Personal Development Leave

Contemplative practice is the ground upon which Naropa University’s educational philosophy and approach are based. As such, employees of the university are encouraged to learn, develop and maintain the practice of a contemplative discipline. This practice serves as a basis for personal and professional development as well as providing a model for our students.

In order to support employees in personal or professional development, practice, study or training, the university provides a unique benefit: personal development leave (PDL).

Employees who request PDL receive a grant of paid time off from the university to engage in personal practice. For example, our employees have used this benefit to participate in such diverse practices as American Indian rain dance ceremonies, African mountain-climbing retreats, meditation intensives, yoga intensives, massage certification programs, Pagan festivals, leadership training, herbalism courses, shamanism and treks across the Himalayas.

Employees who utilize the PDL benefit return to the workplace reinvigorated and reengaged, often with new skills or experiences that are ultimately reflected in their ability to engage with students, develop workplace relationships and maintain their own personal practice outside of a sacred or retreat space.