Karl Rangikawhiti Leonard, the Fulbright Scholar-in-Residence at Flathead Valley Community College, will continue his popular lecture series with a three-part presentation on New Zealand’s Maori people.
The Maoris are the Polynesian indigenous people of New Zealand whose culture is still an integral part of the country’s life today.
The lecture series will begin Feb. 21 with Leonard’s presentation on the origins and migrations of the Maori cosmos and carving and clothing of the Maori people. On March 14, Leonard will discuss Maori wars and history. The series will conclude April 18 with Leonard’s presentation on living as Maori in today’s world which will include an overview of education, politics, social and economic development and tribal initiatives of the Maori people.
Leonard arrived at FVCC last fall from Ngongoth?, Rotorua, New Zealand, through a Fulbright Foundation grant awarded to the college. Leonard holds a master’s degree in Maori language and management and brings a lifetime of experience in traditional Maori art forms including weaving, carving, and dance.
All lectures are open to the public and begin at 6 p.m. They will be held in the large community meeting room inside the Arts and Technology Building on the college’s campus.
For more information, contact the FVCC Multicultural Affairs Office at 756-3945 or at [email protected].