In this episode of the Blue Skies Leadership Podcast, hosts Dan Kerr and Daniel Mendes engage in a profound conversation with Dr. Derek Gay, a global expert on diversity and inclusion. They explore the complexities of understanding diversity, the critical role of belonging in educational settings, and the importance of cultural context in implementing diversity initiatives. Dr. Gay emphasizes that creating a culture of belonging requires strategic change management and active engagement from all community members. The discussion also highlights the need for representation within international schools and the vision for a future where belonging is integral to the educational experience.

Dr. Derrick Gay is a globally recognized Belonging and Intercultural Strategist, dedicated to fostering cultures of dignity and respect. With multifaceted expertise as an international speaker, author, researcher, educator, and university lecturer, Dr. Gay empowers individuals and organizations to deepen belonging and empathy by cultivating shared language, raising awareness, and fostering inclusive personal behaviors and organizational practices and policies. Dr. Gay’s work spans numerous industries, including schools, businesses, non-profits, and arts organizations.

Drawing from his extensive international experience, Dr. Gay designs meaningful strategies that resonate across a broad range of industries and cultures. His approach, informed by research and practitioner experiences in over 50 countries, facilitates meaningful connections and promotes belonging on a global scale. A lifelong educator with over 28 years of experience, Dr. Gay taught in K-12 schools and served as a senior administrator in schools around the world. Most recently, he has served as a senior advisor to Sesame Street while also serving as adjunct faculty/lecturer at University of Pennsylvania, Columbia Business School, International Fashion Academy, Parsons Paris, and Teachers College at Columbia University. As such, Dr. Gay engages with the full range of education from early childhood to doctorate students, supporting students, staff, parents, administrators, and boards. During the 2023-24 academic year, he led Belonging and Intercultural Competency efforts in schools and organizations spanning 23 countries and 45 cities.

Takeaways

• Diversity means everyone's backgrounds, not just marginalized groups.
• Belonging is an emotional feeling of being valued and seen.
• Cultural context significantly impacts diversity work in schools.
• Strategic change management is essential for sustainable diversity efforts.
• Belonging must be integrated into the school's DNA.
• Representation of host country cultures is crucial in international schools.
• Community engagement is vital for fostering belonging.
• Feedback from students can enhance diversity initiatives.
• Diversity work is ongoing and should not be treated as an initiative.
• A shared vision for belonging can transform school culture.

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Diversity and Inclusion

02:49 The Role of Belonging in Education

06:10 Cultural Context and Diversity Work

08:53 Strategic Change Management in Schools

12:08 The Importance of Representation

14:59 Vision for Future Schools

17:46 Engaging the Community in Belonging

21:05 The Journey Ahead for Dr. Gay