Prof. Mugendi is the Principal, Embu University College (A Constituent College of the University of Nairobi). He holds a Post- Doctoral Fellowship, African Career Award (Rockefeller Foundation), PhD in Agroforestry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA, Master of Science in Crop Science, University of Nairobi and Bachelor of Science (BSc) Forestry, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya.

In the past Prof. Mugendi has held many senior positions in Kenyatta University and he has chaired and been a member to several Committees and Boards at Kenyatta University, professional associations and in other organizations.

Currently he is also the Chairman, Board of Trustees, Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI), Chairman, Board of Governors, Kirege Secondary School, Chuka, Tharaka Nithi County and the Environmental Impact Assessment/Audit Lead Expert. He brings to the Board a wide administrative and leadership experience gained while serving in diverse capacities at various organizations.