Emeritus Professor Kathy Driver (1947–2026)

3 June 1947–13 June 2026

The University of Cape Town (UCT) community mourns Emeritus Professor Kathy Driver, who passed away after a short illness on 13 June 2026 at the age of 79.

She joined UCT in 2006 as the dean of the Faculty of Science, becoming the first woman to occupy this position, and bringing with her decades of experience from the University of the Witwatersrand, where she had served as professor and the head of Mathematics. At UCT, she approached leadership less as administration and more as a way of making space for others to thrive. That meant supporting colleagues and paying attention to the everyday environments where teaching and research happen, as well as actively encouraging the sharpening of the focus of those endeavours to prioritise sustainable standards of excellence.

A mathematician by training and temperament, her research focused on special functions, orthogonal polynomials and approximation theory. Those who worked with her recognised the same qualities in her leadership: she was thorough and thoughtful; enthusiastic in her work; and known for a dry, witty sense of humour. She was also known for her love of large cups of sweet tea, which saw her through many working days.

Her academic journey was itself a lesson to many. After early success, she returned later in life to complete her PhD, balancing scholarship with family and teaching. She spoke openly about this path, encouraging younger academics, particularly women, to pursue ambition without apology, but with realism and care.

After stepping down as dean in 2011, she continued as a professor before becoming emeritus professor in 2013. Her impact extended well beyond formal titles – through her students, her colleagues, and her commitment to strengthening science in South Africa. Kathy’s contributions were widely recognised, including her election to the Academy of Science of South Africa.

From 2011, Kathy returned to another passion – bridge – playing at a competitive level. She represented South Africa in the seniors’ team alongside her late husband, Gordon Driver. Among her achievements were participation in the World Mind Sports Games in 2012 and representing Africa in the World Seniors Team Championships in 2017.

She is remembered not only for what she achieved, but for the way she approached her work. There was a sense of integrity and generosity in how she went about things, and a belief that meaningful work takes time to build.

She is survived by her daughters, Jacquie and Penny. She will be deeply missed by the many people whose lives and careers she helped shape.