Ismael Ruiz

Holding a PhD in Theology and Ethics, Dr. Ish Ruiz's research interests explore the intersection between queer theology, Latinx theology, ecclesiology, sexual ethics, liberation, human rights, and Catholic education. He has published articles on the inclusion of LGBTQ+ persons in Catholic schools and has actively ministered to queer Catholic school educators and students for almost a decade.

Prior to his appointment at Emory University, Dr. Ruiz taught as an adjunct professor at the University of Dayton, worked at the secondary school level for 11 years, chaired the Marianist LGBTQ+ Initiative team, offered several workshops to Catholic schools on Catholic LGBTQ+ inclusion, served as a union activist to protect the rights of LGBTQ+ Church employees, and presented in several pastoral conferences throughout the nation on Catholic LGBTQ+ inclusion.

Through his teaching, research, and service, Dr. Ruiz hopes to see a world where Catholicism and LGBTQ+ people embrace each other with love and gratitude for the gifts everyone brings to society and the Church.