P¯owhiri for professor in new role
THE University of Otago’s firstever deputy vicechancellor Ma¯ori, Prof Jacinta Ruru, says she was humbled and overwhelmed by her welcoming.
Apo ¯whiri at O¯ ta¯kou Marae for Prof Ruru took place yesterday morning.
‘‘It’s a huge moment for myself and a huge moment for the University of Otago.
‘‘I’m absolutely humbled and overwhelmed by the occasion.’’
Prof Ruru said the role would empower Ma¯ori academic leadership, and increase the university’s relationship with mana whenua.
‘‘I’m looking forward to seeing how that relationship is forged, and supercharging the experience not only for Ma¯ori students but also the experience for university students across the board.’’
Prof Ruru was New Zealand’s first Ma¯ori professor of law and the first to be recognised as a fellow of the Royal Society, along with Prof Linda Tuhiwai Smith.
Prof Ruru has received significant awards including the prime minister’s supreme teaching excellence award in 2016 and the University of
Otago’s distinguished research medal in 2022.
She is also a member of the New Zealand Order of Merit and is a FulbrightNga¯ Pae o te Ma¯ramatanga Ma¯ori Centre of Research Excellence senior Ma¯ori scholar.
Chancellor Stephen Higgs said Prof Ruru’s appointment was a momentous occasion, and part of broader progressions¯with both mana whenua and Ota¯kou Marae.
This included the adoption of the new Ma¯ori logo and te reo name for the university, which would soon be officially launched, an updated Ma¯ori strategic framework and a draft memorandum of understanding with O¯ ta¯kou Marae.
‘‘There is still much to do,’’ he said.
Other speakers yesterday included Edward Ellison, Hata Temo and Turi Ngatai.