Our Community

We can multiply the power of positivity, kindness, and beneficial action in the world when we deepen our relationships with others.

Nalandabodhi New York offers many ways to connect with companions on the path to awakening. Together we work to support each other as we strive to embody the wisdom that will lead to a kinder world. Our community provides space for individual exploration while ensuring we aren’t alone on our journey. We work together to bring kindness and compassion into our daily lives. By supporting each other during the difficult times and celebrating the happy ones, our personal transformative process is enhanced by the richness of interconnection.

Nalandabodhi had its beginnings in 1996 in Boulder, Colorado under the guidance of Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche. Rinpoche moved to Seattle in 2001, and since then the community has continued to expand and flourish. There are now 25 centers in 10 countries.

Nalandabodhi’s international community includes people from different cultures who share a commitment to kindness and clarity. We’re united and inspired to lead a more meaningful life and bring more joy to the world.

Getting to Know Us

Whether you are new to Buddhism or have been a student for many years, we invite you to get to know our community. We offer many study and meditation classes on a regular basis, including our Daily Morning Meditation. We welcome you to join us! Please check our schedule of all current and upcoming classes and events.

To learn more about the Nalandabodhi Paths of Study, Meditation, and Mindful Activity, please click here. 

Open Meditation

For those seeking a quiet time to meditate, we offer an online Daily Morning Meditation, Monday through Saturday from 8:30 – 8:50 AM Eastern Time.  All are welcome to join, regardless of background or experience.  For more information please click here.

Study

Our study path curriculum covers the philosophical, meditative, and practical teachings presented in the Kagyu and Nyingma schools of Tibetan Buddhism. On the path of study, based on the teachings of Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche, students will develop insight as they progress through the following courses:  Introduction to Buddhism, Hinayana, and Mahayana. These classes are open to all.

Continuing studies of the Vajrayana course are also taught and available to Nalandabodhi members who are actively engaged in the Vajrayana practices of our Path of Meditation.

Please check our schedule of all current and upcoming classes.

Membership

Many of our Nalandabodhi offerings are open and available to all. For those who are interested in a stronger connection, membership provides access to a greater range of study and practice opportunities.
Learn More About Membership 

Nalandabodhi New York Leadership Team

Under the guidance of Acharya Lhakpa Tshering, the New York sangha is led by a 4-member Administrative Council, which serves to manage the operations and activities of its community. These members work in collaboration with their associated Leadership Team. This is an all-volunteer organization. If you would like to volunteer, offer any suggestions, or wish to contact any of these committee members, please click here.

NBNY Administrative Council

Mitchell Owen, Sasha Persits, Greg Potter, and Gail Monteforte

NBNY Leadership 
  • Path of Practice – Dan Nelson and Rob Prichard
  • Path of Study – Rob Prichard
  • Path of Mindful Activity – Rosemary Bakker
  • Website and IT Administration – Henrietta Stern (position available)
  • Events and Special Programs – Sasha Persits (position available)
  • Communications and Membership – Gail Monteforte
  • Finance, Fundraising, and Managerial Operations – Greg Potter
  • Sangha Care – Rosemary Bakker and Allan Novick
  • Mind Without Borders – Isabel Kirsch and Jonathan Swann

Nalandabodhi New York is a local community space that provides:

Teachings

Study Classes

Meditation Practices

Retreats

#GoKind projects

Social events