Global Respectful Disruption Initiative (GRDI)
Powered by COMPEAR Global Education Network, GoAbroad.com, Kultural Kurators, and The Fund for Education Abroad
About GRDI
The Global Respectful Disruption Initiative (GRDI) is a pioneering program that recognizes the critical role of diverse thoughts and ideas in driving transformative change. By amplifying innovative voices in global education and community development, GRDI empowers participants to contribute their unique perspectives, resources, and insights.
Through mentorship, community engagement, and financial support, GRDI fosters a dynamic and inclusive environment that cultivates innovative solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges. Our ultimate goal is to inspire a new generation of global leaders committed to disrupting the status quo and building a more just and equitable future for all.
GRDI Scholarship Application
The GRDI Scholarship empowers individuals passionate about global education and community development. We believe that diverse perspectives are essential for fostering transformative change. Scholarship recipients receive:
- Mentorship from experienced professionals.
- Community engagement opportunities.
- Financial support for international travel or domestic intercultural programs.
Learn more about current and past GRDI Scholars here.
The next application cycle for Summer 2026 opens on January 20, 2026 and closes March 31, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST.
Get Involved
VOLUNTEER
Sign up to be a Volunteer Co-Constructor:
Join our mission by reviewing GRDI scholarship applications and mentoring passionate students committed to making meaningful change in their communities.
As a Volunteer Co-Constructor, you’ll:
- Review scholarship applications—helping select impactful students for global learning scholarships.
- Support and mentor GRDI Scholars, empowering their respectful disruption journeys from September to December.
- Earn a digital GRDI Co-Constructor Badge to recognize your contribution (awarded in December).
Time Commitment:
- Scholarship Review: Only 4–5 hours total in October and April.
- Co-Construction Mentoring: Approximately 30–60 minutes weekly from September to December.
- All Co-Constructors are required to complete a one-hour training on our scholarship review process and practice.
DONATE
Donate to the GRDI Scholarship Fund
Your donation directly supports global education scholarships, empowering students and removing financial barriers through intentional, impactful giving.
Choose your commitment level below:
- GRDI Catalyst – $41+ Supports expanding our scholarship and impact, amplifying our capacity to sustain scholarships and expand program reach.
- GRDI Activator – $40.50 Fully supports the GRDI scholarships and initiatives for an entire year, ensuring continuous student engagement and impactful programming.
- GRDI Affirmist – $20.25 Supports our spring campaign, laying a strong foundation for immediate impact and action.
As a thank you, all donors receive:
- Official GRDI Virtual Badge (for your email signature)
- Custom Virtual Background (highlighting your support)
- Exclusive Printed Stickers (available at conferences)
Donations are collected by the GoAbroad Foundation, a 501(c)(3), and are tax-deductible.
Every dollar raised is matched by one of our GRDI founding partners
GRDI Steering Committee
The GRDI Steering Committee plays a pivotal role in leading the initiative, managing operations, and ensuring the success of its programs.
Community Engagement Liaison – Open
Manages volunteer recruitment and onboarding, facilitates communication, and develops strategies to strengthen the GRDI community. Ensures effective engagement throughout the Leadership Program cycle.
Alumni Liaison – Open
A past GRDI Scholar who fosters alumni engagement, supports mentorship opportunities, and amplifies the impact of former scholarship recipients. Encourages alumni involvement in events, fundraising, and program development.
Interested in joining the steering committee? Express your interest to our steering committee chair or co-chair at: GRDI@compear.org
Hannah Benson
STEERING COMMITTEE CHAIR
(SHE/HER/HERS)
Georgetown University
Leads the board and initiative, oversees meetings, appointments, and budget management, and represents the organization at public events and fundraising efforts.
Dr. Chris Thompson
OPERATIONS LEAD & STEERING COMMITTEE CO-CHAIR
(SHE/HER/HERS)
COMPEAR Global Education Network
Manages day-to-day operations, ensuring activities align with strategic goals. Oversees logistics, optimizes processes, and enhances initiative efficiency.
Faye Steele
SCHOLARSHIP ADMINISTRATION LIAISON
(SHE/HER/HERS)
Manages the scholarship application process, including review cycles, reviewer training, and ongoing communication. Ensures equitable review practices and timely fund distribution.
CJ Tremblay
FUNDRAISING & COMMUNICATION LIAISON
(SHE/HER/HERS)
Alethea Global Cooperative
Develops fundraising strategies, secures sponsorships, and oversees scholarship fund management. Leads new partnership initiatives and donor engagement efforts.
GRDI Advisory Council
The GRDI Advisory Council provides strategic guidance and expertise to support the initiative’s long-term vision, sustainability, and impact.
Dr. Chris Thompson
CHAIR OF THE ADVISORY COUNCIL & GRDI OPERATIONS LEAD
(SHE/HER/HERS)
COMPEAR Global Education Network
Coordinates and oversees the execution of project tasks, optimizing processes for efficiency and impact.
Angela Schaffer
SCHOLARSHIP GUIDANCE & ADVISOR
(SHE/HER/HERS)
Fund for Education Abroad
Provides expert advice on scholarship processes, application preparation, and mentorship to enhance applicant success.
Kory M. Saunders
SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION & MENTOR MANAGEMENT
(SHE/HER/HERS)
Kultural Kurators / AIFS Abroad
Manages scholarship application processes, including candidate evaluation and selection, and coordinates mentorship for recipients.
Carla
Cinco
SCHOLARSHIP FUND & DIGITAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT
(SHE/HER/HERS)
GoAbroad.com
Oversees scholarship fund allocation in partnership with the GoAbroad Foundation. Manages digital resources to support the initiative.
Hannah Benson
STEERING COMMITTEE CHAIR
(SHE/HER/HERS)
Georgetown University
Oversees operations for the Steering Committee and serves as the liaison to the Advisory Council, ensuring strategic alignment, financial management, and public representation.
Our GRDI Partners
We are proud to collaborate with COMPEAR Global Education Network, GoAbroad.com, Kultural Kurators, and The Fund for Education Abroad to drive equity and inclusion in global education.
For inquiries or to get involved, contact us at GRDI@compear.org