Branch Teachers
Teachers of Buddhism and Meditation Classes
In addition to our Resident Teacher, Gen Kelsang Mondrub, Kadampa Meditation Center Georgia has several other qualified Kadampa Teachers, both lay and ordained. These Teachers are all senior students of Gen Mondrub and study in either the Foundation Program or Teacher Training Program. Each of them offers a unique perspective on the Kadampa Teachings, and they explain clearly how to practice in daily life from their own personal experience.
Branch Teachers
Kerry Abbott has been studying and practicing Kadam Dharma since 2003 when by chance she dropped in to hear Gen Kelsang Mondrub give a talk in Pensacola, Florida. She has a very sincere wish to bring Kadampa Buddhism to the Gulf Coast and surrounding areas. She facilitates a bi-weekly Kadampa book study group and twice monthly meditation classes in Pensacola and Pace, Florida. She coordinates her teaching efforts with the Kadampa Meditation Center Georgia and organizes special visits with Gen Kelsang Mondrub. Kerry is a full-time nursing student and mother.
Elin Begley, originally from Minnesota, lives and works in Atlanta. She has been part of Kadampa Meditation Center Georgia for several years and joined the Foundation Program in 2006. Professionally, Elin works in HIV Prevention as a Behavioral Scientist. Elin has a calming presence as a teacher and uses her real life experiences to help her students integrate Dharma teachings into their life.
Bob Buchman is one of the many people who have helped to build the Center as you see it today. As one of Kadampa Meditation Center Georgia's "veterans," he has been a key part of the Rameshori community since its early days in the late '90s. He is a long-time student of the Foundation Program and its Teacher Training Program. Professionally, Bob is a self-employed computer consultant.
Chris Byrne has been studying and practicing Kadam Dharma for several years and is a member of the Teacher Training Program. He has taught throughout Georgia and the Metro Atlanta area in a variety of settings, including churches, universities, and community centers. Chris is a warm and compassionate teacher who brings a joyful perspective to his classes. Professionally, Chris is the General Manager of the World Peace Café Atlanta.
Terri Cooke has been studying and practicing Buddhism for several years and is a member of the Teacher Training Program. Her welcoming smile is an indication of the openness and love she has for everyone she meets. Terri relates her experiences using the wisdom and compassion of dharma in raising two teenage children. She also works at a local high school.
Trish Gurney originally from New York, lives and works in Peachtree City. She has been part of the Kadampa Meditation Center Georgia for several years and joined the Foundation Program in 2006. Professionally, Trish is a qi gong master.
Caroline Lopez has been a student of Kadam Dharma since early 2003 and is currently studying in the FP Correspondence Program. After moving to Alabama, in late 2003, Caroline helped found and continues to mentor Kadampa Meditation Center Georgia branch classes in both The Shoals and Huntsville. She organizes book talks, teachings, and retreats by Gen Mondrub throughout Alabama. Caroline is known for her warmth and encouragement, as well as her enjoyment of learning and sharing Buddha's practical and profound teachings. Professionally, Caroline is a Victim's Advocate for the Shoals Crisis Center in Florence, AL.
Cindy Parker became interested in Kadam Dharma after volunteering her time at the World Peace Cafe Atlanta. She is a student in the Foundation Program at Kadampa Meditation Center Georgia. As a Life Coach, every aspect of her daily life is devoted to helping others find happiness.
Angie Terrell has been studying in Kadampa Meditation Center Georgia's structured study programs for approximately eight years. A sincere practitioner with a keen understanding of the Dharma, Angie is well-known for her insightful, quick wisdom. Her teachings are clear and concise, and she explains the concepts in a way that everyone can relate to. Professionally, Angie works as a business analyst for Engauge Digital.
Yingji Wang (Helena) was born and raised in Beijing, China, and has lived in the U.S. for ten years. She moved to Huntsville, Alabama with her husband and met Kadampa Buddhism in early 2008. Since then, she has been a Correspondence student of the Foundation Program. She enjoys walking the spiritual path and sharing this wonderful experience with others.