New director for Denis Hurley Centre

The Denis Hurley Centre (DHC) has appointed a new director, Bridget Ward, to replace Dr Raymond Perrier who has served at the centre since its inception in 2015. Ward is known for her extensive experience in business and faith-based organisations, having worked with major companies such as MTN, Standard Bank, and IMM. For the past twelve years, she has been involved with a Durban-based organization dedicated to uplifting society through Christian education.

Perrier requested that the DHC Trustees search for his successor and Ward was drawn to the Centre due to its consistent commitment to providing care for the poor and recognizing the value of the marginalized. She holds a Bachelor in Social Science from UKZN and was raised in a Catholic home. Ward will commence her role in September and work alongside Perrier in a comprehensive transition period, during which she will meet with various organisations and individuals who have partnered with the DHC.

Perrier commended the Board on Ward's selection, emphasizing her strong faith, business expertise, passion for the poor, and creative flair. He expressed confidence in her ability to lead the DHC, noting that the organization requires someone with these qualities. The current chair of the Trustees, Canon Dr Delysia Timm, praised Ward's commitment to justice, human dignity, compassion, and community, values that align with the Centre's mission.

The Trustees are confident that she will build upon the Centre's strong legacy while bringing fresh energy and vision to its work. Perrier, originally from the UK, plans to remain in South Africa but will spend more time in Johannesburg, where his husband resides. Following his departure, he intends to focus on writing a book as a Research Fellow at the University of Pretoria's Centre for Faith and Community.