Kenyan and East African academia.
Early career
Marangu’s professional journey began in the healthcare sector after she completed her nursing training at Maua Methodist Hospital.
She worked in various hospitals, gaining valuable experience in public health nursing and midwifery.
However, her aspirations for higher education led her to the United States, where she pursued advanced degrees.
In the U.S., Marangu attended Olivet Nazarene University for her undergraduate studies and later moved on to Northern Illinois University and Iowa State University for her master’s and doctoral degrees.
Her time in these institutions not only enhanced her academic qualifications but also exposed her to diverse educational methodologies and research practices.
After earning her Ph.D. in Home Economics in 1975, she began teaching at several universities in the United States, where she honed her skills as an educator and researcher.
Later career
Upon returning to Kenya in 1977, Marangu joined Kenyatta University as an associate professor.
In 1988, she became the first woman in East Africa to be appointed a full professor when she was named chair of the Department of Home Economics.
Marangu’s influence extended beyond teaching; she was actively involved in curriculum development and educational reform initiatives at Kenyatta University.
In 1996, she took on the role of vice-chancellor at Africa Nazarene University, where she served until 2017.
During her tenure, she played a pivotal role in transforming the institution into a reputable center for higher learning.
Under her leadership, Africa Nazarene University expanded its academic programs, improved infrastructure, and enhanced its research capabilities.
Accolades and recognitions
In 2018, Marangu was awarded the Elder of the Order of the Burning Spear (EBS) by President Uhuru Kenyatta for her significant contributions to education in Kenya.
She has also been honored with the Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (MBS) and the Silver Star of Kenya (SSK) by former Presidents Daniel arap Moi and Mwai Kibaki, respectively.
Internationally, Marangu was recognized with the Women Leadership Award at the World Women Leadership Congress in Mumbai, India, and the Global Peace Family Strengthening Award during the Global Peace Convention in Kuala Lumpur.
She also received the Distinguished Alumni Award from Iowa State University and was named a Fulbright Scholar.
Marangu’s leadership and mentorship have earned her over 20 national and international awards, including the Maggie Sloan Crawford Role Model Award from Olivet Nazarene University.
