Dr. Margee Ensign – USA

Dr. Margee Ensign is an accomplished academic leader and scholar, currently serving as the President of the American University in Bulgaria (AUBG) since September 2023. Her extensive background includes serving as the president of the United States International University-Africa (USIU-A) and leadership roles at Dickinson College in the United States and the American University of Nigeria (AUN). Throughout her career, Ensign has been recognized for her commitment to education, community engagement, and her advocacy for democracy and ethical leadership.

Born in Los Angeles, California, in 1954, Ensign’s academic journey began with a BA in Peace Studies and International Relations from New College of Florida, followed by a Ph.D. in International Political Economy from the University of Maryland. Her career has spanned various prestigious roles, including Assistant Professor of Politics and Economy at Columbia University, Visiting Professor and Director of the Development Studies Program at American University, and Associate Professor and Director at Tulane University’s Institute for International Development.

Ensign’s work at AUN is particularly noteworthy for her leadership of the Adamawa Peace Initiative, which played a significant role in promoting peace and countering Boko Haram in Northeast Nigeria through education and humanitarian efforts. Her scholarly contributions include several books and articles on topics such as development, genocide, and democracy, reflecting her deep engagement with issues of global importance.

As President of AUBG, Ensign aims to further the university’s mission of educating democratic citizens and preparing leaders to address the changing needs of the world. Her vision includes enhancing the university’s role in the region and beyond through initiatives like the Center for Information, Democracy, and Citizenship, focusing on critical issues like disinformation and the responsibilities of democratic citizenship.

Dr. Ensign’s work emphasizes the importance of liberal arts education in fostering critical thinking, ethical leadership, and social change, making her a prominent figure in the global academic community