28 March 2024

After over two decades of dedicated service, CREST at Stellenbosch University is saying goodbye to one of its most longstanding employees. Ms. Lynn Lorenzen, who joined the department in July 2002, originally as a research assistant, has officially retired after almost 22 years of invaluable contributions.

Ms. Lorenzen’s impact on CREST extends far beyond her administrative roles over the years. She was instrumental in establishing and managing the CREST Documentation Centre (library), a vital resource for researchers, students, and staff alike. Under her meticulous care, the library grew into a comprehensive collection, housing over 13 000 academic materials and publications – including policy documents, journals, theses and grey literature – related to the department’s areas of study.

“Lynn has been an integral part of the CREST family for over two decades,” said Professor Johann Mouton, Director of SciSTIP. “Her dedication to maintaining an exceptional library has greatly facilitated our research endeavours and academic pursuits. We are immensely grateful for her unwavering commitment and the wealth of knowledge she has imparted.”

Colleagues and co-workers fondly recall Ms. Lorenzen’s friendly demeanour, her willingness to assist, and her encyclopaedic knowledge of the library’s holdings. Her departure leaves a significant void, but her legacy will undoubtedly endure through the countless individuals she has helped over the years.

As Ms. Lorenzen embarks on this new chapter of her life, the CREST community extends its heartfelt gratitude for her years of service and wishes her a joyful and fulfilling retirement. Her contributions have left an indelible mark on the department, and she will be deeply missed.