Prof. Ylva Rodny-Gumede of the University of the Free State (UFS) was appointed as the executive director for Advancement, effective 1 November.
In this role, Rodny-Gumede will provide strategic leadership for the university’s Institutional Advancement, Communication and Marketing, and Student Recruitment portfolios.
She joins the UFS from the University of Johannesburg (UJ), where she served as senior director in the division of global engagement.
She holds a PhD from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) at the University of London, a master’s degree in Politics from the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), and a master’s degree in Journalism from the Cardiff University. In addition, she holds a certificate in Executive Leadership from the Johannesburg Business School.
With a career spanning more than 20 years in higher education, Rodny-Gumede has held fellowships at universities in South Africa and abroad. She is actively involved in teaching, executive training, and development initiatives at institutional, national and international levels.
She is an accomplished scholar and has held several leadership and academic positions in the fields of communication, journalism, and public relations. Her experience further includes consultancy for high-profile organisations such as Universities South Africa (USAf) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC). She contributes regularly to print and broadcast media, including Newzroom Afrika, the SABC, Mail & Guardian and University World News.
“Prof. Rodny-Gumede’s strategic mindset, innovative approach, and deep understanding of the higher education landscape will be instrumental in enhancing the university’s national and international visibility, while driving impactful advancement and student recruitment initiatives,” says Prof. Hester Klopper, vice-chancellor and principal of the UFS.
“I look forward to her leadership in elevating the university’s global profile and strengthening our advancement efforts. I extend my congratulations to her.”
