Marjorie Crocombe awarded Doctor of letters
Prime Minister Henry Puna today paid tribute to Cook Islands noted author and academic, Marjorie Crocombe O.B.E. who was today awarded a Doctorate of Letters (honoris causa) at the University of the South Pacific graduation ceremony.
Speaking at a special luncheon held in her honour, Prime Minister Puna the award was fittingly conferred on Marjorie Crocombe in recognition of her outstanding published work and research in the humanities which shows “‘conspicuous ability and originality to the humanities and constitutes a distinguished and sustained achievement’.”
One of the first graduates from USP in 1971 (Bachelor of Education and History), Marjorie has published seven books and been an extensive writer and contributor to articles, journals and papers on subjects ranging from information technology, to Pacific women, education and Pacific literature - to name a few.
Educated at Titikaveka Primary School between 1936-1944 her subsequent education took her to Colleges and Universities in New Zealand, California, Papua New Guinea, Hawaii and Suva.
From there Marjorie went on to hold influential professional posts as a teacher, lecturer, senior lecturer, reader and director at those colleges and universities. Her organisational responsibilities and roles have included being a patron, deputy chair, advisory board member, president and trustee of various committees and societies in the Cook Islands and overseas.
A champion of oral poetry and literature in Pacific Island societies she and her husband Emeritus Professor Ron Crocombe are renowned for encouraging Pacific writers to examine aspects of contemporary life through their poetry, art and stories.
Prime Minister Puna told the gathering at the Rarotongan Resort that Marjorie’s achievements had put the Cook Islands on the map and revealed the values of Cook Islands peoples in her writings.
“Your combined passion and commitment has inspired many. You have set the stage and you are a shining example to our young Cook Islands people in our communities in the Cook Islands and abroad.”
“On behalf of the people and the government of the Cook Islands I am indeed privileged to be here to celebrate and to honour you Marjorie - as the first woman in the Cook Islands - to be recognized and awarded the Honorary Doctorate of Letters.”
“ May you and your many works live on.”
- PM Office Media Release

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