Ruth Gerson has been an unwavering and profoundly influential figure within the Textile Society of Thailand (TTS) since its early days, evolving from a specialized role to becoming a central pillar of the organization's operations, financial stability, program delivery, and institutional memory.

Initially, in 2004, Ruth Gerson was formally appointed as the Tour Director. In this capacity, she was responsible for planning tours for TTS members and coordinating with the Treasurer on financial aspects and the Publicity and PR Director on promotional aspects. Even at this early stage, her proactive nature was evident as she offered to assist with the Volunteer Director position, which was initially on hold. She quickly became involved in planning early excursions, such as a one-day trip to Uthaithani.

Her role rapidly expanded beyond just tours into various critical areas:

• Program Development and Execution: Ruth consistently remained a primary force behind the TTS's events and tours. She was repeatedly responsible for organizing numerous "Collector's Corner" events and excursions. These included diverse topics like Indonesian textiles, Indian saris, Sumba textiles, Chinese minority textiles, and specific destinations like Chiang Mai, Ubon Rachathani, and Hua Hin. She frequently proposed and coordinated future speakers and programs, demonstrating proactive leadership in shaping the society's agenda.

• Financial Oversight and Management: Ruth often managed the society's petty cash, regularly reporting balances and expenditures at committee meetings. She actively participated in financial discussions, pushing for clarity in reporting income and expenses, especially noting the difficulty of identifying direct bank depositors in Thailand. She also took responsibility for procuring gifts for speakers. Her financial efforts included working to secure funds from tours.

• Membership Management: She was consistently involved in discussions about membership numbers, paid vs. unpaid members, and renewal strategies. Ruth also held one of the two keys to the TTS's PO Box for mail collection, particularly when other key members were abroad. She contributed to policies regarding membership communications, suggesting more cost-effective methods for sending out notices. She was instrumental in discussions regarding international membership fees, advocating for a reduction to US$25 cash to prevent members from being "penalized" by bank transfer fees and suggesting a "revolving membership" to ensure a full year of benefits.

• Publicity and External Communications: Ruth contributed to the TTS's public image and outreach. She was actively involved in producing the TTS newsletter/e-magazine ("Pah Thai Magazine"), contributing articles and coordinating with editors. She sent program announcements to other organizations like the Museum Volunteers and Siam Society, noting a positive effect on attendance. She also emphasized direct communication with newspapers.

• Institutional Memory and Continuity: Ruth provided crucial continuity and institutional knowledge within the committee. She frequently reviewed meeting minutes, ensuring accuracy. Her suggestion to compile a history of the society, starting from its informal beginnings, further underscores her commitment to preserving its legacy.

• Adaptability and Problem-Solving: Ruth demonstrated great adaptability, particularly during changes in committee roles and external challenges. She stepped up to collect mail when others were away, helped navigate issues with the society's bank account signatories, and adapted program plans due to unforeseen circumstances like floods or political demonstrations. She was part of the group that made the pivotal decision to not dissolve the organization in 2012, choosing instead to carry on its activities.

• Charitable Initiatives: Ruth consistently supported initiatives to aid weavers and textile-related charities. This included suggesting donations for magnifying eyeglasses for elderly weavers, advocating for contributions to weaving schools, and personally purchasing items for donation.

In summary, Ruth Gerson's impact on the TTS has been transformative and sustaining. She began as a dedicated program and tour organizer and grew into a multi-faceted leader who not only initiated and executed numerous successful events but also diligently managed financial details, championed membership growth, ensured effective communication, and provided invaluable institutional continuity. Her efforts have been fundamental to the TTS's operational resilience and its enduring mission to promote textile appreciation.