On August 29, we commemorate the birthday of Dr. Joakim Peter, a remarkable individual whose legacy lives on through the Dr. Joakim Peter Memorial Scholarship fund. This initiative is supported fiscally by We Are Oceania (WAO), a non-profit organization based in Hawaii. Although I may not have all the details about his extensive contributions, it’s evident that Dr. Peter had a profound impact on his colleagues, friends, and family. The achievements shared here only scratch the surface of his remarkable journey. This celebration serves as a tribute to his work and the lasting influence he had on those around him. Despite our limited understanding, we acknowledge his significant contributions, and his memory continues to inspire us.
Dr. Joakim Peter was a distinguished individual known for his contributions to education, advocacy, and community development, particularly within the context of the Pacific islander community. He held multiple degrees and played various significant roles throughout his career. Some key points about Dr. Joakim Peter include:
Educational Background: Dr. Joakim Peter earned degrees from the University of Guam and the University of Hawaiʻi. He attained two Master’s degrees, one in history and another in Pacific island studies. He further pursued a Ph.D. in Exceptionalities.
Career in Micronesia: Dr. Peter served as the Cultural and Education Specialist and Director of the Chuuk campus at the College of Micronesia – FSM for a span of 15 years. During this time, he also took an active role in the Chuuk Disabled Persons Association and was a founding member of the FSM Disability Council.
Advocacy in Hawaiʻi: In 2011, Dr. Peter moved to Hawaiʻi to pursue his doctoral studies. He became a strong advocate for the COFA (Compact of Free Association) community in Hawaiʻi and the United States. He co-founded “We Are Oceania,” an organization aimed at providing support to Micronesian communities in Hawaiʻi. In this organization, he served as the Community Advocacy Manager.
Support for Marginalized Communities: Dr. Peter worked as an Outreach Liaison at the Legal Aid Society of Hawai‘i between 2013 and 2017. In this capacity, he supported Micronesian diaspora communities in Honolulu and other homeless populations. He also held the position of Senior Specialist for Community Engagement and Educational Equity at Pacific Resources in Education and Learning (PREL), an organization focused on enhancing education across the Pacific region.
Accolades and Achievements: Dr. Peter’s dedication to advocacy and community work earned him recognition. He was named the 2018 Distinguished Alumnus by the Center for Pacific Islands Studies at the School of Pacific and Asian Studies. He also co-authored an autobiography, “Coconut Ratz & Kung Fu Cowboys: Tales of a Pacific Islander’s Childhood,” with Dr. Jim Skouge.
Civil Rights Commission: Dr. Joakim Peter made history by becoming the first Micronesian commissioner appointed by Governor David Ige to the Hawai‘i State Civil Rights Commission. This appointment underscores his commitment to advocating for the rights and interests of marginalized communities.
Legacy:Unfortunately, Dr. Joakim Peter passed away on April 9, 2019, at the Kuakini Medical Center in Honolulu. His contributions to education, advocacy, and community development continue to leave a lasting impact on the Micronesian and Pacific islander communities.
The Dr. Joakim Peter Scholarship fund is accepting donations to fund their scholarship program that awards two applicants a year. To contribute, please click here.