A global voice on belonging, intercultural competency, and empathy.
From May 12–13, 2025, RIS Ruamrudee International School had the honor of welcoming Dr. Derrick Gay, a globally recognized Belonging and Intercultural Strategist, for a full day of learning and reflection centered on empathy, intercultural competency, and strategies to foster a culture of dignity and respect.
Dr. Gay is an adjunct professor at Columbia University and a former faculty member at the University of Pennsylvania and Parsons Paris, where he taught courses in intercultural competency and global citizenship. Earlier in his career, he also taught French, Spanish, and music in K–12 classrooms around the world before moving into school leadership. With over 27 years of experience across 50 countries, his work has helped schools, universities, and global companies build inclusive communities rooted in human dignity and belonging.
During his visit to RIS, Dr. Gay led tailored sessions for faculty, students, and parents, each crafted to help our community better understand what it means to succeed in a diverse and interconnected world.
In his student workshop, “Preparing for Success in the 21st Century,” Dr. Gay explored how emotional intelligence, empathy, and intercultural awareness are essential life skills—particularly for students preparing for university abroad or within Thailand. He guided students in thinking about how to navigate exclusion, unkindness, and online conflict while communicating with confidence and compassion. Students left the session with practical tools to connect across difference and thrive in multicultural environments.
He also met with parents in a session that addressed the real challenges young people face growing up in a world shaped by media, technology, and rapid social change. Drawing on his global experience and research, Dr. Gay emphasized how a strong sense of belonging directly supports academic performance and emotional well-being. Parents gained fresh insight into how to help their children grow into empathetic, open-minded, and resilient individuals—at school, at home, and beyond.
Throughout his visit, Dr. Gay connected meaningfully with our students, faculty, and families. His warmth, clarity, and humor made complex ideas feel relevant and actionable for every member of the community.
“Belonging and fostering cultures of dignity and respect are among the most impactful and transformative aspects of international education. Dr. Gay’s profound expertise and ability to connect with varied communities—including those here in Thailand—have provided invaluable, actionable strategies tailored to our context.”
At RIS, we see belonging not as a buzzword, but as a vital part of our mission to nurture globally minded students who lead with compassion and character. Dr. Gay’s visit was a powerful step forward in that journey.
To explore more about Dr. Gay’s work, visit linktr.ee/derrickgay.
