Faith Nyasuguta
Dr. Peter Ndiang’ui’s life journey is a testament to resilience, vision, and unwavering commitment to education and community development. From his humble beginnings in Nyeri, Kenya, to becoming an internationally recognized educator and leader, Peter has blazed a trail that continues to inspire.
Kenyan Roots & Early Career
Born and raised on the scenic slopes of Mt. Kenya in Nyeri, Peter’s upbringing instilled in him the values of hard work and service. He pursued his education locally before enrolling at Kenyatta University in Nairobi, where he graduated with a degree in Social Studies. His passion for education drove him to teach Social Studies in various Kenyan schools, impacting generations of students.
Peter’s leadership capabilities became evident when he served as Chair of the Kenya Geography Teachers’ Association, a role in which he championed excellence and innovation in teaching. His dedication culminated in a 12-year tenure as Dean of Students at St. Mary’s School Nairobi, where he not only managed student affairs but also mentored future leaders.
Global Leap
In 1997, Peter’s career took an international turn when he was hired as an expatriate teacher at Atlanta International School. Shortly after, he relocated to Fort Myers, Florida, marking a significant milestone as the first Black teacher in 40 years at the prestigious Canterbury School of Fort Myers. This role symbolized both a personal achievement and a breaking of racial barriers in private education.
Eager to expand his impact, Peter pursued advanced studies, earning a doctorate in 2013 from Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU). Today, he serves as an Assistant Professor in FGCU’s College of Education, where he coordinates the Child and Youth Studies (CYS) Program. His courses, which include International Comparative Education, Youth and Community Leadership, and Environmental Sustainability, reflect his commitment to preparing future educators and leaders.
Beyond teaching, Peter is a pivotal figure at FGCU, serving on the Faculty Senate, leading the College of Education’s Diversity & Inclusion Committee, and advising the African Students Association. His research delves into pressing issues such as the internationalization of education, community engagement, immigration, and leadership.
A staunch advocate for global education, Peter co-founded the Aramid Consortium alongside Jeanette Dials of Mariano Marcos State University in the Philippines and other esteemed academics, including Dr. Samson Ondigi and Dr. Lucy Mbirianjau from Kenyatta University. This initiative has grown into an international conference uniting universities from four continents, fostering collaboration, innovation, and cultural exchange.
Peter’s global influence extends to his role as Executive Director of the Global One Voice Consortium, a platform promoting international dialogue and cooperation. He also holds leadership positions in organizations like the African Diaspora for Good Governance (ADGG) and the International Council of Educational Professionals (ICEP), where he serves as a board member.
Community Service & Recognition
Peter’s contributions are not limited to academia. In Southwest Florida, he is deeply involved in promoting equity and inclusion, serving on committees such as the Lee County School District’s Equity and Diversity Advisory Committee and the City of Fort Myers Mayor’s Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Committee, which he founded. He is also a board member of the Lee County Bar Association’s Diversity Committee and the creator of the SW Florida Socrates Cafe, a forum for community dialogue.
His efforts have earned him numerous accolades, including the Lighthouse Award for teaching excellence, the World Harmony Run Award, and the Educator of the Year Award. In 2021, he was honored with the Keeper of the Dream Award for exemplifying the values of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This year, he was named FGCU Student Success Champion and participated in the UN General Assembly’s SDG Action Weekend to discuss transformative education.
Deep Ties To Kenya
Despite his international success, Peter has remained closely connected to his roots in Kenya. In 2015, he was appointed Honorary Ambassador of Nyeri County, a role he continues to hold under Governor Mutahi Kahiga. Through this position, he has spearheaded projects such as the Ndiai Leadership Academy, which provides tuition and mentorship to over 30 high school students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
As a patron of Mathakwa-ini Primary School in Nyeri, Peter has facilitated the establishment of a computer lab, equipping students with critical digital skills. His commitment to education and development earned him the Global Impact Award at the ICEP Fall 2023 Conference.
Family & Legacy
Peter’s achievements are complemented by the support of his family. His wife, Priscilla, a Nurse Practitioner with Lee Physicians Group, shares his dedication to community service. Together, they have built a legacy of giving back, both in Kenya and the United States.
Dr. Peter Ndiang’ui’s journey from Nyeri to global prominence exemplifies the power of education and service. His work continues to bridge continents, empower communities, and inspire future generations, making him a true Kenyan trailblazer on the world stage.
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