Dr. Syrulwa L. Somah, an associate professor in the department of construction management and occupational safety and health at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University received the prestigious Liberia Image Award for Lifetime Achievement, Aug. 30, 2008, at the Bethesda Theatre in Bethesda, Md.

Under the "Embrace & Inspire Creativity in the Liberian Community to uplift its Global and Positive Image," Dr. Somah was selected by a committee for his continued commitment towards promoting Liberia's history and present-day achievements.

Dr. Somah received his bachelor of science degree in Occupational Safety and Health from the State University of New York in 1990; a master's of science in Liberal Studies from the Liberal College University of Oklahoma in Norman, Oklahoma. in 1999; and a Ph.D. in Policy Studies in Environmental and Occupational Health from the Union Institute and University in Cincinnati, Ohio in 1994.

Before coming to N.C. A&T, he has been employed by Guilford Technical College; College of Optometry; Cumberland Diagnostic and Treatment Center (New York Health and Hospital Corporations); Citywide Occupational Safety and Health (City of New York); J & M Contracting Services, CA; and Hall-Kimbrell, Inc., Missouri.

The Liberia Image Award (LIA) is an organization that was established by Stomper Productions Entertainment, Leisure Entertainment Group, Pearl of Africa, and AMP Worldwide Consultant to promote Liberia's culture and heritage by acknowledging and honoring the achievement of individuals, groups and organizations for their accomplishments through dedication made directly or indirectly to preserve the arts and cultures of Liberia. Its mission is to honor the innovative achievements and improvement of its people, their modernization, entrepreneurship, ideas, talents and business developments in the entertainment industry as well as in the Liberian community.