From the desk of our Chief Operating Officer, Prof Stan du Plessis: I recently watched the movie Conclave. It is a film about the Roman Catholic Church finding itself under tremendous pressure and the cardinals must select a new pope – one of the world’s most secretive and ancient events. While busy with this task, Cardinal Lawrence, the dean of the college of cardinals, uncovers a trail of deep secrets that could shake the very foundation of the church. In the mid of the crisis, one of the lesser-known cardinals spoke these incredible words: “The church is not tradition. The church is not the past. The church is what we do next”. I feel the same about this past year at Stellenbosch University (SU), and the many difficulties that beset us. SU is not the past or its traditions: SU is what we will do next. What we do next, in 2025 and beyond, will create the fantastic University we aspire to be.  This last year was also another year of very hard work and significant achievements in all our divisions. Our annual report to council runs over 118 pages long and for these incredible accolades I want to thank you all for your dedicated work and commitment to our University.  This year we once again celebrated ten colleagues who have exemplified SU’s values in their work. These colleagues have not just performed excellently but have inspired us to do better. This is an example of what I call, and you have heard me say this before: earned respect, to colleagues who have done something - or have acted in a way - that we recognise as important for all of us collectively, and that serves as an example to all of us. I want to emphasise this last point: It is about being an example. Every year, when I read their achievements and watch their videos, I realise what a bunch of talented staff members we have in our RC. Just when I thought I knew you all, I hear about a hidden talent or a remarkable achievement and how colleagues take hands across divisions and get the job done. Thank you, colleagues. You inspire me. To each and every one who has given so much more of themselves to get us through 2024, thank you so much. I wish you all a well-deserved break with your family and friends. Travel safe and see you all in the new year. Prof Stan du Plessis ​