Celebrating 40 years of USB alumni networks

Dear USB alumni

Celebrating 40 years of USB alumni networks

In Stellenbosch University’s centenary year, we are also celebrating 40 years of USB alumni networks. USB’s Alumni Association, which was founded on 25 October 1978, now has almost 30 000 alumni who excel in all spheres of society – locally and globally.

Initially, the association was known as NABUS. From 12 March 1986 the association was known as the USB Club. The name changed to USB Alumni Association in August 2006.

Throughout all these years, USB has remained committed to serve alumni in various ways, including opportunities for continued learning, access to business knowledge, and ways to give back to society. Various channels – like this newsletter and the USB Advisory Board – are used to create ongoing conversations between USB and its alumni. As set out in our vision and mission, the USB Alumni Association strives to be the most desirable alumni association in Africa, to promote the interest of USB, and to make an impact. Together, USB and its alumni create a powerful network that contributes to the common good of society.

As 2018 draws to a close, we want to thank our alumni for their support. Thank you for sharing your journeys and stories of impact, participating in events as guest speakers, supporting students by mentoring them, sharing industry knowledge on local and global platforms, helping us to strengthen relationships with corporate partners, and joining network events aimed at career growth. This year, USB and USB-ED alumni initiated more than 75 events in which alumni could participate.

Please know that your contributions are valued and that they make an impact.

What does the future hold?

In 2019, we will focus on building partnerships with stakeholders in the corporate and government sectors, showcasing alumni excellence in innovation and research, and showing the impact that alumni are making in industry, government and society. We will also vigorously expand engagement with alumni through a digital platform, which will be launched in February 2019.

We thank our alumni, USB and USB-ED’s leadership, and our partners the Institute for Futures Research (IFR) and USB’s Small Business Academy (SBA) for their support during the year. We look forward to an inspiring 2019.

Wishing you all a blessed, peaceful and joyous festive season and a meaningful 2019.

Christélle Cronjé

USB Alumni Office

December 2018