Tributes have been pouring in for the Papua New Guinea-based anthropologist and philanthropist, Dr Nancy Sullivan who was killed in a car crash in the United States last week.
Having lived in PNG for 23 years, Nancy Sullivan ran an anthropology consulting company in Madang and employed various students from the PNG Studies Department of Divine Word University.
Dr Sullivan forged a reputation as an ardent campaigner for protection of PNG culture and local citizens' rights.
The PNG journalist Scott Waide says Dr Sullivan provided a formidable voice against the exploitation of Papua New Guineans by large scale industries and foreign governments.
According to the editor of the PNG Attitude website, Keith Jackson, she showed great bravery and dignity in continuing to expose exploitation in the face of repeated threats and intimidation.
The 57-year old North American native, who wrote about her campaigns in her blog Nineteen years and counting in Papua New Guinea.
Anthropologist Nancy Sullivan made her home in Papua New Guinea where she had a great affinity for the people. Photo: Nancy Sullivan & Associates
Nancy Sullivan had became a popular community figure in Madang and was a mother figure to many, including homeless children.
Two of three PNG children accompanying Dr Sullivan were critically injured in the crash.