Susan van Rooyen, alumni relations practitioner on the campus in Mahikeng, has retired. She says she is very grateful for the opportunity to have been part of the university community. The NWU & U wishes her the very best for the next part of her journey.

Susan’s retirement signals an end to a long relationship with the university, starting in November 1992 when she was employed as a researcher in the office of the then rector of the former Potchefstroom University for Christian Higher Education, Prof Carools Reinecke.

 

Prof Dan Kgwadi, the NWU vice-chancellor, lauds her for her sterling service to both the university and its students. “Susan was more of a missionary than an employee of this university,” he says.

 

Running a tight ship

 

In addition to her frantic schedule at the alumni office, Susan also served as a house parent for the Sol Plaatje residence for the past 11 years. On the alumni front, Susan ran a tight ship, which resulted in regular, successful interaction with university alumni and other stakeholders.

 

She was instrumental in promoting the alumni roadshow initiative. This initiative saw the university informing former students about gains it had made and the direction it is taking, such as the recent adoption of a unitary model. These roadshows took place in South Africa, but were also extended to neighbouring countries such as Botswana and Swaziland.

 

Building strength and character

 

“I have learned a lot about this lovely, beautiful university and its people,” Susan says. “I have forged strong relationships and built up my inner strength and character, adding value and meaning to my life.

 

“During the past few years, I have learned to celebrate the good and the bad. When we graduated, we celebrated, but when a loved one passed away we also celebrated with dancing and singing. This taught me that we will always overcome difficulties.”