At the Richard F. Taitano Micronesian Area Research Center (MARC) at the University of Guam, extensive efforts are underway to integrate historical insights with contemporary challenges. This initiative highlights the importance of understanding Micronesia’s past to inform its future, encompassing a range of research from archaeology to international relations.
Archaeological Insights from Guam
Michael Carson, an associate professor of archaeology, plays a pivotal role in uncovering the region’s historical narrative. With decades of experience in the Asia-Pacific, Carson’s work includes significant publications such as *Archaeology of Pacific Oceania: Inhabiting a Sea of Islands* and the collaborative volume *Lina’la’: Portraits of Life at Litekyan*. Currently, he is collaborating with the U.S. National Park Service to explore archaeological resources within Guam’s federal park lands. Utilizing ground-penetrating radar, Carson aims to safely survey areas that may contain remnants of World War II munitions before conducting excavations. His ongoing research at Ritidian, part of the Guam National Wildlife Refuge, aims to enhance public understanding and build on previous archaeological findings.
Geopolitical Research and Diplomacy
Another significant area of focus at MARC is the geopolitical landscape of Micronesia, led by Kenneth Gofigan Kuper, an associate professor specializing in political science and Micronesian studies. Kuper’s work addresses pressing security issues and regional diplomacy, exemplified by his “Micronesian Diplomatic History Project.” This initiative is dedicated to preserving the experiences of Micronesian leaders through interviews and archival research, providing valuable lessons for future diplomatic efforts.
Kuper is also spearheading the development of a training program aimed at enhancing regional capacity in negotiation and foreign affairs. In addition, he is compiling oral histories from former governors of Guam to document their strategies regarding self-determination and economic development. This resource will play a crucial role in shaping Guam’s political future. Notably, in 2025, Kuper led MARC in becoming the official archiving partner of the Micronesian Islands Forum, where he oversees the creation of a centralized digital timeline and oral history project to support regional policymaking.
Preserving Traditional Knowledge
In a unique collaboration, master navigators and UOG professors Melissa Taitano and H. Larry Raigetal are working on a groundbreaking digital publication focused on Micronesian navigation and seafaring, part of UOG’s Island Wisdom initiative. Raigetal, who teaches traditional navigation and sailing canoe construction, alongside Taitano, who specializes in library science, aims to document and share the cultural knowledge systems that continue to guide island communities.
Supported by a grant from the Mellon Foundation through UOG Press, their project champions a digital-first publishing approach that prioritizes indigenous knowledge while enhancing regional publishing capabilities.
UOG Press and Regional Voices
UOG Press stands out as the primary publisher for Micronesian authors, artists, and scholars. As a member of the Association of University Presses and a partner with New York University Press, it has developed a significant collection of literary and academic works that amplify the stories and insights of local creators. UOG Press emphasizes cultural, environmental, and historical contexts, facilitating place-based learning and local voices in classrooms and libraries throughout Micronesia.
The press serves as an incubator for aspiring writers and artists, providing opportunities for local creatives to realize their ambitions of becoming published authors.
Through its extensive research, publications, and preservation initiatives, the Micronesian Area Research Center effectively connects the rich historical heritage of Guam with the region’s potential for future development. By safeguarding cultural knowledge, influencing policy, and empowering community voices, MARC exemplifies the commitment of UOG research to deliver public value—ultimately building resilience, enhancing understanding, and contributing to a stronger future for Micronesia.
Research programs at the Richard F. Taitano Micronesian Area Research Center benefit from the support of the University’s Office of Research and Sponsored Programs (ORSP). This office oversees grant acquisition and research initiatives across UOG’s nine research centers, facilitating over $60 million in awards annually to strengthen the region’s health, environment, and cultural resilience. For more information about research at the University of Guam, visit www.uog.edu/research.
