Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti
2 days ago
Dr Sally Rye (Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāti Porou) has been appointed as Head of Research at EIT, marking a return to the institution where her academic journey began.
She brings more than a decade of experience across education, health, and social development, with a strong focus on kaupapa Māori and community-led research.
Sally returns to Hawke’s Bay after holding national roles in the tertiary and public sectors, most recently at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa.
Dr Sally Rye (Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāti Porou) has been appointed Head of Research at EIT.
Her interdisciplinary background includes business development, social work, youth development, mental health, addictions, and teaching.
She is widely recognised for her innovative approach to research centred on wellbeing, equity, and mātauranga Māori.
She says the decision to take on the role was grounded in a desire to contribute to her own community and invest in the future of her mokopuna.
“EIT is deeply embedded in this region. For me, this role is about returning home — not just geographically, but to a place that shaped who I am. I’m here to support a research culture that reflects our people, our priorities and our potential,” she says.
Her vision includes strengthening communities of practice, where staff and external partners can collaborate on shared kaupapa, and making research more visible, vibrant, and relevant to everyday life.
“I want to shift the perception of research from something isolated or academic to something aspirational, creative and community driven. Whether it’s improving local health outcomes, celebrating cultural knowledge, or informing how we teach, research should be part of everything we do.”
Sally also brings a deeply personal connection to her research practice. Her doctoral work explored the relationship between gut health, brain function and wellbeing — a journey inspired by her own health challenges. This work evolved into a holistic, kaupapa Māori programme that helped hundreds of wāhine Māori reclaim their hauora through nutrition, spirituality, connection, and movement.
She remains active in both national and international research spaces and recently presented at the Eru Pōmare Centre at Otago University in Wellington.
Sally was formally welcomed onto the Taradale campus at a pōwhiri in February and officially began her role in March. She is currently connecting with staff across all EIT campuses and welcomes interest from those keen to collaborate or join a community of research practice.
Dr Helen Ryan-Stewart, EIT’s Executive Dean, Education, Humanities and Health Science, said: “We are delighted to welcome Sally to EIT”.
“Her experience across various disciplines combined with her passion for research and rangahau provide a perfect fit for our institution. Sally’s vision aligns with EIT’s goals and values, and her leadership will drive our research and innovation space forward.”
