Harvard students carry out research in conjunction with local DHS

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Emily Ratté and Rachel Jimenez, two Harvard Graduate students, are working on their joint Master’s thesis in collaboration with the American Samoa Department of Homeland Security (ASDHS).

Their research encompasses a comprehensive comparative assessment of emergency management capabilities in other territories, states, and Pacific Islands. The focus is on identifying best practices for effectively serving access and functional needs populations during disasters.

The women’s inspiration for this project came about from their visit last year when they met with community members as part of a previous course project. Chief of Staff Loa Tuimavave Tauapa’i Laupola facilitated their connection with ASDHS.

“I am pleased to welcome the esteemed Harvard graduate students who will be conducting research in American Samoa,” Governor Lemanu P.S. Mauga said in a press release issued Wednesday, March 13. “The presence of these scholars from Harvard University provides an invaluable opportunity for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and mutual learning. Their research endeavors will not only contribute to the advancement of academic scholarship but also offer fresh perspectives and insights that can inform evidence-based policymaking and community development efforts.”

They are scheduled to have discussions with selected ASG agencies that play a role in emergency and crisis management should a disaster make landfall in the territory.