Iowa State University Distinguished Alumni: A Long Journey Begins with One Step

Leah Marangu was the first woman in East Africa to be named full professor, and the first woman to serve at the helm of a university in Kenya when she was named Vice-Chancellor (President) of Africa Nazarene University. She has been a tireless advocate for equitable opportunities for girls and women, and more than a dozen Kenyan women have received their doctorates through her support. She received her Masters of Science in Family Environment, and a doctorate in Home Economics Education in from Iowa State University. She has been honored with Silver Star of Kenya, a national honor presented by the President of Kenya, and the Iowa State University Alumni Award, the highest award given by the University to honor an alumni.