Gerald S.A. Perez, an adjunct faculty member at UOG, passed his doctoral dissertation defense this month in the  interdisciplinary studies program at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. Interdisciplinary studies is a customized degree program that combines coursework from two or more disciplines.

Perez’s doctorate is in tourism development and public policy, focusing on perceptions of the Chuukese community.

His inspiration to pursue a doctorate came from his late wife, Karri T. Perez, who was a longtime faculty member of UOG, who he said valued being a lifelong learner.

“I am feeling and living the legacy of my wife’s ‘gift’ to me and the children,” he said.

Perez has been an adjunct professor at UOG since 2011, teaching classes under the School of Business and Public Administration in leadership, contracting, international marketing, economics, and others.

He also holds a master’s in wildlife management and a bachelor’s in forestry from the University of Idaho.

He will receive his degree at the commencement ceremony on May 4 in Alaska.