Lessons in Compassion, Community, and Multiple Intelligences

Photographed above: Aria, the fifth-grade student who chose me, Grace-Anne Alfiero, for her project focus. She is standing in front of her changemaker presentation in Tampa, Florida

A few weeks ago, I had the unexpected privilege of being interviewed by a fifth-grade student from Carrollwood Day School in Tampa, Florida. While the plan was to meet in person, Winter Storm Fern had other ideas. Even so, the virtual format did nothing to diminish what became a remarkably thoughtful and deeply philosophical conversation—one that reaffirmed why caring for others, especially the most vulnerable among us, is essential to the health of society as a whole.

At the heart of our discussion was a simple but powerful idea: protecting vulnerable populations strengthens the social fabric. Research consistently supports this view. Studies in social capital and public policy show that communities with strong safety nets experience higher levels of trust, civic participation, and economic resilience. When people feel secure—knowing they will not be abandoned during periods of illness, disability, or hardship—they are more likely to contribute productively, take responsible risks, and invest in their communities. In this way, compassion is not merely altruistic; it is foundational to collective prosperity.

We spoke at length about inclusion, particularly the importance of supporting individuals with disabilities and ensuring they are fully integrated into everyday community life. This aligns closely with the work of Dr. Howard Gardner and his Theory of Multiple Intelligences. Gardner’s research challenges the narrow definition of intelligence as purely linguistic or mathematical. Instead, it recognizes a broad spectrum of intelligences—interpersonal, intrapersonal, spatial, kinesthetic, musical, and more. When society embraces this framework, it becomes clear that people of all abilities bring meaningful strengths and perspectives. Inclusive communities are therefore not only more just; they are more innovative, creative, and adaptable.

Our conversation also explored the ethical dimension of social responsibility. A society is ultimately judged by how it treats those with the least power. Ensuring access to basic needs, dignity, and opportunity—especially equitable access to employment—affirms our shared humanity. Research in workforce development and disability inclusion demonstrates that inclusive employment practices reduce long-term public costs, improve organizational performance, and foster stronger local economies. Values such as fairness and justice, once embedded, guide better decision-making across institutions and generations.

Photographed above: Aria interviewing me, Grace-Anne Alfiero, for her changemaker project.

We also discussed how meaningful change does not always come from grand gestures. Often, it is built through small, consistent acts of care—creating positive change in daily life and paying it forward whenever possible. I shared reflections from my time as Executive Director of Creative Clay, and the story of how Danielle Sangita Rottenberg and I worked together to shape an organization rooted in inclusion. Our goal was simple but intentional: to provide a safe, welcoming place where people with disabilities could learn about the arts alongside talented artists from their community. The impact of that work continues to reinforce my belief that inclusive spaces benefit everyone involved.

Spending an hour with this extraordinary class was a genuine joy. On February 12th, they brought their ideas to life through a “Changemaker Museum,” featuring exhibits on individuals they have chosen as agents of positive change. I was deeply honored to be included and loved how Aria’s ideas took shape!

I asked Aria how she felt about the entire project: developing the concept for her focus, conducting the research, the interview and finally, her full-circle moment visiting the Creative Clay Cultural Arts Center with her mom to see the organization in person. Aria stated, "The entire process was a great learning experience, from researching, to interviewing Ms. Grace-Anne, to visiting Creative Clay, and finally presenting my work. I had so much fun studying such an amazing activist. All of the minutes, hours, and days I took researching, writing, and creating was all worth it for the final result. To some, it may not seem like an important project, but I hope that my passion for the equality of all people gets out into the world and my voice is heard. I also hope that people can finally realize that even if someone has a neurological, physical, or learning disability, they are no different from anyone else."

In the meantime, I am moving forward with a little more optimism and energy, knowing there is a thoughtful, compassionate generation coming up behind us—one that understands empathy, inclusion, and shared responsibility. Hope truly lives in this fifth-grade classroom, and it is a powerful reminder that when we care for one another, we all move forward together.