Colleagues share kind words with departing former VC

Colleagues of Wits former deputy vice-chancellor have expressed kind words prior to his departure.

Generous, wise, committed and principled, these are the words used to describe the new vice-chancellor (VC) of Sol Plaatje University and former VC of Wits University, Professor Andrew Crouch. As of 1 April 2020 Prof. Crous has been the head of the Kimberley-based university leaving behind years of old and strong relationships. Here’s what a few of his colleagues had to say:

•  Professor Zeblon Vilakazi, deputy vice chancellor: We have worked through many difficult issues together and collaborated on numerous projects, and I am grateful for all that I have learnt from him.
•  Professor Imraan Valodia, dean of the Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management: Professor Crouch has always provided stewardship and then allowed us to get on with our jobs as deans. We all know that Professor Crouch could always be relied upon to attend to the most difficult issues when it mattered most, and for this we were all grateful.
•  Professor Ian Jandrell, dean of the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment: On behalf of the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, I would like to thank Professor Crouch for building a relationship based on trust with the faculty and deans. You must be lauded for your turnaround of the academic development unit and for contributing to a successful teaching and learning environment.
•  Professor Garth Stevens, dean of the Faculty of Humanities: This is an apex moment for you as an individual and as an academic, and distinguishes you as a leader. You have done much for the faculty and the university over the past decade and you have shared your knowledge and wisdom with such generosity – thank you.
•  Professor Martin Veller, dean of Faculty of Health Sciences: From the Faculty of Health Sciences, I would like to thank you for your remarkable contribution to Wits and the faculty. We wish you well as you take up the reins at Sol Plaatje University. If you take what you did at Wits to Sol Plaatje, the University will undoubtedly succeed.
•  Professor Nithaya Chetty, dean of the Faculty of Science: I admire your ability to continue to conduct research and supervise students, even at the level of vice principal. You have helped me greatly with my transition to Wits and I have learnt tremendously from you. Thank you.
•  Prakash Desai, chief financial officer: I admire you for always remaining calm and level-headed even in a crisis, and your ability to always get the job done with a less is more approach. We will miss you dearly.
•  Fana Sibanyoni, chief operating officer: I appreciate your systematic approach to work. You have left a legacy in your wake and have transformed the academic project.
•  Carol Crosley, registrar: Thank you for having faith in me and for allowing me to do my job. You gave me the latitude to be creative and demonstrated confidence in my ability. Congratulations to you and your family. I wish you all the best.

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Farewell Wits University, Hello Sol Plaatje University