New York-based investment banker, philanthropist and Board member of the Rhodes University USA Trust, Justine Mannering, has capped off the success of a spectacular year-long Rhodes University’s 120th anniversary in 2024 with a year-end share donation.

On 20 November 2024, Rhodes University marked its 120th anniversary celebrations with a prestigious Distinguished Alumni Awards Dinner. The event honoured alumni who have made exceptional contributions across various fields and reaffirmed the University’s legacy of producing leaders and innovators.

Last week, Rhodes University conferred an honorary Doctor of Laws (LLD) degree on South African art activist and educator Dr Michael Barry, acknowledging his tireless efforts to blend art with social justice, education, and community engagement. His work has long inspired a generation of artists, educators, and cultural advocates, making this recognition a fitting tribute.

Rhodes University is proud to announce that South African art activist and educator, Michael Barry, will be awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws (LLD) (honoris causa) during the University’s graduation ceremony in Makhanda on 11 October 2024. This prestigious recognition comes as the University celebrates its 120th anniversary, marking more than a century of academic and cultural excellence. Barry's award also coincides with the 50th anniversary of the National Arts Festival, which has solidified Makhanda’s status as South Africa’s Creative City.

Rhodes University Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sizwe Mabizela, announced the 2024 recipients of the coveted Distinguished Alumni Award at the Annual General Meeting of Convocation on Saturday, 06 September 2024. These individuals have significantly contributed to their respective fields and upheld the university’s academic excellence and leadership legacy.

Rhodes University mourns the passing of education giant, alumnus, and Order of the Baobab recipient, Dr William Smith.

Dr Ashley Westaway, a prominent South African education and community development champion, has been nominated to the Rhodes University Council.

Distinguished Professor Charlie Shackleton, holder of the SARChI Chair in Interdisciplinary Science in Land and Natural Resource Use for Sustainable Livelihoods at Rhodes University, has been awarded the prestigious A1 National Research Foundation (NRF) rating, the highest in the South African national system of research innovation.