On the 6th October, Stellenbosch University hosted a special alumni evening honouring The Harry Crossley Foundation’s 55-year partnership with the institution — a relationship that has profoundly shaped generations of South African scholars and researchers. The event, hosted by Hugo Steyn and his administrative team, marked not only a milestone in philanthropic collaboration but also a shared legacy of excellence, access, and innovation.
As part of the celebration, the University presented the Foundation with an Impact Report covering 1971 to 2024, highlighting over five decades of meaningful support. The report details the Foundation’s far-reaching contributions — from prestigious postgraduate awards, medical research grants, and wraparound support programmes to feeding initiatives, mental health programmes, and emergency COVID-19 relief. Through the Doris Crossley Foundation, additional undergraduate assistance has ensured that many deserving students can complete their studies with dignity and hope.
The numbers tell a remarkable story: more than R141 million donated since 1971, including R19 million in undergraduate support, R50 million in medical research funding, and R2 million in reduced graduation debt over just four years. The Foundation has also fed 595 students across both campuses, enabling learners to study and thrive free from the constraints of hunger. Each of these figures represents far more than financial input — they reflect human potential realised and futures transformed.
Speaking on behalf of the Foundation and its trustees, Linda Whitfield expressed heartfelt thanks to the Stellenbosch University team for their professionalism, warmth, and enduring commitment. She emphasised the deep respect and friendship that have developed over years of collaboration and acknowledged the University’s exceptional standard of administration and stewardship.
Linda also extended gratitude to the students and alumni whose stories embody the Foundation’s purpose. “Our impact lives through you,” she noted, recognising the diversity, innovation, and intellectual curiosity that Stellenbosch graduates bring to their fields and communities. Their achievements — from medical breakthroughs to sustainability leadership — are a living reflection of the Foundation’s values and vision.
As The Harry Crossley Foundation looks ahead, this milestone reaffirms its pride in the long-standing partnership with Stellenbosch University — one built on shared belief in the power of education, research, and opportunity to change lives.
The full digital alumni impact report can be accessed [here].
