Health Sciences introduce new dean to stakeholders

“We’re gathered here tonight to celebrate – a celebration in honour of a new leader in our midst.” These were the words of Prof Russel Botman, Rector of Stellenbosch University (SU), during the toast he proposed on the new dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, Prof Jimmy Volmink, at the Celebration dinner held at Wallenberg Centre, STIAS in Stellenbosch on 12 April 2011.

Prof Jimmy Volmink was appointed as the 7^th dean of the Stellenbosch Faculty of Health Sciences as from January 2011.

Dr Paul Cluver (left), Chairman of the University Council; Prof Jimmy Volmink and Prof Russel Botman

The goodwill and excellent collaboration agreements between the Faculty and stakeholders were once again confirmed as people representing a wide spectrum of organizations and institutions, including, University board, -management and staff, Medical Research Council, Deans from other Health Sciences faculties, Provincial Department of Health, Medi-Clinic, Chevron SA, Novartis, NHLS and HPCSA as well as previous deans of Stellenbosch Faculty of Health Sciences, attended.

Prof Jimmy Volmink, guest speaker of the evening, gave special recognition to the previous deans and thanked them for their contribution in establishing the Faculty. He, furthermore, emphasized three areas that he would like to advance during his term as dean, namely educating for innovation, embracing our social responsibility and harnessing the goodness and the talent of all who is willing to help. He also focused on ways a 21^st century Faculty of Health Sciences can help to address the enormous challenges and opportunities in health care and that the past should not influence the future.

“We must acknowledge the burdens of the past, but we dare not allow our past to control our future. Progress requires the belief that change is possible and that people can change; it demands the courage to trust.”

This function was held as part of several events where Prof Volmink was introduced to stakeholders such as alumni, students and staff.  This included a meet and greet with alumni at JC le Roux (click here to view photos) as well as visits to students from the residences and private organization, where he thanked them for their commitment to their studies as well as the Faculty. Click here to view photos of the residences and private student organization visits.

• Prof Jimmy Volmink’s speech