Dr. Kona-Facia Freeman-Nepay
Kona Facia Freeman-Nepay, Ed.D., Maîtrise, Licence, BA, DSEF
Dr. Kona Facia Freeman-Nepay is an internationally trained education leader whose academic formation and professional influence span Africa, Europe, and North America. As Deputy Chancellor of Harvest Intercontinental American University (HIAU), she provides strategic leadership for the university’s academic vision, global partnerships, and institutional development. Her work strengthens HIAU’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and the preparation of globally competent servant‑leaders.
A multilingual scholar and seasoned administrator, Dr. Freeman-Nepay brings more than thirty years of experience in international education systems, school leadership, and academic program development. She previously served as Chair and Lead Founding Member of HIAU, guiding the establishment of its governance structure, academic identity, and long‑term institutional trajectory. She also serves as a volunteer Adjunct Professor of French and Education at the university.
In her broader mandate work across the Harvest Intercontinental Church network, Dr. Freeman-Nepay endeavors to strengthen global education initiatives, mobilize diaspora expertise, and expand access to high‑quality learning opportunities for children and youth. As Leader of the Bishop Darlingston Johnson Education Mandate, she advances a vision of educational transformation grounded in innovation, equity, and faith‑centered leadership.
Beyond HIAU, Dr. Freeman Nepay is Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Baltimore International Academy, Inc., home to one of the most innovative multilingual immersion and International Baccalaureate school models in the United States.
Her academic credentials reflect rigorous preparation across three continents:
- Diplôme Supérieur d’Études Françaises, University of Abidjan
- Bachelor’s in French and Public Administration, University of Liberia
- Licence de Sciences du Langage, Université de Franche‑Comté
- Maîtrise de Français Langue Étrangère, Université de Franche‑Comté
- Executive Doctorate in Global Education, University of Southern California
Her teaching and leadership career includes service at the University of Liberia, Prince George’s Community College, Montgomery Community College, and Prince George’s County Public Schools, where she held roles as French Immersion Coordinator, Assistant Principal, and Principal.
Dr. Freeman-Nepay’s contributions to education have been recognized through numerous national and international awards, including:
- 2024 Chevalier des Palmes Académiques — Knight of the Order of Academic Palms, a national honor bestowed by the Government of France for significant contributions to education and culture
- 2022 AATF Outstanding Administrator Award — awarded by the American Association of Teachers of French (AATF)
- 2021–2022 MSDE Outstanding Local Leadership Award in Gifted and Talented Education — presented by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE)
- 2018 RICKS Institute Alumnae Association Excellence in Education Award
- 2015 Liberian Award for Excellence in Education
- 2010–2011 Prince George’s County Public Schools Outstanding Educator Award
- 1999 City of Bowie Excellence in Education Award
