Garden City University (GCU) has appointed Shannan Akosua Magee, a Fulbright Scholar and experienced educationist, as its Director of Admissions and International Recruitment to strengthen student recruitment and expand access to quality higher education.

Magee brings extensive experience in university admissions, educational leadership and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education, having worked in both Ghana and the United States.

Her appointment is expected to support the university’s efforts to strengthen its national and international presence, deepen partnerships with secondary schools and improve engagement with prospective students and their families.

The Vice-Chancellor of GCU, Professor Eric K. Ofori, said the appointment reflected the university’s commitment to building stronger pathways into higher education and attracting talented students from diverse backgrounds.

“Admissions is not simply about increasing student numbers; it is about identifying potential, creating opportunities and ensuring that young people are adequately prepared to succeed in higher education. Ms Magee brings the experience and vision to help us strengthen our engagement with schools and students, both locally and internationally,” he said.

Before joining GCU, Ms Magee served as Director of Admissions at Academic City University, where she contributed to efforts to widen access to higher education and support students' transition from secondary school to university.

She also played a role in identifying academically talented but financially disadvantaged students for scholarship opportunities. Her work contributed to the institution’s Presidential Scholarship Programme, through which more than US$1 million in scholarships has been awarded to deserving students.

Beyond university admissions, Magee served as Co-Director of the Verizon Innovative Learning STEM Achievers Programme at Howard University in Washington, D.C. The initiative provides young people from underserved communities with opportunities to explore emerging technologies, entrepreneurship and practical STEM education.

In Ghana, she established the Girls Institute of Science and Technology (GIST) in 2003 to introduce young people, particularly girls, to science and technology through innovative educational experiences.

Her professional experience also includes serving as a teacher, school administrator and principal in the United States, giving her a broad understanding of student development, academic leadership and institutional management.

Magee studied Afro-American Studies and Secondary Education at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She subsequently obtained an Education Specialist qualification in Educational Administration and Leadership and is currently pursuing doctoral studies at the Institute of African Studies, University of Ghana.

Speaking about her new role, Magee said she looked forward to working with the university’s leadership, faculty, secondary schools and other educational partners to create more opportunities for prospective students.

“My goal is to help build a more accessible and responsive admissions system that identifies talented students, strengthens relationships with schools and guides young people and their families in making informed decisions about higher education. I also look forward to expanding GCU’s international reach and developing partnerships that create meaningful opportunities for students,” she said.

At GCU, her priorities will include improving admissions processes, strengthening relationships with Senior High Schools (SHSs), expanding international recruitment and introducing more coordinated approaches to student engagement and enrolment management.