Stellenbosch University (SU) celebrated the extraordinary contributions of philanthropist and entrepreneur Wendy Ackerman by awarding her an honorary Doctor of Philosophy degree, honoris causa, during the December graduation ceremony for the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences.
The recognition comes after more than four decades of dedicated philanthropic work that has positively impacted countless individuals and enriched the arts in South Africa.
In her heartfelt acceptance speech, Ackerman shared her profound gratitude for the honour bestowed upon her. She highlighted the meaningful connection her family has with SU, recalling a poignant personal anecdote: her father was a proud alumnus from a century ago.
Moreover, she celebrated a remarkable generational milestone as both of her younger grandchildren are also set to graduate from the institution in 2024.
“These two occasions have created a generational connection within our family,” she reflected.
Ackerman, renowned for her unwavering commitment to altruism, has long been a champion for equality and non-discrimination.
“I fought for non-discrimination and getting rid of prejudice, embracing people for who they were, irrespective of race or religion,” she asserted. Education, she remarked, has always been a cornerstone of her mission.
Wendy Ackerman, a co-founder and honorary life president of Pick n Pay, has pursued a lifelong dedication to enhancing the lives of others.
Her advocacy for women's empowerment in the 1970s remains a cornerstone of her achievements within the retail sector, marking her as a visionary when many regarded her initiatives as overly progressive.
Today, Ackerman devotes much of her energy to various philanthropic initiatives, particularly focusing on the vulnerable and underprivileged. Her passion for education is evident through her involvement in numerous bursary schemes since 1973, which support deserving students in fields such as music and medicine.
Her former recipients have gone on to achieve remarkable acclaim, performing with some of the world's leading orchestras and opera houses. Additionally, as a trustee of the Pick n Pay bursary fund, she plays a vital role in supporting the children of the retailer's employees.
Ackerman's commitment extends beyond education; she is a steadfast advocate for the arts in the Cape Metropole. Her extensive efforts in creating an endowment trust to support the arts in Cape Town underscore her dedication, particularly to the city's opera and philharmonic orchestra.
Furthermore, she remains devoted to environmental preservation and the welfare of animals, combining her philanthropic interests with a focus on sustainability.
Wendy Ackerman's impactful legacy represents not only her lifelong commitment to philanthropy but also a relentless pursuit of equality and empowerment.
Her work continues to inspire countless individuals and organisations in their quest to make a positive difference in society.
Weekend Argus