English 
Español Adrienne L. Kaeppler
On March 5, 2022, the field of Polynesian studies lost one of its greatest scholars. Dr. Adrienne L. Kaeppler (1935–2022) was an enthusiastic researcher into the history, arts, and aesthetics of island societies, including Rapa Nui. In turn, she earned friendship and respect for her intellect, curiosity, kindness, and generosity. Adrienne was a dear friend, a treasured colleague, and a mentor to all who had the great privilege of knowing her during her long and rewarding career. Adrienne was a born archivist and curator, a woman who believed in preserving the past so that we all might live better in the future. She penned hundreds of books and articles that never lose their appeal because of her straightforward, honest approach to research and her intuitive command of studiously acquired knowledge. Adrienne leaves behind a treasure trove of information, a surfeit of warm memories, and a body of work that will challenge the imagination of all who share her interests for years to come. A tribute to her memory from her friends in Tonga can be found here.
Adrienne L. Kaeppler with Cristián Arévalo Pakarati, Rapa Nui, 2013.
Adrienne engrossed with the collections in Pat Kirch’s lab with Jo Anne Van Tilburg, UC Berkeley, 2015.