Lecture at UPEI to examine astronomy’s impact of Hawaii

CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. — The next presentation in the Island Studies lecture series will examine the importance and popularity of astronomy on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Master of arts and island studies student Emerald Naylor will speak about her research on Tuesday, Feb. 19, 7 p.m., in the faculty lounge of UPEI’s SDU Main Building. All are welcome. Admission to the lecture is free. For more information, contact Laurie at [email protected] or 902-894-2881.

In “More than sun and pineapples: A look into the culture of astronomical sciences in Hawaii,” Naylor will reflect on her recent trip to the Big Island, sharing her observations of astronomy culture and the importance of showcasing Western and Hawaiian perspectives.

The project focuses on the impact of the 13 telescopes on Maunakea and how relationships between Hawaiians and Western astronomers are navigated. Naylor will also discuss what the current tensions may mean for the future of astronomy on Maunakea.

Naylor is a second-year student in the master of arts in island studies program at UPEI. She graduated from the University of Waterloo on the dean’s honours list, with a bachelor’s degree in English literature and history.

An avid participant in the arts from a young age, she is now a writer and freelance choreographer and dancer. Naylor was previously a member of the Waterloo Region Record's Youth Editorial Board, St. Jerome’s Student Activities Committee and the Canadian Association for Commonwealth Literature and Language Studies. A member of the International Small Island Studies Association and the vice-president of UPEI’s Graduate Student Association, she is also the recipient of many awards, including the Joseph Armand Bombardier Canada Graduate Scholarship.