Early Beginnings

Suehn Industrial Mission was founded in 1912 by the Foreign Mission Board of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc., as a school and mission in western Liberia. Located in Bomi County, the institution was established at a time when missionary schools were helping expand access to education and vocational training across the country.

The school became known as Suehn Industrial Mission because it focused not only on classroom learning, but also on practical skills and vocational training. Students were taught academic subjects alongside skills that prepared them to become responsible citizens, community leaders, and productive members of society.

A Center of Learning and Leadership

For many years, Suehn Mission was one of Liberia’s respected boarding schools. Students came from different parts of the country to receive an education grounded in discipline, academic excellence, Christian values, and service to others.

Over the years, the institution helped shape the lives of many Liberians who later became educators, government officials, clergy, professionals, and community leaders. The school was known not only for educating students, but also for building character and leadership.

Suehn Mission also became an important part of life in Bomi County and the surrounding communities. For many families, the institution represented hope, opportunity, and a pathway to a better future through education.

Impact of the Civil War

Like many institutions in Liberia, Suehn Mission was deeply affected by the Liberian civil war, which began in 1989. In 1990, the worsening conflict forced the school to close its doors. During the war years, many of the campus buildings, dormitories, classrooms, and other facilities were badly damaged or destroyed.

The institution briefly reopened in early 1994 and operated for one academic year. However, renewed fighting once again forced the school to suspend operations.

The war left much of the campus in ruins and interrupted the education of countless students whose lives had been connected to the institution.

Efforts Toward Restoration

After the war, alumni, church leaders, supporters, and members of the Board began working to restore and rebuild Suehn Mission. Renovation and rehabilitation efforts started on parts of the campus, but the level of destruction meant that rebuilding would require significant support and resources.

Today, the Suehn Alumni Association continues to work with supporters and stakeholders to preserve the legacy of Suehn Mission and help restore the institution for future generations.

The story of Suehn Mission is ultimately one of resilience, faith, education, and hope. Despite years of hardship and destruction, the spirit of the institution continues to live on through its alumni and the many lives it has touched across Liberia.