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New era dawns as SU appoints first woman registrar
Author: Corporate Marketing/ Korporatiewe Bemarking
Published: 15/07/2016

A new era begins at Stellenbosch University soon when, for the first time, a woman will hold the position of Registrar. Dr Ronel Retief (45), Deputy Registrar: Tygerberg Campus, takes over the position on 1 January 2017. The current incumbent, Mr Johann Aspeling, retires at the end of this year.

"I am looking forward to taking on the role of Registrar and hope to add value, both by giving informed advice about the determining factors in the higher education sector in South Africa and by promoting excellent, empathetic academic administration that supports student success."

Retief studied at Stellenbosch University where she obtained a BA (1992), HonsBA (1993), MA (1996) and DLitt (2005). She joined the University in 1998 as a Coordinator: Research Funding in the Division of Research Development and was appointed Assistant Registrar at the Tygerberg campus in 2003. That position was later upgraded to Deputy Registrar.

Besides publishing articles in accredited journals, Retief has delivered papers at conferences. She has on various occasions received the Rector's Award for Excellence in Service and serves on a number of SU committees. On a national level, she provides input on placement tests, selection opportunities, academic administration and student support.

Retief develops her leadership skills through her involvement in HERS SA and participates in programmes of the University of Stellenbosch Business School, the Saïd Business School and Oxford University.

Commenting on her appointment, SU Rector and Vice-Chancellor Prof Wim de Villiers said: "This is a key position that Dr Retief will be taking up at a decisive moment for the University. Her excellent academic record and extensive experience in a complex faculty where diversity has expanded a lot will stand her in good stead. We have the utmost confidence in her."