BLOEMFONTEIN – The University of the Free State (UFS) mourns the passing of former chancellor Dr Franklin Sonn. The university in a statement confirmed he passed away on Saturday 15 November.
Sonn’s stint as chancellor of the university spanned from 2002 to 2009. The university praised him, saying that he had made significant contributions to the UFS; he helped strengthen its commitment to transformation, excellence and service to society.
“We are deeply grateful for Dr Sonn’s loyal service to the university and for the way in which he contributed to our institution with integrity and vision. His example remains a lasting inspiration to engage fearlessly with change and to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of society,” says Prof. Hester Klopper, vice-chancellor and principal.
Klopper says Sonn’s accomplishments speak to a life lived in service to others and a great legacy in the academic field.
Dr Sonn’s leadership was characterised by dignity, wisdom, and principled conviction. – Prof. Hester Klopper
He had received 12 honorary doctorates, was named AHI Community Leader of the Year (1999), and was awarded the National Order of the Baobab in Silver (2008) by President Thabo Mbeki for his exceptional contributions to South Africa. Internationally, he was honoured with the International Salute Award in Honour of Dr Martin Luther King Jr (1996) for “working to keep the dream alive”.
Sonn is remembered for his positive impact in wide range of leadership roles. He served as rector of the Peninsula Technikon, president of the AHI, chairperson of the United States-South African Leadership Exchange. He was also a member of the SABC board.
“Dr Sonn’s leadership was characterised by dignity, wisdom, and principled conviction. A lifelong champion of justice and education, Dr Sonn will be remembered for his extraordinary versatility and impact as an educator, South Africa’s first democratic ambassador to the United States, and as a business leader,” says Klopper.
