EIT’s commitment to Pasifika students was strengthened when Mary Suni Robertson joined our Pasifika student support team.

Mary works from the Pouwhirinaki walk-in space in the Hawke’s Bay campus Twist Library. Students can call in for one on one help with study, funding and personal matters.

“I’m keen to help Pasifika students succeed in their tertiary studies, to see them engaged, enjoying and achieving their goals and aspirations,” says Mary.

Mary, who also works part-time in family law at the Hawke’s Bay community law centre, provides advice to EIT teaching staff to ensure their practices are culturally aware.  Occasionally she also shares with classes insight into Pasifika community development and social justice issues such as the dawn raids of the 1970s.

You may have already met Mary in the community. She and Rhys Thurston, EIT Māori and Pasifika liaison advisor, visit schools, churches and other community events talking with leaders and students alike, to share how EIT can help Pasifika students.