The new Deputy Vice-Chancellor Māori, Distinguished Professor Graham Hingangaroa Smith was welcomed to Te Kunenga Ki Pūrehuroa on Monday 11 February in a stirring pōwhiri at Te Pūtahi-a-Toi on the Manawatū campus.
Professor Smith was accompanied by a large contingent of whānau from Ngāti Apa, Ngāti Porou and Ngāti Kahungunu as well as friends and colleagues from Te Wānanga o Awanuiārangi where he was the CEO. It was an enjoyable day for the 200 people who attended under a blazing sun.
Professor Smith says he is excited about the new role and looking forward to working with Māori staff, students and other colleagues throughout the University. He is also looking forward to leading the university’s engagement with iwi and international links with indigenous academic colleagues and their communities.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Jan Thomas warmly welcomed him, saying Massey University was extraordinarily fortunate to have someone of his calibre take on the position. “One element of the Massey University Council-approved strategy is that we are Te Tiriti o Waitangi-led. Professor Smith will play a pivotal role in taking this forward across the university.”