Submitted by Dianne Volek.
 

Please join me in congratulating Desiree Smal (FADA, University of Johannesburg) for being awarded the certificate of appreciation in recognition of outstanding excellence in postgraduate supervision. She achieved the highest weighted postgraduate graduation output in FADA for the 2025 reporting period.

But knowing Desiree, it comes as no surprise. I have seen firsthand the depth of her dedication.

I have worked alongside Desiree for most of my 20 years at DEFSA: initially she was a research author, then a research supervisor to many other authors, then a DEFSA committee member, through her time as Vice-President, then as DEFSA President, then finally a Senate Member.

During her vice-presidential year, Desiree co-hosted the very complex and innovative "Covid" 2021 conference together with Inscape - DEFSA's first virtual conference. Where most other associations simply cancelled, DEFSA went ahead

Through her ideas, her leadership (and the technical support of UJ) being "online" went from being a constraint, to allowing greater participation of universities across SADC as it removed travel budget constraints.

Desiree is the embodiment of true academic leadership. She is a patient and kind mentor who actively creates pathways for up-and-coming lecturers and researchers.

• She is an inclusive leader who inspires and makes all of us feel valued and empowered.
• She is innovative, open to new approaches that elevate design education, like the new research magazine. 
• Her tireless commitment to her students, her peers, and the wider design industry has continually put her institution on the map as a leader in innovation and design education.

Incredibly well deserved, Desiree! Thank you for everything you give back to our community.

Please congratulate her in the comments below the LinkedIn Post.