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A generous donation of shares caps off successful RU120 US resource mobilisation drive
Date Released: Mon, 3 March 2025 08:24 +0200New York-based investment banker, philanthropist and Board member of the Rhodes University USA Trust, Justine Mannering, has capped off the success of a spectacular year-long Rhodes University’s 120th anniversary in 2024 with a year-end share donation.
The share donation accepted by the Rhodes University USA Trust valued at ~R70,000 added to a healthy stream of targeted income from the international alumni in North America for the year to support undergraduate bursaries, postgraduate research, and sports.
Mannering, a Managing Director in TD Securities Consumer Investment Banking Group, joined the Rhodes University USA Trust Board early last year to support fundraising activities for the landmark RU120 campaign in North America. At the time, the University welcomed Mannering as a “capable and supportive Old Rhodian, a powerhouse of positive energy for good causes.”
It is always a significant advantage when Old Rhodians join in such meaningful ways to make Rhodes University continue to stand out in delivering excellence globally as it has done for 120 years,” the University said at the time.
Acknowledging the gift, the Rhodes University USA Trust Chair, Mr Donavan Neale-May, expressed his appreciation on behalf of Rhodes University, stating, “like many, we owe a great deal to Rhodes and its contributions to our growth so great to see alumni giving back.”
These donations signify important steps in the University’s ongoing positive transformation in Rhodes University’s international fundraising approach under the aegis of the RU120 anniversary project and emphasising results-driven excellence as a key value proposition for donors.
In 2024, the University hosted over 56 RU120 events worldwide under the theme of “reconnecting, reuniting, and reimagining together” with alumni, friends of Rhodes and other key stakeholders.
"The continued support from alumni and donors helps Rhodes University sustain excellence and build an even more resilient and sustainable future. While most of the RU120 events have been officially completed, resource mobilisation for key University fundraising priorities remains a critical strategic focus area, particularly on the international front," RU120 Project Manager, Dr Luzuko Jacobs said.
Source:The Division of Communication and Advancement