In remembrance
In remembrance: Associate Professor Cathleen Powell
18 February 2025Dear colleagues and students
It is with deep sadness to announce the passing of our colleague Associate Professor Cathleen Powell (56), the head of the Department of Public Law. Associate Professor Powell passed away at her home on Saturday, 15 February 2025 after a short illness.
Her relationship with the University of Cape Town (UCT) started when she enrolled for a Bachelor of Arts degree, graduating in 1991. This was followed by a graduation with an LLB in 1993. She joined the Faculty of Law in 1999 as a lecturer in public law. Apart from holding degrees from UCT, Associate Professor Powell held an LLM from Humbolt University and an SJD from the University of Toronto.
She was promoted to senior lecturer in 2004, and to associate professor in 2018. From January 2023 until her passing, she was head of the Department of Public Law.
Her colleagues have described her as a respected scholar known for her teaching and research in constitutional law and international law. She was highly sought after by the media for public commentary on matters pertaining to constitutional governance and the use of force in international law.
Over her long career at UCT, Associate Professor Powell has taught many students at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. She has also led in broader university policy structures, including as chair of the Senate’s Animal Ethics Committee. She is known and widely respected within the university for her fearlessness and for standing up for what she believed was right and just.
The Faculty of Law will hold a memorial service to remember and celebrate Associate Professor Powell’s life on Thursday, 20 February 2025 from 12:30 to 14:00 in the Kramer Lecture Theatre 3. Funeral details are yet to be finalised and will be shared via departmental channels.
During this time of bereavement, the university conveys our sincere condolences to Associate Professor Powell’s family, friends and all who knew and loved her.
Sincerely
The UCT Executive
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