Leonie (in the grey coat, front right) with her whānau and supporters entering the marae
Leonie Pihama joined Unitec this week as our newest Professor. Her role is Professor of Māori Research at Ngā Wai a Te Tūī, Māori and Indigenous Research Centre.
Leonie was welcomed by Unitec whānau with a pōhiri at Te Noho Kotahitanga marae. She was supported by representatives from Waikato University, where she held her previous role as Director of Te Kotahi Research Institute, as well as representatives from Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi and University of Auckland along with colleagues, friends and family members.
Speakers on behalf of the manuhiri (guests) were Dr Apanui Skipper, Professor Pou Temara and Professor Linda Tuhiwai Smith.
Leonie and whānau enter Ngākau Māhaki
Keep an eye out for a feature article on Leonie soon, where she’ll give an insight into her background and her role at Ngā Wai a Te Tūī.
Dr Apanui Skipper speaking at the pōhiri
Leonie and Jenny Lee-Morgan share a hongi as Leonie joins the Unitec whānau
