In the past perceived cognitive potential, more than any other factor, was viewed as a predictor for a stable life and future success. The concept of "emotional intelligence" (EI), however, provides a useful instrument to describe the intricate configuration of interrelated factors that play a role in predicting a person's success in life. Using the merger between the former Pretoria Teacher's Training College and the University of Pretoria as a backdrop, the research reported in this article attempts to establish the emotional intelligence profiles of academics in a merger setting. The qualitative section of the research involves a study of the literature on certain aspects of the phenomenon "emotional intelligence", whereas the quantitative part of the research involves the administration of the BarOn EQ-i[TM] measure to 53 participants who have all been involved in the above-mentioned merger. The results of the study provide statistical evidence of how a drastic life-changing event, such as a "merger" between two higher education institutions, may hamper the actualization of academics' intellectual potential. The research accentuates the importance of timeous and continued assessment of the ongoing functioning and well-being of academics who have been involved in a merger and it underlines the need for tailor-made training programs that may help improve the emotional skills and functioning of such academics.