Lagipoiva Dr Cherelle Jackson created history at Portland State University in the United States as she became the first-ever Professor of Pacific Islander and Asian American Studies.

For the next two years, Dr. Jackson will play a critical role in developing PSU’s new curriculum.

A globally recognised scholar, Dr Jackson is also a climate journalist and advocate. 

“I have spent the past two decades documenting and elevating the lived experiences of frontline communities in the Pacific,” Jackson said.

Her goal in this new role is to preserve and share the knowledge of AAPI communities. "This knowledge, passed down from generation to generation, has endured colonisation, migration and climate upheaval," she said.

Dr Jackson is also a matai or Samoan chieftess. She shared a glimpse into her culture during Wednesday’s celebration through traditional rituals.

In 2023, PSU received federal distinction as Oregon’s only public university recognised as an Asian American and Native American/Pacific Islander-serving institution. The designation comes with a $2 million grant to develop programs for AAPI students.

“I look forward to working alongside all of you to grow Pacific scholarship, climate justice and culturally-rooted learning here at PSU,” Dr Jackson said.

According to PSU, Pacific Islanders are among the fastest-growing populations in Oregon, growing by 54 per cent between 2010 and 2020.