We are proud to celebrate Professor Tracie Mafile’o, Avondale University’s Research Professor and Associate Dean (Research and Research Training), on her recent appointment as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) in recognition of her outstanding contributions to Pacific and tertiary education. This prestigious honour reflects her commitment and leadership, exemplifying the values and aspirations of our wider academic community.
Across a career of more than thirty years, Professor Mafile’o has been a driving force in ensuring that Pacific people lead their own research and tell their stories. In her work across three universities and as co-founder of Mana Pacific Consultants, she has worked tirelessly to shift research agendas so they are shaped and determined by Pacific communities themselves. She previously worked at one of Avondale University’s partner universities, Pacific Adventist University, where she spear-headed the development of postgraduate research degrees and served as the institution’s first woman Deputy Vice-Chancellor. At Avondale University she has led research on Indigenous community development, grit in ministry and families in Australia and collaborates on research with other universities including co-leading a Pasifika study on healthy aging. Her work has empowered a new generation of Pacific scholars to bring their lived experience and cultural knowledge into academic spaces, helping to transform the landscape of higher education and research.
A significant part of her legacy is the co-development of the Cultural Humility Framework, a practical and influential tool designed to support organisations and practitioners in better serving Pacific youth and families. The framework emphasises both individual and organisational cultural responsiveness, ensuring engagement with Pacific communities is not only effective but grounded in respect, understanding, and cultural identity. Its impact continues to grow as more organisations adopt culturally attuned and strengths-based approaches.
Professor Mafile’o’s journey has been shaped by the influence and sacrifices of those who came before her including family members and mentors who instilled in her a deep passion for education, service, and community leadership. Her approach to leadership is marked by a strong sense of responsibility to uplift others, particularly emerging scholars and practitioners. She is widely recognised for her commitment to mentoring, opening doors, and creating pathways for growth within the sector.
As a valued member of our academic staff at Avondale University, Professor Mafile’o’s appointment as a MNZM serves as an inspiration to colleagues and students alike, highlighting the profound impact that dedicated culturally grounded scholarship can have on individuals, communities and society as a whole. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Professor Mafile’o on this well-deserved recognition and look forward to supporting her continued leadership and innovation in the years ahead.