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PREL scholar is first Marshallese to get doctorate
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Posted on Nov 23 2004
Hilda Heine has become the first Marshall Islander to receive a doctoral degree. In August she completed the requirements for her doctorate in Education from the University of Southern California.
Heine, who is a senior scholar at Pacific Resources for Education and Learning, was formerly Education Secretary for the Marshall Islands and president of the College of the Marshall Islands. Heine’s dissertation research studied successful Marshallese students in the United States.
The research showed that Marshallese immigrant communities are marginalized and that Marshallese students have limited knowledge of and support from school and community resources and networks.
Heine also found that certain personal assets, including a strong internal locus of control, clear goals, and a commitment to give back to the group, characterize successful Marshallese students. High family expectations and close supervision also contribute to student success.
Heine said she looks forward to continuing her research at PREL.
PREL is an independent, nonprofit corporation that serves the education community in Hawaii, the U.S.-affiliated Pacific islands, the continental United States, and countries throughout the world.
For more information, visit PREL’s website at www.prel.org or contact Julian Heinz by phone at (808) 441-1382 or by email at heinzj@prel.org.
