Motivation for nominating Dr. Marion Stevens to the University of Cape Town Convocation Executive Committee

Dr. Marion Stevens is a leading expert in sexual and reproductive justice with over 30 years of interdisciplinary experience in midwifery, medical anthropology, public development management, and political science. She founded the Sexual and Reproductive Justice Coalition in South Africa and served on WHO’s Gender Advisory Panel. Her PhD explored post-apartheid shifts in reproductive health policy, emphasizing the enduring effects of colonialism and apartheid.

She is a trusted advisor to numerous agencies working in the field of sexual and reproductive health rights and justice, further illustrating her influence and leadership in both academic and practical domains.

Dr. Stevens’s extensive experience and visionary leadership make her exceptionally well-suited to serve on a university convocation committee. She will bring:

• Interdisciplinary Perspective: Drawing on her background across multiple disciplines, Dr. Stevens will foster holistic and inclusive discussions that consider social, cultural, and political dimensions, enriching the committee’s deliberations and decisions.

• Commitment to Equity and Justice: Her dedication to sexual and reproductive justice ensures that the committee’s work is guided by principles of fairness, inclusivity, and respect for human rights, creating a more equitable academic environment.

• Strategic Vision: Dr. Stevens’s experience in policy development and advocacy equips her to help set bold, forward-thinking goals for the convocation, aligning university activities with global trends and local needs in health and social justice.

• Consensus Building: Her proven ability to unite diverse stakeholders around shared goals will help the committee navigate complex issues and achieve constructive, collaborative outcomes.

• Mentorship and Capacity Building: Through her leadership, Dr. Stevens will nurture emerging leaders and encourage critical engagement, supporting students and faculty in contributing to the university’s mission and broader societal change.

• Ethical Leadership: Upholding the highest standards of integrity and accountability, she will promote transparent, responsible governance within the convocation.

Dr. Marion Stevens’s distinguished career and unwavering commitment to justice position her as an invaluable leader for a university convocation committee. Her expertise promises to inspire transformative change, foster inclusive participation, and uphold the values of equity and academic excellence at the heart of the university community.

Nominator: Dr Karen Daniels, DNLKAR002

Seconder: Ms Tanya Layne (registered as Goldman), GLDTAN001

Dr Marion Stevens CV