WITS.FOR GOOD

I LOVE LOOKING at early photos of Wits. Majestic buildings arranged in a formal configuration that arose out of barren ground. The stature and gravitas of these structures in a setting of mine dumps and a fledgling city is breathtaking and one has to admire the ambitious vision of the University’s founders. To this day, the Wits Great Hall is the iconic image of an institution of higher learning, used by the media whenever there is a generic story about universities.

With a hundred years of history, Wits University and all those who have worked and studied here have many fascinating stories to tell. These stories are intertwined with the tragedies of apartheid, a world war and a deeply unequal society. They are stories of struggle and sorrow, of courage and bravery, of awakening and discovery.

One consequence of our complex history is a depth of character that binds us together through the generations and provides an enduring impulse to do good.

One could not only write a book, but build a library of books, about Witsies who have contributed to the betterment of their community, country, and indeed the world. Throughout its history, Wits has stayed true to the intent of its founders who aspired that it be a university that not only prepares students for a career, but also for a life of service to society.

It is therefore apt that the University’s new positioning statement and Centenary Campaign theme is Wits. For Good a tagline that reflects a defining attribute of Wits and Witsies as a force for good.

Wits. For Good is about progress and moving forward; creating new knowledge to advance humanity. It is about nurturing researchers, scientists, artists, business leaders, sports persons, innovators, teachers and critical thinkers who contribute to growth in our country, continent and the world. It is about celebrating all that has been achieved through Witsies’ positive impact; it is about aspiring to leave things better than we found them and a brighter future.

While Wits will always give students the edge, the Centenary tagline invites all Witsies, wherever they may be in the world, to celebrate the good that Wits has done over the past century and contribute to ensuring that Wits remains a powerful force for good in its next century.

Peter Maher, Director, Alumni Relations

For the public good. For the good of all people. For the good of future generations. For the good of our country. For the good of our economy. For the good of an inclusive community. For the advancement of our society. For you and for me. For yesterday, today and tomorrow. For our collective futures.