They go the extra mile
The NWU has dedicated staff who routinely go above and beyond the normal call of duty. In this article of Eish!'s extra mile series, we give recognition to colleagues who make a difference in other people's lives.
Lorinda Britz
Secretary at Operations and Facilities on the Vaal Triangle Campus, Lorinda Britz, is always prepared to make sure that everything is going smoothly. “She is always willing to help with any arrangements if we need it. Her friendliness makes it an honour to work with her. We appreciate everything she does,” says Rolandie Roestorf, senior administrative assistant at Human Capital Operations in the Institutional Office.
Layton Johnson
Marius de Beer of Academic Support Services on the Potchefstroom Campus says his colleague, Layton Johnson, junior technician, is an exceptionally dedicated and trustworthy staff member who does not hesitate to help colleagues and students. “There were two instances where he picked up money and valuables and ensured that the rightful owners got them back. In the first instance it was a bag with R2 000 and in the second instance a wallet with R1 000 and a laptop.” Marius says many lecturers and students only have praise for Layton. “It is a pleasure to have him as a colleague. He is passionate about what he does and has a positive attitude towards his work.”
Germari Kruger and Karlien Smit
Dr PH Boer of the School of Social Sciences on the Mafikeng Campus says Germari Kruger, research assistant, and Karlien Smit, lecturer, at the Africa Unit for Transdisciplinary Research on the Potchefstroom Campus, are doing excellent work. “I am thankful for all the effort, hard work and dedication that they incorporate into the module WVGW 221. The module is aligned across all three of the NWU’s campuses.”
Anretha Joubert
“She is one of the most versatile, helpful and resourceful people that the Potchefstroom Campus could ever have.” Blanch Carolus of the Unit for Students with Disabilities on the Potchefstroom Campus praises Anretha Joubert, secretary at Student Counselling and Development at the Ingryp Centre, for being the backbone of her department. “She ensures that our workshops and local and international business trips always run smoothly.” Blanch says Anretha can always be reached via Whatsapp should she be needed.
Johnathan Kruger
Desiré Steyn, administrative assistant at the School of Languages on the Potchefstroom Campus, says Johnathan Kruger, assistant at Nashua on the Potchefstroom Campus, always gives prompt service. “He sends my print work the same day I request it and delivers it straight to me.” She says his friendliness and devotion, even when he is extremely busy, are commendable.
Prof Pieter Stoker
Prof Jan Smith, manager of the Science Centre on the Potchefstroom Campus, says Prof Pieter Stoker is an academic giant who deserves praise. “He turned 90 on 3 November and has been actively involved in physics at the NWU since becoming head of that department in 1953.” Jan says even with all the awards and honours Pieter has received through the years, he stays grounded and humble. “He is currently still involved in arctic research where he does more than his part.”
If you would like to nominate a colleague who always goes the extra mile, please send an email to willie.duplessis@nwu.ac.za. Remember to indicate your job title and the name of your department or school, as well as those of the person you are nominating. Also give reasons why you think the person goes the extra mile.