Ruth Manion brings over twenty years of dynamic leadership and a deep commitment to interfaith relations to her role as President of BIIS. Her academic path, marked by an honors graduation from Brookline High School in Massachusetts and further enriched with a major in East Asian Studies and a minor in Education from Colby College in Maine, has been instrumental in shaping her career.

This rich educational background set the foundation for her diverse and impactful career. Ruth’s professional journey in education began with teaching TESOL in Boston’s Chinatown. This role not only sharpened her skills in cross-cultural communication but also deepened her appreciation for diverse cultural narratives. Over a decade, she extended her expertise to serve as a youth counselor and lead educational programs, spanning from physical education and character development to comprehensive studies in monotheistic religions, demonstrating her versatility as an educator.

Ruth’s dedication to aiding individuals is evident in her work with the Randolph Community Partnership, where she teaches ESOL to adults, demonstrating her belief in the power of education at all stages of life. Her role as the chairperson of the Education Committee at Greater Youth Resource Services, Inc., along with her certification in Youth Mental First Aid, showcases her holistic approach to nurturing the growth and well-being of young individuals.

Ruth’s unique perspective on interfaith dialogues is shaped by her experience attending a Christian school during her upbringing. This personal journey has given her a deep understanding of religious dynamics, allowing her to effectively bridge gaps between faiths with empathy. Ruth utilizes her knowledge of both Christianity and Islam to facilitate meaningful discussions, foster mutual respect, and promote an appreciation for diverse religious traditions. Her background in Christian education provides valuable insights into the Christian faith, enabling her to connect with individuals from various religious backgrounds and facilitate inclusive interfaith dialogues.

At BIIS, Ruth is set to leverage her rich educational background, personal faith journey, and extensive community service experience to further the organization’s mission. She aims to utilize her expertise to enhance youth programs, foster interfaith relations, and ensure continued success for BIIS. Her leadership is crucial in guiding the community toward a future where interfaith harmony is a tangible reality, and the youth are empowered to be the proponents of this inclusive and respectful environment.