10/05/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Samuel Grimes Memorial Institute Alumni Association Celebrates 80 Years of Humanitarian Service in Liberia
Kakata, Liberia – May 10, 2026 — The Alumni Association of Samuel Grimes Memorial Institute proudly assembled to celebrate 80 years of humanitarian service in Liberia since the institution’s establishment on May 10, 1946.
The celebration brought together alumni, supporters, community members, and well-wishers to honor the enduring legacy of the institution and to renew calls for the full restoration of its academic programs following the devastating effects of the Liberian civil conflict.
During the gathering, the Alumni Association expressed profound appreciation to the Suff. Bishop Julian R. Johnson, Las Fidelas Matrons of Bethesda Temple Church USA, PAW, Inc., Executive Director Amb. Michael A. Johnson, and Bishop Dr. Leo M. Simpson for their unwavering support in helping to reawaken and revive the institution.
Attendees praised the transformation of the campus, noting with joy that the center is once again clean, active, and full of life.
Speaking on behalf of the Board and the Program Executive Committee, Executive Director Amb. Michael A. Johnson commended the success of the program and encouraged supporters to remain committed to the vision of the institution.
“Never Let the Fire Go Out,” he emphasized.
He further revealed that discussions are currently underway with the Board of Directors to approve the reopening of the academic program in addition to the ongoing substance addiction recovery program.
According to the Executive Director, if approved by the Board, the institution will reopen beginning with Nursery through 9th Grade, with one additional class to be added annually until the school reaches 12th Grade.
He added that his mission is to strengthen the efforts of the Board and sponsors in restoring the full institution, including:
Academic programs
Health services
College education
Humanitarian and recovery services for at-risk persons.
In his concluding remarks, Amb. Michael A. Johnson called upon all alumni, friends, supporters, and partners around the world to unite in rebuilding the noble institution through donations and active participation in its programs.
“Let all alumni and everyone who believes in what we are doing join hands with us to restore this noble institution,” he stated.
The celebration ended with renewed hope, unity, and commitment toward restoring the historic institution to its full glory as a center for education, humanitarian outreach, and community transformation in Liberia.
Congratulations to the Samuel Grimes Memorial Institute on 80 remarkable years of service! 🎊👏💐