Ronald D. Gordon

Ronald D. Gordon is a Professor in the Communication Department at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo, part of the Humanities Division. He specializes in Interpersonal Communication, Intercultural Communication, and Leadership Communication, emphasizing experiential learning and fostering empathy, authenticity, and positive regard among students. His teaching philosophy prioritizes transforming students through meaningful classroom engagement, blending theory with practical, 'zing'-filled experiences.

Dr. Gordon has taught at institutions across 12 colleges in six U.S. states but highlights UH Hilo’s unparalleled cultural diversity as a key strength. He has served as Chair of the Communication Department for eight years and President of the Pacific and Asian Communication Association for three years. His scholarship spans Journal of Communication and Religion, Journal of Multicultural Discourses, and others, alongside books like The Way of Dialogue and Communicating with the West.

His research focuses on interpersonal-quality intercultural communication, advocating for dialogue that transcends stereotypes and values human interconnectedness. He emphasizes communication as an experience to be savored, not just analyzed, and integrates global perspectives through presentations in locations like Seoul, Tokyo, and Xiamen.