For more than three decades, Jillian Marthinussen has been part of the heartbeat of Stellenbosch University’s Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences. As one of its longest-serving staff members, she has witnessed the transformation of the Stellenbosch Business School (SBS) from its early days into the dynamic, future-focused institution it is today.

Jillian’s story begins far from bustling lecture halls and digital classrooms. The youngest of six children, she grew up on a farm near Stormsvlei in the Overberg. Her father — a school principal, teacher and preacher originally from the old Transkei — instilled in her the values of education, service and perseverance that would guide her throughout her life.

After the family moved to Cape Town, Jillian matriculated and completed a one-year secretarial course before starting her professional journey. In May 1994, after marrying and starting a family, she joined SBS as a part-time receptionist under the leadership of Prof David (Dave) Tromp.

“It suited me perfectly at the time, as my three children – a girl and two boys – were still small,” she recalls with a smile.

Two years later, she transitioned into academic administration and later into academic support — a role in which she continues to make a quiet but profound impact. Today, Jillian serves as assistant to the Head of the Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) programme, while also supporting other academics with dedication and grace.

Over her 31 years at SBS, Jillian has seen countless changes — in leadership, structure and even in the very walls around her. “We’ve come a long way from almost archaic lecture rooms and offices to digitally smart buildings that have so much to offer to students and staff alike,” she says. “The diversity profile of the staff complement has also improved over the years.”

What hasn’t changed, though, is Jillian’s commitment to the people she works with — and for. She treasures the interaction with students, whose varied life experiences bring fresh perspectives to her day. “The most rewarding part of my job is knowing that those I look after see me as competent and trust me to be loyal and discerning,” she says.

Her warmth and integrity have earned her the admiration of colleagues across the School. Long-time co-worker Cynthia Lategan-Kriel describes her as “always willing to help, no matter how busy she is. She brings warmth, professionalism and genuine kindness to everything she does, and it’s simply been a joy to have her as part of our team.”

Prof Marlize Terblanche-Smit, one of the academics supported by Jillian, also mentions Jillian’s warmth, calmness and compassion. “Jill has an incredible ability to make you feel like you’re the only person she works for by knowing and caring about your work and personal life.

“She is so much more than a personal assistant. She is resourceful, flexible, strategic, professional, pro-active and continuously takes on new responsibilities out of the scope of her job. Her knowledge and understanding of the systems, policies and requirements of both the University and the Business School are exceptional,” added Prof Terblanche-Smit.

Over the years, Jillian’s career has been marked by both milestones and memories — from an unforgettable overseas trip in 2006 to visit European universities with fellow administrative staff, to recognition for sustained excellence and her long-service award for 25 years of dedication.

Beyond the office, Jillian lives a balanced and full life. She enjoys yoga, long walks and puzzles — and admits she’s fond of a good TV series. She and her husband have been avid theatre-goers, with fond memories of performances by David Kramer and Taliep Petersen at the Baxter Theatre, as well as lively ghoema and jazz shows.

These days, her greatest joy lies in family moments. With her three adult children and their spouses gathering for holidays, she looks forward to a festive family Christmas — complete, of course, with her beloved fruit cake. The butterfly and fish-shaped birthday cakes of years gone by may be memories now, but the warmth and care that went into them still reflect the essence of who Jillian is: devoted, creative and full of heart.

After 31 years, Jillian’s contribution to the Stellenbosch Business School is more than her role title can capture. She is part of its living history — a steady presence who has supported generations of students and colleagues with loyalty, sincerity and quiet strength.