Bright future A new leader for NMMU - Old faithfuls - Alumni Relations
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Bright future Old faithfuls Alumni
A new leader Reunite with those Find your old
for NMMU who never left friends all over
Page 3 Pages 4 - 5 the world Pages 12 - 15
Staying Message from NMMU
connected
Welcome to Nelson Mandela
Metropolitan University’s third
Alumni Relations Office
edition of Routes. Yes, we’re
Alumni are often referred to as the only SA and international chapters. Alumni
that young but know that
many of you have connections “permanent stakeholder” of a university. are involved in the NMMU Vision
stretching back as many as Management, staff and external 2020 strategic planning process and
four decades, like the students- stakeholders change, but alumni remain participated in the Higher Education
turned-academics who have connected for life. Whether or not you Quality Committee audit of NMMU.
never left us. Or, the PR and have a great affinity toward your alma Having secured financial support
photographic graduates whose
mater, there will always be a connection from Council, we are able to increase
very jobs ensure they remain
in a database, on a CV, in a picture or a our newsletter’s print run, to update
in touch with each other and
often their alma mater too. certificate proudly displayed on a wall. our databases, develop marketing and
We know that NMMU has The greatest of all these connections brand material, increase the number of
a bright future. We’ve a new are the experiences - the friendships, relationship-building events and kick-
leader and a new focus. Our knowledge and skills gained during your start projects to add value for NMMU.
student numbers are growing time at university. Nationally, our vision for alumni
(now 24 000, of whom about
The Alumni Relations Office at relations and projects has also been
10 per cent are international
NMMU is in its infancy, but we want recognised. NMMU is chairing the
students), along with our
research and commitment to to get the relationship principles right. first elected executive of the Southern
serve society. Alumni must continue to contribute in African Higher Education Alumni
We consider you, as one of the development of an even greater Consortium and will host the 2009 AGM
our 60 000 alumni, to be part of NMMU so that we can all benefit Paul Geswindt and conference. We need alumni who
this bright future. from our relationship. As alumni we are interested in building a great NMMU
Routes editor: Debbie Derry
must be proud of the achievements of Another alumni project, the University alumni network locally and globally to
our alma mater and our alma mater Shop, continues to be a great brand come forward and share their support.
must celebrate and benefit from the promotion tool with increased sales and Your ideas and contributions are always
Contact us achievements of alumni.
We have an alumni base operating
our Student Alumni Society is growing
its numbers and projects. Internally, we
welcome. Feel free to contact me.
May you all continue to prosper and
from the ABSA Alumni Centre on North are forming partnerships with academic be great NMMU ambassadors.
Campus in Port Elizabeth. The office departments, the Office for International Warm regards
Santosh
deals with all sorts of alumni enquiries Education, the NMMU Sport Bureau and
Ramadu
including information updates, academic the NMMU Trust.
is NMMU’s
new Alumni records, postgraduate studies and even We have introduced a career portal
Relations venue bookings. With more than to help you find that perfect job. We Paul
Officer. 60 000 alumni, there is much to be have set up chapters in East London paul.geswindt@nmmu.ac.za or
done. and London and are working on other +27 41 504 2162
We want to hear from you!
Postal: Alumni Relations Office
Marketing and Corporate Relations E-mail: alumni@nmmu.ac.za
PO Box 77000
Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Website:
University www.nmmu.ac.za/alumni
Port Elizabeth Tel: +27 (0) 41 504 3935
6031
Dates to diarise
February: PE alumni event
March: George & Cape Town alumni events
15 - 24 April: Graduation 2009 dates – welcoming of new alumni
27 May: Alumni & Convocation AGM
June: Johannesburg alumni event
July: London alumni event
August: East London alumni event
November: Alumni executive breakfast
The exact dates for the gatherings will be advertised on the
FOND FAREWELL … NMMU Alumni Association president Randall Jonas wishes
alumni website and in local media closer to the time. alumni stalwart Beverley Erickson well after 20 years of service on the alumni
executive committee. Bev (NDip PR 1986) is the electronic communication
manager at NMMU.
2 Connected to you
Meet the man at the top
Swartz’ arrival ushers in a new era
Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University His desire to make a difference was
has a new leader whose drive, values and made clear during his inaugural speech
his commitment to transformation have when he highlighted the need to bring
already made a positive impact within, and into focus the role of the university in
well beyond the university. empowering, through education, poorer
Prof Derrick Swartz, 48, who was and marginalised communities to gain
inaugurated as the new vice-chancellor in access to higher education, and giving
April, has bought to the university a fresh high quality education to students from
impetus and new direction. His arrival also all walks of all life wishing to build their
effectively ends the merger period when dreams at NMMU.
the former University of Port Elizabeth, PE “I am hopeful that we will hold
Technikon and the Port Elizabeth campus ourselves to the promise of truly serving
of Vista were brought together to form the all our people to the best of our abilities,
new NMMU in 2005. so that they can see their hopes, their
dreams and their finest aspirations
Prof Swartz at a glance
realised in what we do,” said Prof Swartz.
Background: Originally from Port
His appointment has been well
Elizabeth where he was a high school
received, with everyone from the
teacher, a community activist and
province’s former premier to his
civil society leader during the 1980s,
colleagues in higher education
until he went into exile in the United
applauding the solid values, foresight
Kingdom in 1987.
and experience he brings to the role of
Qualifications: BA degree from
leading NMMU into a new era. NMMU Vice-Chancellor Prof Derrick Swartz.
the University of the Western Cape,
It’s a hands-on approach that has
MA and PhD degrees in sociology
seen him actively seek out the opinion and transformation objectives.
from Essex University; and in 2008
he received an Honorary Doctorate
of others, within and outside of the “I am hopeful that we During his first year he has been
in Human Rights Law from Essex
university, in order to get a better will hold ourselves to the involved in a number of initiatives
University;
idea for plotting the way forward for
promise of truly serving to this end, including round-table
NMMU. discussions with business and civic
Career: Joined University of Fort
This process has now been
all our people to the best leaders, supporting local arts and
Hare in 1995 and started the Fort
Hare Institute of Government turning
formalised into Vision 2020, a project of our abilities …” culture, introducing a new Public
to plot the long-term sustainability of Lectures series, the formation of a
it into a leading public management
NMMU (see page 9). new Institute for the Study of Non-
institute. He secured major funding
At his inauguration Prof Swartz within the university benefits those living Racialism and Democracy, embarking
for the university. He rose through
highlighted his hopes of improving and working beyond its gates. on a new fundraising drive for the
the ranks to become Vice-Chancellor
research, elevating the status of Other challenges included defining university and supporting students and
in 1999 and served in that capacity
teaching and of expanding community NMMU’s academic purpose, its staff in making NMMU the institution of
until 2007.
engagement so that what is achieved sustainability, its social responsiveness first choice.
Message from the VC
Greetings to all our alumni! It gives me great members. We offer cutting edge qualifications right makes a difference, no matter how modest you might
pleasure to invite you to read Routes, Nelson across the knowledge spectrum – from classical perceive this to be. The great philanthropic societies
Mandela Metropolitan University’s newsletter training in humanities and arts, music and design, of America – such as the Rockefeller, Ford and
dedicated to our many alumni throughout the world. architecture and computer science, pharmacy and Carnegie Foundations who today support millions of
NMMU is about making a difference; making nursing, business studies, tourism and engineering students in that country to gain university education
a difference in the lives of all our diverse sciences – to be a truly comprehensive university. – all started with a “giving back” campaign led by
communities and individuals who want to build a We aim at giving our students the highest quality John Rockefeller, Henry Ford and Andrew Carnegie.
better world. Our core business is education – the education to help them to become full and effective You can begin our very own philanthropic tradition
production and distribution of knowledge through citizens in the world of tomorrow. at NMMU today.
teaching, research and engagement – with the aim We call upon our alumni – those generations who
of improving the quality of life, contributing to the were supported by others before them – to plough Warm regards
economy and society, and self-actualisation; in back into NMMU; to give back in order to help the
other words, making a difference in your life. next generation. Through your contribution to our
Established in 2005, NMMU boasts six campuses Alumni Fund, you can make a huge difference
(five in Nelson Mandela Bay and one in George), in the life of someone, in fact, change his or her Derrick Swartz
over 24 000 students and well over 3 000 staff destiny forever. Remember that any contribution Vice-Chancellor
New beginnings 3
The students who never left ...
NMMU can’t be a bad place to
study or work if the feedback of
close to 40 academics, who stud-
ied at the former NMMU institu-
tions and with a service record
of more than 20 years with the
university, are still here today.
Here’s news from some of them:
Prof Janet Wesson (BCom Hons
Computer Science 1979; MCom 1981) is
now HoD Computer Science & Information OLD GUARD … Among those who studied and are still working at NMMU are (from left) Prof Chris Hoelsen, Prof
Frans Bezuidenhout, Dr Otto Terblanche, Theresa Hardman, Prof Derek du Preez, Prof Miemie Struwig, Prof Nico
Systems. Groenewald, Pierre de Wet and Prof Jannie Neethling.
Prof Wesson is “BPC”, since she studied
Computer Science prior to PCs and had to
submit her programmes using card readers.
Routes tracked down those who studied and are still working at
“We would go for coffee and come back NMMU, so that you might enjoy a blast from your academic past …
two hours later to see our results. Our current
students get frustrated if their Internet access
is slow! Also, I remember when male students wanting to know if we had a license to BSc Hons cum laude last year. “My member.
had to wear ties to write tests in the evening; manufacture and deal in diamonds! special memories are all my zoology “I think the most amazing thing has been
now we are lucky if they wear shoes!” students of the past 31 years and the the students, some of whom I am still in
Dr Hilda Thomas (MA French 1974) field excursions.” contact with even though they are spread
Prof Paul Webb (BSc Zoology Hons; HoD French, German and Classics. across the globe.”
MSc) is Director of the Faculty of Education’s “The first year I was a junior lecturer I Sue Petratos – Senior Lecturer
Research, Technology and Innovation Unit. had to invigilate at what is now Nelson Applied Informatics. Jonty Hansford (NDip Art and Design -
Prof Webb who started the Department Mandela Bay Art Museum. As I walked Sue well remembers the days when Graphic Design 1973) - Senior Lecturer in
of Science, Mathematics and Technology in one of the other invigilators told me to courses were offered in English and Photography.
Education (SMATE) well remembers working take a seat at a desk and make sure I was Afrikaans and when she was a young “I have dozens of funny and memorable
in Bird Street and the friendships he formed in the correct row. Unfortunately, I now do lecturer – just four years older than some moments from my almost 33 years here.
there. One friend, Dr Paddy Lynch, a retired that to younger lecturers myself.” of her students. “I got a wolf whistle on Many of the more colourful ones will,
professor from Australia marvelled at the my first day at work from a student who however, possibly get me into trouble
lifestyle. “Paul, you know, PE really is the
“I remember when was walking behind me. He spent the if I divulge them. But the annual ritual
friendly city! When I walk to Westees (in rest of the session with his face buried in of initiation of the first years and the
Western Road) at lunchtime many of the
male students had his hands.” subsequent presentation of a ‘token’ gift
young ladies smile and greet me. They are to wear ties to write to the then rector, SD van der Merwe will
so nice!” And he meant it. tests in the evening; Prof Jan Neethling – Physics. always remain with me.”
now we are lucky if Prof Neethling who is involved in nuclear
Prof Andre Venter (BSc, BSc(Hons), Prof Nico Groenewald (BSc 1969, MSc
they wear shoes.” research remembers being called “old
MSc, PhD) is an Associate Professor in side show” by his fellow student while 1971) – Professor in Mathematics.
Physics. doing his PhD because the then HoD of Prof Groenewald recalled the presence of
Prof Venter well remembers the fuss of his Prof Miemie Struwig – Director of the Physics often posed next to the electron Oom Sampie who was in charge of cleaning
“diamond-smuggling” PhD project. He had School of Management Sciences. microscope with him sitting behind the and maintenance at the Bird Street Campus
developed a system for growing thin diamond Prof Struwig remembers that Building instrument and looking through the in the 1970s. His stock response whenever
layers to be used primarily in electronic 35 opened during her time as a student. viewing screen. someone was looking for someone in the
applications. Soon after assembling the “We used to call it the Hypermarket as it Maths Department: “Man they don’t work in
growth reactor, diamond layers were was so far away from the other buildings “Man they don’t work the mornings and in the afternoons they’re
successfully deposited (grown) on silicon then.” in the mornings and not there.”
substrates. Prof Struwig who started her working in the afternoons
Prof Japie Engelbrecht – HoD
At the time, it was considered the first career at Vista University (today’s
they’re not there”
successful effort of its kind reported in South Missionvale Campus) as a junior lecturer, Physics.
Africa. Methane and hydrogen were used served on the SRC during the turbulent Theresa Hardman (BBldg Arts 1984, Young Japie joined the former UPE in
as the growth precursors. However, news early 1980s. “I remember the first time I BArch 1986, MArch, 1992) – Senior 1966 when there were only five subjects
that diamonds had been grown successfully entered floor 18 to have talks with the VC Lecturer in Architecture. from which to choose.
in a laboratory at the then UPE was as a student. It was quite a frightening Theresa started off as a part-time One of this favourite stories (though not in
grossly misinterpreted. The press release experience. I still laugh at it today – that I studio assistant and now, as a senior the Science Faculty) was that of a lecturer
accompanied a scanning electron microscope could be so scared of professors.” lecturer, is completing a DPhil – this after who forgot to zip his pants. As the class
photo of the diamond layer revealing a huge being told by a male colleague that she’d squirmed in their seats, the lecturer noticing
particle, which in actual fact were only a Dr Gideon Rossouw (PhD) Acting never get her master’s completed. their unrest commented: “Daar is ‘n lelike
millionth of a metre in size. head Zoology Department. “It’s weird that people who were my ding wat sy kop uitsteek hier in die klas”.
The diamond smuggling unit of the SA Zoology legend Dr Rossouw says he lecturers once are now my colleagues!” And then there were the philosophy
police, not realising the minute size of these has many fond memories of NMMU but said Theresa who married her student of science lectures during which one
particles, arrived at the lab the next morning his proudest was when his son obtained love, Mark, who is also an NMMU staff very boring lecturer told a weak joke.
4 Building relations
They’re still here today
Dr Gideon Rossouw Jonty Hansford Prof Paul Webb Prof Andre Venter Prof Janet Wesson
(from page 4)
Unbeknown to him some unknown Other alumni you’ll remember and who
prankster had written in white chalk “don’t have never left:
feed the lecturer”.
Danie Venter (BSc Hons 1984, MSc
Prof Derek du Preez – Director of the 2005) started at the former UPE in 1981
School of Environmental Sciences. and is now lecturing in the Department of
“When I first started at UPE it was as an Statistics.
MSc student. One PhD student was very
keen that I help her with what she was Prof Ilse Truter started as a BCom Prof Ilse Truter Prof Andrew Leitch
doing because she thought that I already student in 1983 and has since acquired
had a PhD – my initials are DR and she seven degrees. She is in the Pharmacy Prof Iona Wannenburg (Nursing) here in 1978 and working in 1982. I now
thought I was Dr Du Preez. She was not Department. went through the ranks from have my own UPE/NMMU barcode on
very happy to find out that she was being lecturer through to full professor, adding my arm!”
helped (very successfully) by someone Dr Otto Terblanche (MA 1974, DPhil that this particular period had been her
junior to her!” 1993) started out as a history lecturer “happiest” years at the university. Dr Lynn Slogrove, who is a senior
at the old UPE in 1976 and is still in the lecturer & sport psychologist (HMS),
Pierre de Wet (MSc 1987) – Lecturer in same department as a senior lecturer in Prof Andrew Leitch who studied at completed her BA Hons (Phys Ed) degree
Anatomy. history. the former UPE from 1975 to 1983, and in 1979, the same year she started
Pierre is the longest-served staff member started working on 1 January 1982, is now lecturing. Since then she has completed
in the Pharmacy Department and well “The sea of white faces Faculty of Science Dean. her MA and DPhil in Psychology and MA
remembers moving “just about my whole
I had been teaching in Counselling Psychology.
lab” from Russell Road to North Campus Prof Bert Olivier who studied at the
(the old PE Technikon) bit by bit. Then
began to change to a former UPE in the late 1960s has been Marinda Roux (BCur letA) started
there was a caretaker who wooed the warm kaleidoscope of working at the institution in the Philosophy lecturing in April 1985 and went on to
pharmacy students to concoct peppermint colours.” Department since October 1970. complete her MCur and was a lecturer
liquer for him and the mad scramble to find at the date of her retirement. She’s now
documentation to prove that he qualified for Prof Eileen Campbell (BSc Hons back at NMMU on contract.
his 35-year long-service award. 1983) started working at UPE after
Prof Henk Pauw – (BA Honours, MA finishing her PhD and has lectured at the Prof Chris Hoelsen (DPhil Clinical
Prof Frans Bezuidenhout – Professor and DPhil 1987) has been a staff member institution ever since. Psychology 1982) worked his way up from
in Group Dynamics. since 1973. He now heads the Department a tutor and part-time lecturer to that of
“Just before my first ‘walk’ in the of Sociology and Anthropology. Prof Andre Calitz. “I started studying professor in the Psychology Department.
academic procession as a newly-appointed
Christo’s still climbing NMMU’s ladder
junior lecturer, an ex-professor of my
undergraduate years in whose subject I did
not do well, mentioned that this was the
place of academics and that I should sit in NMMU Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Academic Professor
the audience. I have never mentioned this Christo van Loggerenberg epitomises what it’s like to
incident to anyone before, but this lesson climb the higher education institution’s ladder.
will always remain with me. I still am not In 1970, the young Van Loggerenberg enrolled at the former
sure if I have made the grade.” University of Port Elizabeth as a first year law student. After
graduating, he was immediately appointed as a lecturer in
Di Ayliff (BAHons 1982) – HoD Applied Law. He continued studying towards his LLB while lecturing
Language Studies. and finished it in 1975. He eventually became a professor,
“I remember a sense of new-found then the youngest-ever dean of a faculty at UPE and was the
openness and joy when the university dean until his appointment as deputy vice-chancellor. This
began to transform from a solidly probably makes him UPE’s longest-running dean, and
conservative institution, to one which now he’s the deputy vice-chancellor.
welcomed all races. The sea of white faces Like so many of his colleagues, he has never left the university.
I had been teaching began to change to a
LEGACY CONTINUES … NMMU Deputy Vice-Chancellor
warm kaleidoscope of colours.” Prof Christo van Loggerenberg caps his son Conrad at
graduation, 38 years after he joined the university as a first-
year law student.
On top 5
An alumnus’s personal story of reconciliation
The importance of saying sorry
By Pitout Horn: nearest café for half a loaf event; the Friday evening all- according to instructions, I left still the entity that doubted my
(BSc 1976) of bread, and one raw carrot nighters to finish our motorised my bedding on the bed as I integrity as a person and who, in
but, no beverages. Above the floats for the procession vacated residence for the last essence, labelled me a “thief”. I
1972 – 1976 were some din of carrot chomping, loose through town; the touch rugby time. Then came a “Dear Sir, still felt a need for someone, on
big years in my life. 1969 change clanging, and laughter, played before supper; the we regret to inform you that behalf of NMMU, to listen and
saw Armstrong set foot on old Sammy stood no chance weekend that a few of us you have forfeited your R20 believe in my innocence. Another
the moon; 1970 saw me whatsoever. carried a car into the dining deposit for failing to hand letter followed, addressed to
finish matric; in 1971 I did Other memorable moments room or the weekend that we in your bedding” (A fortune Paul Geswindt, Deputy Director:
compulsory foot-stomping in were the Everything-that- stripped someone’s bicycle then – a CSIR bursary of “just” Marketing and Alumni Relations.
the army and in 1972 I enrolled floats-events, especially the down to some 1500 parts. It R600 paid for all class and He responded in a most caring
at UPE as a BSc student. residence fees, books, petrol fashion. An emotional (for me)
Life at varsity was one and pocket money). I was meeting of “restitution” and
highlight. Initiation of us first- innocent and felt aggrieved. healing followed to clear the air.
years entailed doing hilariously A letter of appeal and protest After 32 years I finally had a
funny stuff - such as our night followed, to no avail. I lost letter from NMMU saying that
at the movies. Guys and girls my R20. my Alma Mater has accepted my
were paired off so that the 1976 became the year “the bona fides and that the matter
shortest guys escorted the system” treated me unfairly. was closed. Thanks for your
tallest girls and vice versa. 1976 was also the year that intervention Paul.
We had to dress up in our others somewhere remotely Hector, I never had the
Sunday best which, in those protested against an unfair privilege of knowing you other
days implied suit and tie for system. That year Hector than through the photograph
the guys, and church dresses Pietersen forfeited his life, I taken by Sam Nzima on June
with hats for our partners. Pitout Horn as he was and is today forfeited my R20. 16. 1976 was unfair to us both
The guys had to go without The years moved on. I my brother, more to you than to
shirts and socks though, and year that the NSRI had to bail was fun and games yes, but taught Physical Science me. I spoke out and was heard,
had to drag along suitcases us out just south of China there was discipline too – a tie and Mathematics for some I know there are many speaking
containing small change for following a strong westerly; and jacket dress code, a hair eight years before being out on your behalf even today.
sound effects. Transport was Intervarsities against Rhodes, code for my mates studying headhunted by the CSIR, a I began to understand some of
by bus and we were all herded especially the year four of us Law, and during the evenings research organisation where your pain, rejection, anger and
into the 20th Century in Strand slept in the very spacious Mini a study silence curfew was I am still employed. My eldest humiliation. If only you could be
Street for a Sammy Davis of roommate Jacques; the year upheld, except from 22h00 - daughter Seugnet enrolled in refunded your life and I my R20,
Jnr movie. With a suitcase Unitas and Veritas got married 22h30 when it was coffee time Human Movement Science I really would have liked to buy
on your lap and church hats and had their first-born Babytas and the pranks would continue. and I became involved with us a beer and talk about that
blocking the screen, the movie (represented by the hairiest After all this fun came 1976 campus life yet again. The eventful year when we both were
was a lost cause. At interval guy on campus in just a diaper) – my year of anger. It was hurt of some 30 years ago angry young men protesting a
the guys were marched to the christened in a very pompous my final year at UPE and, returned – NMMU was after all just cause ...
Come and support our University Shop for
various corporate clothing, gifts, stationery and
memorabilia. Visit us today at the Sanlam Student
Village on University Way, Summerstrand.
For more information visit www.nmmu.ac.za/shop or
e-mail: shop@nmmu.ac.za or contact us on
tel: +27 41 504 4371
6 In touch
Snapshot of
West Coast series 5 by Ian Difford, who works
in Johannesburg directing film commercials.
photographic brilliance
A visual tribute to the international
standard of NMMU’s photography
students down the decades
formed a highlight of the Annual
Vice-Chancellor’s Art and Culture
Evening at the Nelson Mandela
Red Location by Graham Thompson, who is Bay Art Museum (the former King
still lecturing photography students at NMMU.
George IV Art Gallery).
The event, which last year served
as a fitting farewell to former NMMU
Vice-Chancellor Dr Rolf Stumpf, is
part of the university’s initiative to
highlight the critical role of arts and
culture in society today.
The photographic work of alumni
from London to New York was
exhibited.
Welcome to Grahamstown (2008) by Roxane
van Wyk, who is working as a lab technician at
Bascule Bridge, Wapping, London (2002) by NMMU’s Photography Department.
Michael Boutall, who once ran the Photographic
Department and lives in the English capital today.
Kolmanskop, Luderitz, Namibia (2003), by
Waldemar Bussiahn, who is a photographic
Smithsonian Portrait Gallery by Harry de Zitter, Valiant by Johan Wilke, who specialises in lecturer at Tswane University of Technology in
who lives in United States of America. advertising photography in Cape Town. Pretoria.
NMMU highlights 7
Unprecedented building progress
The Kraal is as was, Goldfields and the Unitas /Veritas Clubhouse too; the ghost still wanders
around Pampoenkraal at George and Heinz Betz continues to pack students in, be it for parties
or exams. But there have been some changes, some big changes …
Not since the University of Missionvale Campus (former
Port Elizabeth (UPE) or the PE campus of Vista University)
Port Elizabeth Technikon were 4Two new lecture halls for
built in the 1960s and 1970s South Campus (close to Build
respectively, has Nelson ing 35) and
Mandela Metropolitan University 4Two new lecture halls, a
experienced such building computer lab and a library for
progress. George Campus (Saasveld).
That’s what happens when “People are talking about a
the country’s Department of recession, but there’s no sign
Education sees fit to invest of a recession at NMMU,” says
R301m in your institution for the university’s planning and
various initiatives. project’s director Stuart Blignaut,
Since early last year NMMU, himself an alumnus.
with its five campuses in Port The merger has not only AS IT WAS … An aerial shot of the new Port Elizabeth Technikon in the late 1970s, is stark
Elizabeth and one in George, brought unprecedented building comparison to the NMMU North Campus of today with its lush, mainly indigenous gardens and
extra buildings.
has been awash with building progress, but has meant a
activity, all set to improve its change of venues for several
infrastructure and teaching and disciplines. Nursing, for example,
learning facilities. is no longer on South Campus.
These improvements include: They’re now in J Block at North
4A new link road between Campus. NEW SURROUNDS … The
ancient oak tree opposite
North Campus (former The architectural technology the original Saasveld house,
PE Technikon) and South and interior design students Pampoenkraal, is getting
some new neighbours in the
Campus (former UPE) near have moved from North to
form of 200- and 280-seater
the postgraduate village on South, while construction man- lecture halls, a 450-seater
Protea Road. agement and quantity surveying computer lab and a library to
accommodate the School of
4A new campus entrance, moved from South to join their Business and Social Science
labs, a greenhouse, a library fellow built environment col- from 2009.
and library conversion for leagues on North Campus.
LONDON LINKS … NMMU’s vice-chancellor Prof Derrick Swartz (centre) was introduced
to the newly-formed London Alumni Chapter as well as (from left) Paul Geswindt of Alumni
Relations, Krynauw Kruger, Celia Geyer (both London alumni chapter coordinators, and Kotie
Grove of the NMMU Trust.
PEOPLE SKILLS … Rene de Reuck, owner of Top
Personnel, was the guest speaker at a function organised by
NMMU’s HR academic Dr Paul Poisat (right) in cooperation
with the Alumni Relations Office, represented by Alumni
RENEWING FRIENDSHIPS … Mark Groch (from left), Jacqueline King, Craig Comforth and Association President Randall Jonas who also addressed
Grant Jack also attended the successful London reunion in July. Another will be held next year. the audience.
8 Alumni reunions
2008 highlights
2008 has been an exceptionally busy year for NMMU, starting
with the arrival of its new vice-chancellor Prof Derrick Swartz
in January, the launch of several new facilities, visits by a
number of top speakers, including former president Thabo
Mbeki and several new initiatives.
The university also protested Technology and its Downstream
against racism and xenophobia, Chemicals Technology Station
and celebrated a string of (InnoVenton) will be upgrading
successes among its students its facilities with R7m to
and staff. research and test biodiesel
Highlights include: and associated products. A
4The launch of Vision 2020, a further R13m will be spent in
project to capture the long-term the next two years to increase
dreams for NMMU, and then its research and development
GO-GETTER … Head GREEN TYRES … PhD
transform them into reality. capability in serving South of NMMU’s Centre for Chemistry student Robert
4Prof Danie Hattingh of Africa’s chemical industry. African Conservation Bosch won R300 000 as
Ecology Prof Graham winner of the Innovation
the Institute for Advanced 4International expert
Kerley (right), along with Fund’s National Innovation
Manufacturing and Engineering in plant conservation Prof his team organised The Competition for his
Society for Conservation environmentally-friendly
Research (IAMER) is the first Richard Cowling is one of only
Biology’s annual conference rubber nano products
staff member of NMMU to have three South Africans to have attended by more than 1 liquid activation system
been selected as one of the five been made a member of the 600 delegates from around which replaces the toxic
the world late in 2007. zinc oxide in vulcanised
finalists for the National Science prestigious National Academy of Prof Kerley is advising the rubber. The product is
and Technology Forum Awards Science of the USA. government on a new policy set to revolutionise tyre
for managing South Africa‘s manufacturing.
(catergory B). He and his Friction 4Funding of more than R3m
elephants.
Stir Welding (FSW) research from the European Union will
team received a new process see NMMU strive to test 10 000
development system valued at people for HIV infection by May
close to R7m from the United 2009.
States which will greatly enhance 4The university will
their research in conjunction with commercialise a range of insect
industry. repellent products, Repellox,
4NMMU and the Pebble Bed from 2009.
Modular Reactor Company have 4Senior scientist and
signed a research enabling researcher Prof Janine
agreement for continued research Adams has been appointed
on the nuclear fuel to be used in at chairperson of the Water
the first demonstration pebble bed Research Commission Board,
modular reactor. the country’s water-centred BACK HOME … NMMU alumnus Prof NEW LEADER … Prof Piet Naudé who
Vivienne Lawack-Davids returned to Port is nationally and internationally recognised
4The Institute for Chemical knowledge hub. Elizabeth from Pretoria to become the new for his expertise in business ethics, and a
Executive Dean of Law at NMMU, and past dean of arts at the former UPE, was
the first black female dean of law in South appointed director of NMMU’s Business
Africa. School from October.
PAYING TRIBUTE …
Former president Thabo
Mbeki seen here with Prof
Derrick Swartz was the
speaker at the inaugural
Raymond Mhlaba annual
memorial lecture in August,
and one of many
top dignitaries to visit NMMU
in 2008.
SPEAKING OUT … NMMU
staff and students marched
against racism in March with
the vice-chancellor leading
the way. “There is only one
race: the human race. … We
were born equal, but society
made us unequal,” Prof
Swartz told protesters.
NMMU news 9
Inside the
heads of
politicians
Alumni in
Staying positive, staying put
Alan Knott-Craig is not packing for
Perth.
While he recognises South Africa is
not perfect, he’s chosen
Prof Aubrey Immelman to see the positive
opportunities available “I don’t think we’re
Ever shaken your head in amazement here. It’s an attitude
living in a perfect
at the actions or words of one politician that – quite inadvertently
country. If we don’t get
it right, things could go
or another? – has spiralled into a
wrong. But I believe we
Not content with just wondering what best-selling book called
will get it right.”
makes politicians tick, Prof Aubrey Don’t Panic!
Immelman has developed a system for Knott-Craig, who
constructing personality profiles of world graduated from NMMU with BCom
leaders and presidential candidates, and (Hons) in 1999, is the managing director
predicting their leadership behaviour of wireless broadband provider iBurst.
– and he’s received international His unintentional journey to bestselling
recognition for it. author started with an email sent to his
Immelman, whose studies at NMMU staff at the start of the year – amidst
culminated in a DPhil in psychology interest rate hikes, power cuts and
in 1991, is an associate professor of ongoing crime – encouraging them not
psychology at the College of St. Benedict to lose sight of the inevitable silver lining
and St. John’s University in Minnesota, on a temporary black cloud.
US, where he recently received The The email spread like wildfire – picked
Linda Mealey Teacher-Scholar Award, up by Radio 702, Carte Blanche, You Broad Reach ... Alan Knott-Craig.
in recognition of his teaching and and Huisgenoot – and it wasn’t long
scholarship. before Penguin approached Knott-Craig Did he expect this reaction? “In a even changed their minds about leaving
During the 2000 US presidential with the intention of expanding it into a word, no!” said Knott-Craig. “Most of the country.”
elections, Immelman and his students book, eliciting contributions from other the reaction has been very good. A lot Knott-Craig has also been bombarded
won two “Page One” awards from the South Africans. He received a good of people want to be positive. And I by requests for motivational talks – all
Minnesota Chapter of the Society of dose of hate mail too. know of one or two people who have this in between trying to do his day job.
Professional Journalists for their in-depth
Scientist nabs top award
reporting, “based on our psychological
profiles of candidates”.
Immelman has also been involved in
consulting work with the US government
and NATO allies on national security Her wholehearted passion for physics practical aspects, the cleanliness (of the
issues. saw materials scientist Christiané laws of physics) and the methodologies
His work has been widely-publicised in Heiligers, known as Tina, scooping one uses,” said Heiligers.
the US and abroad. one of two prestigious L’Oreal-Unesco Because Element Six’s Diamond
“My time at the old UPE coincided South African Women in Science Research Laboratory is based in
with landmark events in South Africa, Fellowships for 2008. Springs, Heiligers and her husband,
including the Soweto uprising of 1976, Heiligers, a researcher at Element Six Marc, who studied Computer Science
the death of Steve Biko, and the State – the world’s largest maker of synthetic at NMMU, had to relocate from Port
of Emergency of the 1980s. As an diamonds – studied science at NMMU, ULTRA TOUGH … Dr Tina Elizabeth to Johannesburg – but she
Heiliger’s work with ultrahard
opponent of apartheid, I had occasional collaborating with the University of the metals has been recognised. ensures she keeps close ties with the
run-ins with the old Broederbond- Witwatersrand for her master’s degree in university, which she regards as family.
dominated university administration; physics and subsequent PhD, which she of ultrahard materials – research “The physics department was
however, it ultimately served not only to earned last year. work that is likely to have an array of fantastic. It really had a family feel, and
strengthen my capacity for independent Her master’s involved the study of applications in technology. was conducive to creative thinking. I still
thought … but also shaped my interest ceramic-metal materials, used in cutting It is as a result of this work that work with them quite closely.” Heiligers
in the psychology of politics, which tool applications, while her doctoral work, Heiligers received the L’Oreal-Unesco is currently collaborating with NMMU’s
subsequently became the centrepiece of funded with a bursary from Element Six, fellowship. physics and chemistry departments for
my professional career.” focused on the properties and structures “I’ve always enjoyed physics – the research Element Six is outsourcing.
10 Alumni newsthe news
‘Ace’ comes up trumps
“Hard work never killed anyone, it only produces good
results.”
So says 24-year-old Achumile ‘Ace’ Majija,
whose irrepressible drive for success has resulted in
doors flung wide open in the world of business.
This 2005 BCom graduate works for Sanlam
Investment Management (SIM) as an investment
operations strategist – a position the company
tailor-made for Majija to “be in line with his career
aspirations”. It was while he was completing the
graduate programme for Old Mutual that SIM
recognised his potential and approached him – and he
hasn’t looked back.
But this is only one of many achievements.
Majija was also the first chairperson of the Black
Management Forum’s young professionals’ desk in the
Western Cape. He has also served on the provincial
committee of the BMF, and the advisory board of
Aiesec UCT. And he’s started an investment holdings
company.
While he is certainly going places, he is also
determined to make a difference in the lives of others.
Majija is one of the co-founders of a bursary trust “to
help pay for students at my old high school, who can’t
afford their education”. He also does motivational
speaking at schools and prisons. “The ability to make
a difference in someone’s life is by far the greatest
achievement.”
While studying at NMMU, he was selected to go on
a student exchange programme to Germany. He was
also selected to attend the UN World Youth Congress,
TOP GEAR … Ace Majija is making a name for himself as a business investment strategist. and was awarded the Abe Bailey Travel Scholarship
to the UK.
Swahili-teaching Texan
He may have been raised in Texas, but a lifelong articles, and close to 100 children’s books.
interest in Afrikaans and the indigenous languages of His doctoral thesis “Relative/Identical Semantic
Southern Africa saw George Stanley enrolling for Structuralisation – Implications for the Teaching
a linguistics doctorate at the then University of Port of Afrikaans and English to Xhosa students in the
Elizabeth in the early 70s. Transkei”, was published in 1976, and for a time, was
For Stanley, it was a decision that “formed” him. used by the University of Cape Town in their teacher
“My decision to attend UPE was one of the best training programme.
decisions – maybe the best decision – I have ever Soon after completing his doctorate, Stanley
made in my life. I credit UPE with everything I have received a Fulbright scholarship to teach at the
achieved.” University of N’Djamena in Chad – it was there that
And he has achieved a great deal. Stanley, now a he started writing fiction. Listening to the BBC on his
professor of African and Middle-Eastern Languages short-wave radio led to his writing radio plays for the
and Linguistics at Cameron University in Lawton, programme World Service Short Story. Returning to
Oklahoma, teaches Swahili, Arabic and Persian/ the US, he continued to write and publish stories,
Farsi, and tutors Dari, Pashto, Somali and Urdu. He many set in Africa.
has published over 200 short stories and linguistics HOWDY … George Stanley
Alumni news 11Networking their way around the globe
If you want to find someone, ask a PR
graduate … they’re just so connected,
and living around the world. Routes
caught up with some of them.
“Public Relations is the deliberate, planned and
sustained effort to … blah, blah, blah ”. Anyone who
studied PR at NMMU (or at the former PE Technikon)
remembers this well along with lecturers Dr Brian
Norris, Dr Betsie Ferreira and Beulah van Rooyen.
Beulah is still teaching while Betsie and Brian have
moved on.
As, indeed, have our PR graduates who are living and
working around the globe:
Chris Fitzgerald (1985) is Communications Director
at Illovo Sugar in Natal. OLD GUARD … PR lecturers Dr Betsie Ferreira, Dr Brian Norris and Beulah van Rooyen
Gillian Roffe (1986) owns her own travel agency,
Uniglobe, in Port Elizabeth. Savanna, Burchell and Du Toitskloof Wines. Lynne Krige (2003) is in advertising at Boomtown in
Marian Lucouw who qualified as a physiotherapist, Brennan Holder (1999) is in Dubai and is now an Port Elizabeth.
married and had children, before completing her NDip actor and singer and doing very well for himself! Sharon Davies
PR in 1988, is the project manager of the Port Elizabeth Marinda Oosthuizen (2004) lives and works in
Opera House. “I loved the way my fellow students (2001) has been in London in the Business
received me, this much older woman, as a friend and London town for the last Centre at the Institute of
not as a ‘tannie’”. five years and works at Directors. “I think back
Neil Bisseker (NDip the Local Government very fondly to my old
1988) is well-known in Association within the Adult PE Tech days. Strong
the Eastern Cape as Social Care policy area. friendships were formed
a sports broadcaster She has great memories of with both students and
with AlgoaFM. He edits her days at the old PE Technikon, declaring that the arrival lecturers.”
a national monthly of Steers in the cafeteria was sheer genius! Allison Kingma (2004) is now the campus events
golf publication and in Jacqui Gilchrist (2001) coordinator in Marketing & Corporate Relations at
September launched is based in Cape Town, but NMMU. “I think the most memorable thing is the friends
a new monthly sports newspaper Sport Elizabeth for travelling countrywide, with that I made, and how we all ‘grew’ together. l always
local sports fans. “I was one of only two males in my PR her training and coaching treasure those special times together.”
class and loved it,” recalls Neil, adding that it cost just consultancy, FULLIFE, and Patience Mathambo
“10 bucks to fill my mini 1275 GT with petrol!” is a partner in another com- (2004) teaches PR
Andre Bothma (1989) is general manager of a pany that assists people to first and second
hospital in Pretoria. with interacting with the year students at the
Samantha Smith media. University of Botswana.
(1991) went off in a Michelle Kobliscke She is also doing her
slightly different direction (2002) is part of the master’s in Global
to most PR graduates Jupiter Drawing Room Media Communication
and followed journalism. Advertising agency in though the University of
It paid off as she’s now Cape Town working Melbourne, Australia.
executive editor for The on interesting and “My lecturers, Dr Elizabeth Ferreira and Ms Toni
Herald and Weekend Post. As for her student days, the challenging accounts. Gennrich, inspired me. Their diligence and commitment
new mother so misses “those free afternoons!” “I have fond memories inspired me to always strive to become better, which is
Denise van Huysteen (1993) is the including our confronting something that I carry with me”.
Communications Manager at General Motors SA. a landlord who had just kicked out one of our Botswana Thabisa Nondzube
Madie Venter (Koekemoer) is the centre manager students.” (2005) who is
for Summerstrand Village Shopping Centre and well Dianne Mckay studying towards her
misses the free time between lectures when they (2003) owns an events MTech in Strategic
“baked in the sun like dassies”. management company Communication, is
Linda Strydom called Metro Events. now a lecturer in PR
(1997) works in Cape “During summer we used at the Cape Peninsula
Town as a senior to sit out on the grass in University of Technology.
consultant for a public front of J-Block and drink
relations agency with ice cold Coca Cola, eat If you’d like to make contact with any of your
clients who include junk food, soak up the old PR friends, please contact Bev Erickson
Durbanville Hills, Klipdrift sun like dassies while speaking nonsense to anyone that (1986) on
Gold, Nederburg, would listen! Life was good…” erickson@nmmu.ac.za
12 Practising PRWhere are they today?
The first students of the predecessors to NMMU started their studies in 1965 and
1979 at the former University of Port Elizabeth and PE Technikon respectively, and If you have news of any
dotted around the world today …This is what Routes discovered. alumni, please drop us a line
on alumni@nmmu.ac.za or
call 041 504 3935. We’d love
Prof Michael De Jongh (BA Hons 1966, MA
Anthropology 1968) is an anthropology lecturer at
to hear from you.
UNISA in Pretoria.
Trevor Kok retired after Electrical Engineering 1976) is a high voltage plant manager
40 year’s service with with Eskom Transmission; Jutta Rohwer (BA Hons 1971,
Ford SA. He started his NDip Education 1972, MA 1977) is a self-employed teacher/
career as a trainee at translator in PE; Barry Probert (BSc Quantity Surveying
Prof Brian Bredenkamp Ford SA’s former Neave 1975) works at Rousseau Probert Elliot as a professional
(NDip Forestry 1970) who plant, and worked his way quantity surveyor in PE; Graeme Russell (BCom 1973) is
is a professor of forestry up to as the company’s a manager at First National Bank; Prof Lawrence Hunter
management at the vice-president. (MSc 1969, PhD 1974) is the head of the Textile Science
University of Stellenbosch, Prof Colleen Crangle Department at NMMU; Alfred Denyer (BEd 1976) is a
released an anecdotal book (BSc 1973) went on to ob- retired school headmaster in East London. Lynne Howse
about the forestry industry in tain her PhD in Logic, Phi- (Abel) (MA 1976) is a retired psychologist in PE; Estelle
both English and Afrikaans losophy of Language and Willis (BA Education 1979) teaches at the Curro Private
during the 75th Anniversary celebrations of the Saasveld Philosophy of Science, School in Cape Town; Peter Gilbert (NDip Pharmacy 1971)
Campus, NMMU’s George Campus. at Stanford University in is a retired pharmacist in PE;
Jan Ferreira (BA 1979) the USA, where she has Michelle Brown (NDip 1976)
who was a Xanadu resident, settled. She was the princi- celebrated 21 years of her own
is currently a records and pal author of Language and Logic for Robots, covering 10 successful PR company in Port
knowledge manager at Rand years of research at Stanford. Since 1997, she has run a Elizabeth this year. Esta-Marie
Water in Glenvista, south of small business focusing on computer methods for under- Le Roex (BCom Education 1979)
Johannesburg. standing biomedical language. “The studies I undertook in works in Knysna as a director at
Christopher Bennett Computer Science, Mathematics and English (at NMMU) Garden Route Trusses; Charl de Beer (BA Hons 1979) is
(BSc Hons 1971) lives in Cape Town where he runs his own turned out to define the rest of my academic career.” a member of the Provincial legislature in the Northern Cape;
Textile company, CB Tex Distributors. He has been married Leonie Grondel (nee Birck) (BA 1976) is the Sports Beyers Joubert (BCom Hons 1978) is an audit partner for
for 29 years and has three daughters. He was previously Communication & Projects Administrator of the SA Tennis Deloitte & Touche in Pretoria; James Hay (BA 1979, BEd
employed by SA Nylon Spinners in Cape Town. Association in Johannesburg; Johan van Zyl (NDip 1988) is presently an educator at Linkside High School in PE.
organisations and works actively in Africa, particularly the art of marketing, I realised this was my future.” His advice
southern Africa sub region. He initiated the African Plant to current marketing students: “Ensure that you believe
Checklist and Database project, the Angolan plant diversity in it (your product, business plan, etc) before trying to
survey, and has arranged several international meetings convince others.” Kevin Robertson (BSc Hons 2002)
across the globe. Prof Smith has received wide recognition, runs his own civil engineering contracting business,
both nationally and internationally, for his research and Compaction King, which has branches throughout the
leadership activities. He currently counts 13 medals and Eastern and Southern Cape. Albert Schultz (BBuild
prizes among his achievements, from as far a field as the Arts 1984, BArch 1986) is a self-employed architect and
US and Monaco. He finds time to cultivate a large collection biologist in PE; Conroy Fourie (BCom Hons 1987)
of Mexican Agave species and aloe plants and derives great works for Toyota Tsusho Africa as a general manager
enjoyment from an extensive private music collection. responsible for the distributor management team in
Adv Patrick Scott (BJuris 1980, LLB 1982) is an Pretoria; Judith Exley (nee Rodger) (BA 1982) is
advocate in PE. a family advocate for the Department of Justice in East
Ralph Humphrey (BArch 1983) greets her Sean Harrison (NDip London; Gregory Dawson (BA Hons 1980) works for
majesty Queen Elizabeth II at the opening of the up Marketing and Sales GMSA in PE and is responsible for planning new model
market King Edward Court in February this year, which Management 1989) is the launches; Dr Alfred Brunsdon (BA Theology 1989)
his company London & Associated Properties designed. managing director of tyre is a minister at the Dutch Reformed Church; Quentin
Prof Gideon Smith retailer Hi-Q Automotive, Mace (BCom 1987) is a disbursement auditor for GMSA
(BSc 1983) is the a subsidiary of Goodyear in PE; Gert Smith (NDip Nursing Administration &
Director at the SA South Africa, and the Community Nursing Science 1982) is a retired assistant
National Biodiversity former marketing director nursing director and lives in PE; Cornelia van Eck
Institute in Pretoria. He of PG-Glass. “NMMU had (nee van Rooyen) (NDip Specialised Education 1987)
is involved in more than a marked impact on my is a head of department at Kabega Primary School in
25 international research career path. Having been PE; Mattheus Louw (BA 1983) is a lecturer at Rhodes
thrusts, committees and exposed to the science and University in Grahamstown.
Alumni news 13Where are they today?
Nel (BTech Information Technology 1997) is employed Wolf (nee Maberly) (NDip Architecture 1994) lives
by Knowledge Net as their data integration consultant in Cape Town; Anthony Sparg (BA 1994, HDE 1995)
in PE; Bandile Jack (NDip Electrical Engineering is a lecturer at Buffalo City College; Colleen Ivings
1992) works at Eskom as a programme manager; (nee Momberg) (BCom Law 1996, LLB 1998) is a
Thembela Booi (NDip Fine Arts 1998) is an professional assistant at Onris Baker & Associates in
artist in King William’s Town; Songezo Mfazwe PE; Angela Baxter (BCur 1996) is a senior registered
(BTech Chemistry 1998) is a senior analyst for Aspen nurse at St George’s Hospital; Robert O’Flacherty
Pharmacare in PE; Paul North (BCom 1990) is (BCom 1991) is a Financial Aid Director at New World;
joint Managing Director for ProLoss In Cape Town; Prof Lynette Louw (nee Marais) (DCom 1999) is a
Cindy Thompson (nee Branford) (BSc Hons professor at Rhodes University, Grahamstown; Saskia
Biochemistry 1998) is a specification evaluator at Aspen Weitsz (BCom Hons 1997) works for Umicore Catalyst
Pharmacare; Kerry Winterburn (nee Brouard) in PE as a cost analyst; Tracy Thomas (BA 1996)
(NDip Information Technology 1998) works for Hybrid is a payroll administrator at HR Focus in East London;
Development, a subsidiary of KFML Holdings, as an Neil Gary (BCom 1992) works for Gardener Asphalt as
IT buyer in PE; Andrew Booyens (BTech Quantity a director in Information Technology; Lise Claassen
Surveying 1998) is a senior quantity surveyor at (BCom Hons 1992) is employed by Deloitte & Touche,
Roberts Bros Construction in East London; PE; Jacobus Lombard (BBdg Art 1995, BArch 1997)
Lester Cunningham (BSc Hons 1996) is a works for Brinkman Ndayi McAll Architects as an architect
Maths teacher and HoD at John Walton High School in Uitenhage; Jane Aston (NDip Fashion Design 1991)
Dr Andre Trollip (MTech Biomedical 1998) is in Uitenhage and serves on the NMMU Alumni owns Mignonette Bridal Shop in the United Kingdom;
Managing Director of Biotec Laboratories SA in Executive Committee. Barry Radloff (NDip Christian du Preez (HDE s/t 1993), is an accounting
Cape Town. Information Technology teacher at Bertram Secondary School in Port Elizabeth,
1996) is in Cape Town and was assistant referee during the Super14 Rugby
Nomakula Deli (NDip working as an architect/ tournament.
Marketing & Sales analyst programmer Jeanne Horak studied
Management 1993) for MagmaTec; Aleta law in the mid 90s. She
is the proud owner Pienaar (DSE Remedial is a trained criminal
of Masiye Mzantsi Education 1995) works as advocate, lectured
Travel Agency in Port an educator at Tiny Tots Pre-Primary School in PE; commercial law to non-
Elizabeth. Alberton Murray (NDip Mechanical Engineering legal students at NMMU
1997) is a designer engineer for Joy Mining Machinery and moonlighted at a
in Johannnesburg; software company as a
Dr Adriaan Lombard (BA 1986, HDE 1987, BEd proposals writer and legal
Hons 1992, MEd 1994, DEd 1999) lectures at the East advisor. Eight years ago
Cape Education Department in PE; Tracy Hirst she relocated to London
(nee Geard) (BCom 1997) works for Allan Gray in where she temped as a PA at a large soft-drink company
Cape Town as the marketing manager; Gerhard and now works in a law firm in a knowledge management
Schoeman (BJuris 1998) is the owner of Rebel role. On the side-line she writes under the name of “Cook
Catering in PE; Michael Terblanche (BJuris 1991) Sister” on her own foodie blog site – www.cooksister.com
is a portfolio manager for Guardrisk Life Limited in
PE; Sherylin Schneider (nee van der Berg)
(BA 1994) is an educator at Gelvandale Park Primary
School in PE; Vusumzi Duma (MA Sociology 1997)
is a lecturer at the University of Fort Hare; Nicola
Green (BCom 1992) is in London working at Hanover
Dumisani Mbebe (BA 1998) is a director at Housing Association as a procurement manager;
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. Taryn Alt (nee Knoetze) (BEd 1999) teaches
at Balmoral Primary School in Queenstown; Salli
Jacqui LÜck (MPhil Luen (nee Branford) (BPrim Ed 1998) is a special
1997) is a language needs teacher at Abbotsford Christian School in East
lecturer at NMMU. London; Andrew Alt (BCom Rat 1997, BCom Hons
Isabelle du Toit CA (SA) 1998) is a partner at Charteris & Barnes,
(nee Demay) (BFA, Queenstown; Melinda Vosloo (BCom Accounting
1993), an artist who 1998) has her own business, Doyspring Business Lance du Plessis (BA 1992, NDip Education
signs herself ‘Rouaud’, Consultants in PE; Bonnie McCay (BJuris 1994) 1993) who started his radio career at Radio Uppie in
has had her work is the estate administrator for FNB Trust Information the early 1990s, has been with AlgoaFM for 15 years.
displayed in galleries across the US. “My meticulous in PE; Gavin Bantam (BCom Hons 1995) works Thanks to social networks like Facebook, he’s stayed
depictions of mostly solitary animals ask the viewer for Nedcor Securities as an Industrial Analyst in PE; in touch with many of his old university friends and
to consider the plight of nature in the face of man’s Gaye Galatalis (NDip Executive Security 1991) is lecturers. His impressions of NMMU today are that of
encroachment.” Luvuyo Macanda (NDip Public a short-term broker at D&D Brokers in PE; Ansunet a diverse, multicultural institution with a great vibe. His
Management & Administration 1999) is a senior admin Moore (nee Muller) (BCom 1990) works at VWSA in wife Amanda is currently studying towards her master’s
clerk for Lonwabo Primary School in PE; Thomas Uitenhage as a system analyst; Catherine van der in Music at NMMU.
14 Alumni newsYou can also read
