The award announcement describes her as “a visionary teacher, mentor and leader, who has made an outstanding contribution to Pacific Studies in Australian and globally”

Associate Professor Teaiwa “contributes to many aspects of Pacific affairs, climate change, the arts and environmental justice in and beyond the classroom,” the citation states.

Universities Australia chair John Dewar announced her award yesterday at an on-line ceremony for the 2021 Australian Awards for University Teaching.

Professor Dewar also pointed to next year’s awards. They will be funded by Universities Australia – this years are the last paid for by the Commonwealth.