In a significant leadership transition, the Liberia Medical and Dental Council (LMDC) has elected Dr. Ayun K. Cassell III, FICS, FLCS, FACS, as its new Chairperson during its July 2025 Council meeting. Theophilus Tamba Fayiah was also re-elected to serve a second term as Co-chair of the Council.
Dr. Cassell replaces Dr. Benetta Collins-Andrews, who completed her term and chose not to seek re-election. Dr. Collins-Andrews leaves behind a legacy of institutional reform, strengthened governance, and a renewed focus on regulatory excellence that has elevated LMDC’s presence across Liberia’s health sector. Her tenure is widely credited with transforming the Council into a more responsive and proactive regulator of medical and dental practice in the country.
“Dr. Collins-Andrews served with distinction, leading transformational reforms that strengthened LMDC’s institutional capacity and its impact across Liberia’s healthcare system,” a statement from the Council noted.
Dr. Cassell, no stranger to LMDC operations, has a rich history of service with the Council. As an intern, he led a team in infection prevention and control (IPC) monitoring and clinical supervision at multiple hospitals. His election marks a return to the Council’s leadership with a fresh perspective, supported by over 12 years of medical practice and a solid track record in healthcare regulation.
Currently serving as Assistant Professor of Urology and Consultant Urologist at the John F. Kennedy Medical Center, Dr. Cassell is a respected Urological Surgeon and former President of the Liberia Medical and Dental Association. He also serves under the Liberia College of Physicians and Surgeons, where he is recognized as a Fellow in the Faculty of Surgery.
Dr. Cassell’s clinical and academic work is heavily focused on urogenital malignancies, such as prostate, bladder, kidney, and penile cancers. His academic resume includes over 45 peer-reviewed publications, more than 100 manuscript reviews, and three academic editorials. He is a distinguished member and fellow of several international professional organizations, including:
American College of Surgeons International College of Surgeons American Urological Association Faculty of Surgical Trainers, Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh
He received his Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the A.M. Dogliotti College of Medicine, and earned his Fellowship in Surgery through the Liberia College of Physicians and Surgeons. He completed his Urology Fellowship at Hôpital Général Idrissa Pouye in Dakar, Senegal, and holds multiple international certifications in surgical and urological disciplines.
In 2021, Dr. Cassell and his late wife, Lydia Olasupo, co-founded UROCARE, a specialized urology clinic serving the Liberian population — a venture that has expanded access to high-quality urological services nationwide.
Outside of clinical work, Dr. Cassell is a dedicated educator and community servant, having taught at United Methodist University, African Methodist Episcopal Zion University, and volunteered with the Liberia National Red Cross Society.
The LMDC expressed confidence in the new leadership, stating:
“Dr. Ayun K. Cassell III brings not just technical expertise, but a bold vision rooted in excellence, innovation, and service to humanity. His leadership is expected to usher in a new era of regulatory effectiveness and sector-wide collaboration.”
Both Dr. Cassell and Co-chair Theophilus Tamba Fayiah will be officially inducted on Friday, July 18, 2025, at the John F. Kennedy Ground Round.
As LMDC enters this new chapter, the Council extends its heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Collins-Andrews for her devoted service and warmly welcomes Dr. Cassell to lead the charge in strengthening medical and dental regulation across Liberia.
