Then & Now Archive | Page 2 of 5 | Naropa University

About Naropa
About Naropa
Located in Boulder, Colorado, Naropa University is a Buddhist-inspired, nonsectarian liberal arts university that is recognized as the birthplace of the mindfulness movement. Naropa offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs that emphasize professional and personal growth, intellectual development, and cultivating compassion.
Academics
Academics
Contemplative education brings together the best of Western scholarship and Eastern world wisdom traditions. Therefore, your pursuit of wisdom at Naropa means learning both about academic subjects and about your own place in the world. This innovative approach places Naropa on the cutting edge of the newest and most effective methods of teaching and learning.
UNDERGRADUATE
GRADUATE
Admissions & Aid
Admissions & Aid
If you’re seeking an education that resonates with both personal fulfillment and global impact, Naropa could be your top choice. At Naropa, you will experience a comprehensive curriculum that integrates the best of Eastern and Western educational approaches. Explore how Naropa can fuel your journey of intellectual and spiritual development.
Life at Naropa
Life at Naropa
Through its incredibly vibrant and welcoming community, “Naropa offers a home for those who aren’t willing to conform to convention—the mystic, the healer, the prophet, the rebel, the artist, the revolutionary, the oddball—those who are incredible contributors to the evolution of society and of our planet.”—Core Associate Professor Zvi Ish-Shalom
Follow Us
The Naropa Difference
The Naropa Difference
How is Naropa different from other universities? At Naropa, a liberal arts education balances rigorous academics with powerful interpersonal skills and self-awareness to educate the whole person. Naropa’s contemplative approach is inspired by Buddhist philosophy and the conviction that we can build a diverse, contemplative, enlightened society when we have transformed education to affirm the basic goodness of every person.
Support Naropa
Support Naropa
At a time when the value of higher education is being questioned, Naropa University stands firmly rooted in its mission to create a more just and regenerative world by nurturing insight, awareness, courage, and compassion in its students. By making a gift to Naropa, you play a pivotal role in helping to create the authentic, effective & mindful leaders that the world desperately needs.
Give Now

Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi

Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi, a transformative figure in the world of spirituality and interreligious dialogue, left an indelible impact on Naropa University as the second World Wisdom Chair holder.

Jerry Granelli

Jerry Granelli, a revered jazz drummer and educator, made an indelible mark on Naropa University through his pioneering spirit and passion for improvisation.

Jeffrey Pethybridge

Jeffrey Pethybridge, PhD, is the interim Vice President for Academic Affairs and Chief Academic Officer at Naropa University.

Carla Burns

Carla Burns, MDiv, is a dedicated instructor at Naropa University’s Core College and the Graduate School of Counseling & Psychology, where she specializes in integrating contemplative practices with emotional and embodied wisdom.

Christine Caldwell

Christine Caldwell, PhD, is the esteemed founder and professor emeritus of the Somatic Counseling Program at Naropa University.

Richard Brown

Richard Brown is the founder of the Department of Contemplative Education at Naropa University, established in 1990. With a background in both public and Buddhist-inspired K-12 education, Brown has dedicated his career to exploring and expanding the field of contemplative education.

Judith Simmer-Brown

Judith Simmer-Brown, PhD, Distinguished Professor Emeritx of Religious Studies, is a founding faculty member of Naropa University, having joined at the end of 1977 on a one-year contract.

Christopher Hormel

Christopher Hormel is a dedicated philanthropist and environmental activist who has resided in Boulder, Colorado, since 2007.

Lorenzo Gonzales

Lorenzo González has been a theatre performer, director, and educator for thirty years

Dennis Kerr

Dennis Kerr (Traditional Eastern Arts ’16), is a distinguished Naropa alumnus with a background in yoga, taijiquan, and ballroom dance, and a veteran of Army Music.