South Africa’s Helderberg College Welcomes First Female President
28 August 2023 |
In a historic move, Helderberg College of Higher Education (HCHE) in Cape Town, South Africa, has appointed its first female President in its 130-year history, according to a recent announcement by the Helderberg College Council. Professor Charlene René Reinecke will lead the institution, originally founded in 1893, which has been instrumental in producing missionaries who serve around the world.
Professor Reinecke is no stranger to the world of academia or to HCHE. Prior to her new appointment, she served as the Vice President for Academic Administration since 2013. She was also the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Education, formerly known as the Faculty of Letters, from 2006 to 2012. Reinecke, who holds a PhD in Philosophy (Psychology) from the University of Stellenbosch, has been lauded for her extensive experience in higher education administration, knowledge, and lecturing capabilities.
Located in the picturesque town of Somerset West, on the slopes of Helderberg Mountain and overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, HCHE has long been a beacon for holistic education. Emphasizing the development of the “whole person – head, heart, and hand,” the institution prepares students not only for their professional roles but also instills values, ethics, and a passion for service. Professor Reinecke is expected to enrich this educational philosophy, given her background and commitment to excellence in higher education.