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Dr. Jane Irungu, a trailblazing Kenyan-American educator and administrator, has announced her retirement after an illustrious career spanning over four decades.
Her service culminated in a prestigious recognition from the White House, a salute to her significant contributions to higher education.
Dr. Jane Irungu
Dr Jane Irungu's Roots
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Born and raised in Kenya, Irungu's educational journey began in a village in Central Kenya where she became the first female to graduate from high school and later, the first to attend and graduate from university, having obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Education from Kenyatta University.
Her passion for education led her to become a high school teacher at Kianderi Girls High School, Kikuyu Township High School, St Francis Girls High School-Mangu’, Karima Boys Secondary School, Muruguru Girls Secondary School, and principal at Ithekahuno High School, before relocating to the United States in 1997.
She earned her master's and doctorate degrees while teaching African Studies and Swahili at the University of Kansas.
Irungu's career trajectory saw her in various administrative roles at institutions such as the University of Oregon and the University of Oklahoma.
Dr. Jane Irungu
In 2023, she joined Utah State University (USU) as Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
At USU, she championed initiatives that fostered an inclusive campus environment, ensuring all students felt valued and supported.
White House Recognition
In January 2025, Dr. Irungu received a personal letter from then-President Joe Biden, congratulating her on her retirement.
In his message, President Biden praised her career and expressed hope that she would continue to serve her community in the next chapter of her life.
His letter acknowledged the tireless work she had done to create inclusive educational opportunities for all.
I hope you take pride in everything you accomplished throughout your career. As you embark on this next chapter of life, I encourage you to seek out opportunities to serve your community and our great Nation.
Dr Jane Irungu's White House recognition by former President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris
Vice President Kamala Harris also extended her personal congratulations, noting Dr. Irungu’s immense contributions to advancing equity and opportunity in education.
Harris recalled the wise words of her own mother, urging Dr. Irungu to continue paving the way for future generations.
You may be the first to do many things, but make sure you’re not the last. I am grateful for your tireless efforts to advance equity, expand opportunity, and empower the next generation.
Reflections on Retirement
In a heartfelt message shared on LinkedIn, Irungu expressed gratitude for the relationships and experiences that defined her career.
"I am forever grateful and deeply humbled by this journey," she wrote, emphasising the importance of mentorship and community in her professional life.
As she transitions into retirement, she plans to focus on mentoring the next generation of leaders and continuing her advocacy for diversity and inclusion in education.