Maitripa College

Stilling the Mind, Opening the Heart: A Weekend Teaching Retreat on Shiné (Calm-Abiding Meditation) with Venerable René Feusi
2025-10-03 18:00 - 2025-10-05 13:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Maitripa College, 1119 SE Market St., Portland, OR, 97214, United States
Join Venerable René Feusi for a transformative weekend immersion in the practice of shiné (calm-abiding meditation). Known for his clarity, warmth, and skill in guiding meditators of all levels, Venerable René will lead us in cultivating stability, presence, and openness of heart through progressive stages of concentration.
This retreat will combine teachings, guided meditation sessions, and time for reflection, offering participants practical tools for deepening mindfulness and stillness both on the cushion and in daily life. Whether you are new to meditation or seeking to strengthen your existing practice, this weekend offers a rare opportunity to receive direct guidance from a senior teacher in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition.
Registration is required for both in-person and online (Zoom) attendance; there are registrations options to attend the full retreat or the Friday introductory community talk only:
SCHEDULE
Friday, October 3
6pm-7:30pm (PT): Opening session and introduction to shiné
Saturday, October 4
9am-noon: Two sessions of teaching and guided meditation
1:30pm-4pm: Two sessions of teaching, meditation, and Q&A
Sunday, October 5
9am-1pm: Three sessions deepening the practice of calm abiding, concluding with closing reflections and dedication
Register below, selecting your donation level from the options. provided. NOTE: This event is offered on a suggested donation basis by Maitripa College; your contribution facilitates our being able to offer programming like this. If you are unable to contribute at the suggested levels, please email education@maitripa.org for accommodation. NO ONE WILL BE TURNED AWAY.
Friday Only: Register for In-person or online (Zoom) attendanceFull Retreat: Register for in-person or online (Zoom) attendanceAbout Venerable René Feusi
Venerable René Feusi is a highly respected meditation teacher in the Gelug tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. A long-time student of Lama Yeshe and Lama Zopa Rinpoche, he has dedicated his life to helping students cultivate calm, clarity, and compassion through meditation. With decades of experience teaching around the world, Venerable René is known for his accessible style, practical guidance, and genuine embodiment of the Dharma. Learn more about him at renefeusi.com.

Guru Puja (Lama Chöpa) with Tsog on the Tibetan 10th and 25th Day
2025-10-02 15:30 - 17:00, 2025-09-16 15:30 - 17:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Maitripa College, 1119 SE Market St., Portland, OR, 97214, United States
Please join us at Maitripa College as we bring the Tibetan Buddhist tradition of practicing Guru Puja (Lama Chöpa) into our modern world and experience with our community.

Traditionally, the Guru Puja is celebrated on the 10th and 25th days of the Tibetan calendar. This puja consists of the recitation of a sadhana, visualizations, and prayers, including taking refuge and generating bodhicitta. Mantras, praises and requests are also usually recited. You may participate at whatever level you feel comfortable.
In person and online: Zoom link below.

>Click here for resources, text, and information on Guru Puja instructions and retreats at Maitripa College

join by zoom here

Yamantaka Study Group led by Venerable Lozang Yönten
2025-09-30 18:00 - 19:30, 2025-09-23 18:00 - 19:30, 2025-09-16 18:00 - 19:30, 2025-09-02 18:00 - 19:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Maitripa College, 1119 SE Market St., Portland, OR, 97214, United States
Yamantaka Study Group, led by Venerable Lozang Yönten

The new, weekly Yamantaka Study group hosted by Maitripa College was encouraged by Yangsi Rinpoche as a method for deepening our practice of Yamantaka in general and specifically to create causes for the broader community to eventually do the full approximation retreat together.

We meet via Zoom on Tuesday evenings from 6-7:30pm PST. The sessions are facilitated by Venerable Yönten who studied the practice of Yamantaka Solitary Hero in depth at Chenrezig Institute, supported by her Abbot, Gyurme Khensur Rinpoche Geshe Tashi Tsering. She has been doing the practice for many years and has led the full approximation retreat several times.

Each session will go into a specific portion of the sadhana and clarify it using many traditional commentaries. Throughout are opportunities to add knowledge, ask questions and explore experiences. The last half hour will be group practice of the short sadhana with special emphasis on the section just studied.

These sessions are only for people with active respect for and faith in the Mahayana-Vajrayana tradition and a Yamantaka empowerment, preferably Solitary Hero as opposed to 13 Deity. We request your empowerment date, place and vajra master before inclusion to this group.

Email education@maitripa.org to find out more.

*for Yamantaka initiates only*

Email education@maitripa.org for details.

Voices of Meditation: A Community Teaching Series with Venerable Lozang Yönten
2025-09-28 11:00 - 12:30, 2025-09-21 11:00 - 12:30, 2025-09-14 11:00 - 12:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | OR
Sunday Mornings ~ Voices of Meditation: A Community Teaching Series with Venerable Lozang Yönten
Maitripa College warmly invites you to join our Sunday Community Teaching Series with Venerable Lozang Yönten, a weekly gathering dedicated to meditation, reflection, and community. From September through December, our series will focus on the theory and practice of meditation, offering space for teaching, meditation, conversation, and Q & A.
Whether you are new to meditation or seeking to deepen your experience, these sessions are designed to be welcoming, practical, and nourishing. Please join us and take your place in our growing community of study, meditation, and service.
In-person and online. Followed by tea and conversation. It is not necessary to register for in-person attendance; please join online using the link below.
join by zoom here

Tibet Day hosted by the Northwest Tibetan Cultural Center
2025-09-13 10:00 - 16:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Maitripa College, 1119 SE Market St., Portland, OR, 97214, United States
Please celebrate Tibet Day hosted by the Northwest Tibetan Cultural Center in downtown Portland on September 13. Bring friends and family and look for the Maitrpa College table!

Guru Puja (Lama Chöpa) with Tsog on the Tibetan 10th and 25th Day
2025-09-02 15:00 - 16:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Maitripa College, 1119 SE Market St., Portland, OR, 97214, United States
Please join us at Maitripa College as we bring the Tibetan Buddhist tradition of practicing Guru Puja (Lama Chöpa) into our modern world and experience with our community.

Traditionally, the Guru Puja is celebrated on the 10th and 25th days of the Tibetan calendar. This puja consists of the recitation of a sadhana, visualizations, and prayers, including taking refuge and generating bodhicitta. Mantras, praises and requests are also usually recited. You may participate at whatever level you feel comfortable.
In person and online: Zoom link here.

>Click here for resources, text, and information on Guru Puja instructions and retreats at Maitripa College

join by zoom

Happy Labor Day! (No public events and offices are closed August 30 - September 1)
2025-08-30 - 2025-09-01 | Maitripa College, 1119 SE Market St., Portland, OR, 97214, United States
The Maitripa offices are closed Monday, September 1 in honor of all who work so hard across the country. There are no public events on Saturday and Suday (August 30 and 31). See you next weekend!

Tara Retreat Day with Venerable Lozang Yönten
2025-08-24 10:00 - 16:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | OR
Tara Retreat Day with Venerable Lozang Yönten at Maitripa College
This one-day retreat will focus on connecting with and deepening our connection with Green Tara, Buddha of Enlightened Activity and Protection. We will mainly use the Four Mandala Offering Practice to Green Tara (text provided).
A simple vegetarian lunch will be provided for those joining in the Maitripa Jokhang.
All are welcome but registration is required. Please register below and choose your donation option (based on ability and intent) from the registration form. NOTE: Zoom links to join online will be emailed to participants the day before the Retreat.
Register to attend in person or online by Zoom

Discovering Buddhism: All About Karma with Venerable Tenzin Drolma
2025-08-10 11:00 - 12:30, 2025-08-03 11:00 - 12:30, 2025-07-27 11:00 - 12:30, 2025-07-20 11:00 - 12:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Maitripa College, 1119 SE Market St., Portland, OR, 97214, United States
Discovering Buddhism Module 6: All About Karma with Venerable Tenzin Drolma
This module offers an overview of the essential facts about the law of actions and their results. Explore ways to deal with life more effectively and take control of your future.
Meets July 20, 27, August 3, & 10
11-12:30p (PT)
Online & In Person.
Open to all; registration required:
Please register here for In-person or online Zoom attendance and select the donation level you can offer in support of our ongoing programs. Zoom registrants will receive the link via email by the day before the event.

Buddhist Mind Science Module 3: Getting to Know Your Mind
2025-07-28 18:30 - 2025-08-13 20:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Maitripa College, 1119 SE Market St., Portland, OR, 97214, United States
Getting to Know Your Mind offers a rare opportunity to explore the nature of your own mind with clarity and depth. Guided by Venerable Tenzin Drolma—a Maitripa College alumna, licensed therapist, and ordained Buddhist nun for over a decade—this course combines Buddhist philosophy and contemplative practice with modern psychological insight. Through focused inquiry and meditation, students will uncover habitual patterns of thought and emotion, and learn practical tools to transform their inner experience from the inside out.
Buddhist Mind Science Module 3: Getting to Know Your Mind
Mondays and Wednesdays, 6:30-8:00pm (PT)
July 28, 30, August 4, 6, 11, 13
In-person and online (Zoom) registration options: Register below for access to all classes and materials at the donation level of your choice.
Please register here for In-person or online Zoom attendance and select the donation level you can offer in support of our ongoing programs. Zoom registrants will receive the link via email by the day before the event.
Venerable Tenzin Drolma was born in Chicago, US, in 1961. She received her undergraduate degree in religious studies, philosophy and psychology. She has graduate degrees in Counseling Psychology from the University of Denver and in Buddhist Studies from Maitripa College. For 25 years she worked in the mental health field.
Ven. Drolma was ordained as a nun in the Tibetan tradition in 2009. She moved to Vajrapani Institute and was resident sangha and assistant SPC for four years. From 2015 until 2022, she taught Introduction to Buddhism at Tushita Meditation Centre in India.
Ven. Drolma’s teaching style includes the psychological aspects of Buddhism and she has been described as a very approachable teacher. While strongly based in the tradition of the Gelukpa school, her teaching emphasizes those aspects most helpful to modern students.

Chokhor Duchen
2025-07-28 17:00 - 18:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Maitripa College, 1119 SE Market St., Portland, OR, 97214, United States
Chokhor Duchen: Monday July 28 5pm
You are warmly invited to join us in celebration of Chokhor Duchen, one of the four great Buddhist festival days of the year. This sacred day commemorates the Buddha’s first turning of the Wheel of Dharma, when he began to share the profound teachings that continue to guide and inspire us today.
On this auspicious occasion, the merit of all spiritual activities is multiplied many times over. We will gather in practice, reflection, and community, honoring the Buddha’s teachings and their immeasurable benefit to all beings. All are welcome to attend.
It is not necessary to register to attend in person; follow the link below to attend online through Zoom.
Click here for Zoom link to attend online

FPMT Teacher Development Service Seminar: Contemplative Pedagogy for Dharma Teachers
2025-07-11 - 2025-07-13 | Maitripa College, 1119 SE Market St., Portland, OR, 97214, United States
PLEASE NOTE: REGISTRATION IS NOW CLOSED FOR THIS EVENT

Thanks to a grant from FPMT, this seminar is being offered to registered participants at NO COST live in Portland, Oregon and online. Please see registration for housing support options in Portland.

Contemplative Pedagogy for Dharma Teachers: FPMT Teacher Service Development Service (TSDS) Seminar
With Venerable Lozang Yönten and Namdrol Adams
Location: Maitripa College
Dates & Times: 7/11: 10-5 7/12: 10-5 7/13: 10-3 (all times PT)
Hybrid Model (In-person and Online)

Please review the information on this page and follow the link to register:
register hereIntroduction
The July 2025 FPMT Teacher Development Service Seminar (TDSS) at Maitripa College marks the next step in the evolution of training and support for Dharma teachers in the FPMT. Building on nearly a decade of collaborative effort within our community, this seminar embodies the insights, aspirations, and lived experiences of senior teachers, students, and the wider FPMT community around the world.
The foundations of this seminar were established in 2017, when experienced Dharma teachers and senior students came together to shape a shared vision for teacher development. Their work culminated in the first TDSS, piloted in various regions and contexts. It laid the groundwork for this iteration, now informed by refined pedagogy, flexible formats, and emerging best practices.
The 2025 TDSS has been shaped by fresh feedback and evolving priorities identified at the April 2025 CPMT meeting, where FPMT teachers emphasized the need to better support emerging teachers, integrate contemporary pedagogy, and balance lineage fidelity with accessibility. This TDSS draws on the expertise and best practices developed across the international FPMT community.
In response to evolving needs, this TDSS has been designed as a hybrid-learning program combining online and in-person participation, to increase flexibility and accessibility. With a mix of asynchronous and hybrid modules, it aims to support diverse learners, reduce travel demands, and pilot new pedagogical approaches. This shift reflects a broader commitment to offering high-quality Dharma education beyond traditional formats, while preserving the integrity of the teachings and the value of in-person experience.
This training is grounded in the heart advice of Khen Rinpoche Geshe Chonyi, Abbot of Kopan Monastery and member of the FPMT International Board, and Yangsi Rinpoche, President of Maitripa College. Their shared vision guides the development of compassionate, ethical, and skillful Dharma teachers prepared to meet the world with wisdom.
We welcome you and deeply appreciate your aspiration to teach and serve. May this seminar support your personal growth, confidence, and joyful commitment to the Dharma.
Overview of the 2025 TDSS
The 2025 FPMT Teacher Development Service Seminar will contain:

Asynchronous Pre-Seminar Modules – To be completed by July 1, 2025

Foundational teachings, reflections, and preparatory content to complete at your own pace before the live sessions, helping ground and enrich your experience.

Live Hybrid Seminar – Zoom & in-person at Maitripa College, July 11-13, 2025

An interactive, community-based environment with real-time teachings, group discussions, practicum sessions, and shared reflection—accessible both in person and online.

Asynchronous Post-Seminar Modules – To be completed by July 31, 2025

Follow-up content for integration and continued reflection, supporting the deepening of understanding, the application of insights to teaching practice, and connection to ongoing mentorship within the FPMT.
The Schedule

Asynchronous Pre-Seminar Online Modules Available Online by July 1, 2025

Module
Title
Topics
Format

Module 1
Introduction to the Teacher Development Seminar
Orientation.
Lineage grounding. Schedule overview.
Video + reading PDF.

Module 2
Introduction to the Qualities of a Dharma Teacher
Study, ethics, discipline. Heart advice from Lama Zopa Rinpoche, Khen Rinpoche, & Yangsi Rinpoche
Recorded talks + reflection prompts.

Module 3
Understanding Learners
Learning styles. Sequencing Dharma for beginners. Trauma-informed pedagogy.
Slides + short quizzes + forum.

Module 4
Facilitation Foundations
Safe spaces. Inclusive learning. Power dynamics.
Guided reflection + peer sharing forum.

Live Hybrid Seminar – Zoom & in-person at Maitripa College, July 11-13, 2025

Module 5
Day 1: Foundations of the Teacher

Time
Session
Format

10:00am–12:00pm PDT
Session 1: The Qualities of a Teacher
Live hybrid

1:00pm–3:00pm PDT
Session 2: Understanding Learners
Live hybrid

3:30pm–5:00pm PDT
Session 3: Group Dynamics & Leadership
Live hybrid

Module 6
Day 2: Pedagogy in Practice

Time
Session
Format

10:00am–12:00pm PDT
Session 4: Course Planning I: Teaching in Gompa & Classroom Settings
Live hybrid

1:00pm–3:00pm PDT
Session 5: Course Planning II: Teaching Online & Hybrid
Live hybrid

3:30pm–5:00pm PDT
Session 6: Practicum – Presenting a Simple Teaching
Live hybrid (recorded for feedback)

Module 7
Day 3: Integration, Ethics, and Community

Time
Session
Format

10:00am–12:00pm PDT
Session 7: Ethics, Authority, and Cultural Relevance
Live hybrid

1:00pm–3:00pm PDT
Session 8: Mentorship and Lifelong Development + Closing Circle
Live hybrid

Asynchronous Post-Seminar Modules – To be completed by July 31, 2025

Module
Title
Topics
Format

Module 8
Reflective Teaching Practice
Integration journaling. Personal teaching goals.
Journal upload + forum

Module 9
Mentorship Paths in FPMT
TDSS Review.
Choosing a mentor.
Video + mentor request form

Supporting Tools & Features to enhance your learning experience:

Access to all materials via Maitripa Mandala Online (launches Summer 2025)
Ongoing active discussion forums to connect, reflect and learn with peers
Live sessions recorded for flexible access across time zones
Personalized feedback through private practicum review channels
Certificate of Completion issued to recognize your full participation

Important Information About the New TDSS Format
We are happy to share that the updated Teacher Development Service Seminar (TDSS) is now being offered in a hybrid format, with options for both in-person and online participation. At this time, the course is available only in English.
Please note the following important details about access and participation:

The online course content will be made available only to individuals who are enrolled in the full course—whether attending in person or online
Once enrolled, participants will have ongoing access to these materials for personal study and review.
Live sessions and breakout group work will not be recorded or made available after the course.
Certificates of Completion: Participants will receive a certificate of completion for either online or in-person attendance. The certificate will note your mode of participation and confirm that you’ve met the course requirements.
Pre-Seminar Modules: These will now be available starting July 1. You can complete them on your own time before the live seminar weekend. Links to access those coming this week.

We understand that time zones and schedules vary. If you are interested in doing the full course online but are unable to attend the synchronous sessions at all, please email us directly at education@maitripa.org, and we do our best to support your participation.
We are currently experimenting with various modes of delivery for the TDSS to be made available in the future. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility as we offer the most comprehensive experience currently possible.

FAQ: How long will the asynchronous parts of the TDSS take me to complete?
ANSWER:
Looking at Modules 1–9 of the Teacher Development Service Seminar, an average student working asynchronously and independently—without group engagement or live sessions—can expect to spend approximately 10 to 15 hours total to complete the asynchronous coursework.

Buddhist Mind Science Module 2: Transforming the Mind to Cultivate Lasting Happiness
2025-07-07 18:30 - 2025-07-23 20:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Maitripa College, 1119 SE Market St., Portland, OR, 97214, United States
Transforming the Mind to Cultivate Lasting Happiness is an in-depth exploration of meditation, emotional awareness, and mental balance as pathways to inner transformation. Taught by Venerable Tenzin Drolma—a Maitripa College alumna, professional therapist, and ordained Buddhist nun for over a decade—this course offers a rare and compelling integration of Buddhist insight and therapeutic practice. Through guided practice and critical reflection, students will engage the profound potential to understand and reshape their own minds.
Buddhist Mind Science Module: Transforming the Mind to Cultivate Lasting Happiness
Mondays and Wednesdays, 6:30-8:00pm (PT)
July 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23
In-person and online (Zoom) registration options: Register below for access to all classes and materials at the donation level of your choice.
Please register here for In-person or online Zoom attendance and select the donation level you can offer in support of our ongoing programs. Zoom registrants will receive the link via email by the day before the event.
Venerable Tenzin Drolma was born in Chicago, US, in 1961. She received her undergraduate degree in religious studies, philosophy and psychology. She has graduate degrees in Counseling Psychology from the University of Denver and in Buddhist Studies from Maitripa College. For 25 years she worked in the mental health field.
Ven. Drolma was ordained as a nun in the Tibetan tradition in 2009. She moved to Vajrapani Institute and was resident sangha and assistant SPC for four years. From 2015 until 2022, she taught Introduction to Buddhism at Tushita Meditation Centre in India.
Ven. Drolma’s teaching style includes the psychological aspects of Buddhism and she has been described as a very approachable teacher. While strongly based in the tradition of the Gelukpa school, her teaching emphasizes those aspects most helpful to modern students.

Discovering Buddhism: Presenting the Path with Venerable Tenzin Drolma
2025-07-06 11:00 - 12:30, 2025-06-29 11:00 - 12:30, 2025-06-22 11:00 - 12:30, 2025-06-15 11:00 - 12:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Maitripa College, 1119 SE Market St., Portland, OR, 97214, United States
Discovering Buddhism Module 3: Presenting the Path with Venerable Tenzin Drolma
This module offers an overview of the entire Tibetan Buddhist path to awakening. Study the life story of the Buddha and discover a unique system for putting Buddhist philosophy into practice – the lamrim, or graduated path to enlightenment.
Meets June 15, 22, 29, & July 6
11am-12:30pm (PT)
Online & In Person.
Open to all; registration required:
Please register here for In-person or online Zoom attendance and select the donation level you can offer in support of our ongoing programs. Zoom registrants will receive the link via email by the day before the event.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 90th Birthday Celebration
2025-07-06 10:00 - 11:00 UTC | Maitripa College, 1119 SE Market St., Portland, OR, 97214, United States
Celebration of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 90th Birthday
Sunday, July 6th, 10am
You are invited to celebrate His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday with us on Sunday! Join us to practice ‘The Inseparability of the Spiritual Master and Avalokiteshvara: A Source of All Powerful Attainments’ with Venerable Tenzin Drolma and the Maitripa College community.
Discovering Buddhism: Presenting the Path will continue after puja. Snacks & birthday cake available for all following the teachings!
No registration necessary for in-person attendance; click below to join online by Zoom.

Join the celebration online!

Introduction to Buddhist Chaplaincy & Spiritual Care
2025-06-28 10:00 - 16:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Maitripa College, 1119 SE Market St., Portland, OR, 97214, United States
Introduction to Buddhist Chaplaincy & Spiritual Care: An Interactive Workshop Exploring Skills, Vocation, and Contemplative Foundations
IN-PERSON OR ONLINE
This one-day workshop will combine lectures, small group exercises, meditation, and practice of some practical skills for serving others in spiritual care or chaplaincy roles, or to bring a spiritual dimension into the work of those in the therapeutic and caregiving relationships at home, in communities, and at their workplaces.
Foundational worldviews, or orienting systems, unique to Buddhism that inform spiritual care:

Practicing the Chaplain’s Path with empathy and equanimity
The Buddha as a Model Spiritual Caregiver
Buddhist Contributions to Spiritual Health

Participants will experience both receiving and giving care, sharing stories, and clarifying their present or future opportunities to enhance their own spiritual formation and care of others. Participants will learn about current research in the fields of compassion and chaplaincy, resources to develop their practice, and handouts for exercises practiced to enhance communication, connection and rapport in their relationships.
Please register here for In-person or online Zoom attendance and select the donation level you can offer in support of our ongoing programs. Zoom registrants will receive the link via email by the day before the event.

Buddhist Mind Science Module 1: Cultivating Lasting Happiness - What Buddhism & Science Say
2025-06-16 18:30 - 2025-07-02 20:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Maitripa College, 1119 SE Market St., Portland, OR, 97214, United States
Cultivating Lasting Happiness: What Buddhism and Science Have to Say About It is the first in a new series at Maitripa College exploring the inner workings of the mind. Taught by Venerable Tenzin Drolma—a Maitripa alumna, licensed therapist, and ordained Buddhist nun—this course offers a unique perspective on the causes of suffering and the conditions for true well-being, drawing from both Buddhist wisdom and modern psychology.
Buddhist Mind Science Module 1: Cultivating Lasting Happiness – What Buddhism & Science Say
Mondays and Wednesdays, 6:30-8pm (PT)
June 16, 18, 23, 25, 30, July 2
In-person and online (Zoom) registration options: Register below for access to all classes and materials at the donation level of your choice.
Please register here for In-person or online Zoom attendance and select the donation level you can offer in support of our ongoing programs. Zoom registrants will receive the link via email by the day before the event.

About This Series: Explore the Mind: Buddhist Mind Science—Activating Your Potential: Offered online and in person, this three-module course bridges Buddhist contemplative tradition and modern science to illuminate how we can transform our lives from the inside out. Modules include:

Module 1: Cultivating Lasting Happiness – What Buddhism and science teach us about genuine well-being
Module 2: Transforming the Mind – Training in emotional resilience and inner peace
Module 3: Getting to Know Your Mind – Guided inquiry into the functions and nature of mind

Venerable Tenzin Drolma was born in Chicago, US, in 1961. She received her undergraduate degree in religious studies, philosophy and psychology. She has graduate degrees in Counseling Psychology from the University of Denver and in Buddhist Studies from Maitripa College. For 25 years she worked in the mental health field.
Ven. Drolma was ordained as a nun in the Tibetan tradition in 2009. She moved to Vajrapani Institute and was resident sangha and assistant SPC for four years. From 2015 until 2022, she taught Introduction to Buddhism at Tushita Meditation Centre in India.
Ven. Drolma’s teaching style includes the psychological aspects of Buddhism and she has been described as a very approachable teacher. While strongly based in the tradition of the Gelukpa school, her teaching emphasizes those aspects most helpful to modern students.

Saka Dawa
2025-06-11 | Maitripa College, 1119 SE Market St., Portland, OR, 97214, United States
Celebrate Saka Dawa!
You’re warmly invited to join us in spirit by celebrating Saka Dawa, one of the most sacred and powerful days in the Buddhist calendar. This auspicious occasion commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and parinirvana of Shakyamuni Buddha—a day when the merit of our prayers and positive actions is said to be multiplied many millions of times.
Although there will be no formal community practice at Maitripa College on this day, due to the completion of our Mahamudra retreat, we encourage you to mark this special day with your own personal practice. You might:

Engage in meditation or recite prayers
Dedicate your practice for the enlightenment of all beings
Make offerings on your altar or to others
Perform acts of generosity or kindness
Take and keep vows for the day
