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Exciting Update: Formerly Koru Mindfulness, We’re Now the Mindfulness Institute for Emerging Adults (MIEA).

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Mindfulness Institute for Emerging Adults

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Introducing Our New Trainees for MIEA’s Train-the-Trainer Program

The Mindfulness Institute for Emerging Adults (MIEA) is excited to welcome the latest participants selected for our prestigious Train-the-Trainer program. This diverse group of educators is embarking on a comprehensive journey to become certified trainers, ready to lead our Teacher Certification Workshops and mentor new instructors.

Meet the promising new trainees set to broaden the horizons of mindfulness education:

Siddhant Babla

Dartmouth College

A Wellbeing Program Coordinator at Dartmouth, Sid’s educational background in mindfulness and mind-body practices equips him with the tools to create inclusive and transformative experiences for students of various backgrounds.

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    Tiffany Bridgewater

    Louisville Collegiate School

    Tiffany’s roles as the Head of Lower School and Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Louisville Collegiate School allow her to seamlessly integrate mindfulness into educational settings, fostering emotional growth among students and adults alike.

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      Paula Fitzpatrick

      Worcester Polytechnic Institute

      As the Director of the Center for Well-Being at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Paula combines her psychological expertise with a strong foundation in mindfulness to develop tailored meditation practices for college students.

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        Danielle Nicholas

        Montana State University

        Based in Bozeman, Montana, Danielle is deeply involved in her community through the Montana Mindfulness Project and teaches at Montana State University. Her diverse roles will enrich her journey as she trains to guide others in mindfulness.

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          Marcia Roman

          Valencia College

          Marcia has been imparting mindfulness in the collegiate setting at Valencia College in Florida, leveraging her counseling background and mindfulness expertise to make a significant impact on her students.

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            Buddhini Tan

            Education Group Malaysia

            From Kuala Lumpur, Buddhini brings her skills as a Chartered Accountant and a Search Inside Yourself Mindfulness Teacher to the program, enhancing her ability to integrate mindfulness in both professional and educational settings.

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              Jane Terrell

              Education & Training Facilitator

              A seasoned mindfulness instructor from Auckland, New Zealand, Jane’s extensive experience in facilitating adult learning and professional development across diverse cultural settings makes her an invaluable addition to our trainee group.

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                Allan Jo An Tibbetts

                Registered Nurse

                Allan is an RN who incorporates his healthcare expertise into mindfulness teaching at college health settings. With a deep-rooted practice in Zen Buddhism, he is poised to tailor mindfulness principles to the needs of young adults in academic environments.

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                  These trainees were chosen for their dedication to spreading mindfulness and their eagerness to deepen their personal and professional journeys in mindfulness practice. Throughout the multi-phase training process, guided by experienced MIEA faculty, they will develop the skills needed to effectively conduct Teacher Certification Workshops and support the next generation of mindfulness teachers.

                  We are excited to see the positive impact our new trainers will have on the MIEA community and beyond. Welcome aboard, Allan, Buddhini, Danielle, Jane, Marcia, Paula, Sid, and Tiffany!

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                  Stay Informed and Inspired

                  Welcome to the Mindfulness Institute for Emerging Adults!

                  The name of our organization ("the Center for Koru Mindfulness") is now "Mindfulness Institute for Emerging Adults".

                  Reasons for the Name Change

                  1. Though we love the name “Koru”, it does not serve us well when administrators in higher education - our primary market - see it. It does not make it clear that we are recognized as the primary provider for evidence-based mindfulness training for the population they serve: emerging adults.
                  2. We have grown a lot, but there is much more work to do. A name that is more in line with our mission, and doesn’t have to be explained to be understood, will support our growth more broadly.
                  3. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, we feel a tug of unease about the cultural sensitivity of our name. We occasionally hear from teachers who are fielding questions from students who are concerned about the appropriateness of our use of the word "koru". It is inconsistent with our values to cause harm or discomfort in any way to anyone if we can avoid it. So we feel we need to make an effort to avoid it.

                  Timeline

                  Starting August 1, 2023, our organization will be officially known as the "Mindfulness Institute for Emerging Adults". Our curriculum name, "Koru Basic", "Koru 2.0", and "Koru Retreat" is changing to "Intro to Mindfulness", "Intro to Mindfulness, Part 2", and "Intro to Mindfulness Retreat" by January 1, 2024.

                  What's Not Changing

                  Our founders, owners, staff, trainers, mission, and vision remain the same. We will continue to offer teacher training and support as always, building a community of teachers and students who embody curiosity and kindness.

                  Thank you for being part of our journey as we transition to the Mindfulness Institute for Emerging Adults (Formerly known as Koru 😀).

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                  Allan Jo An Tibbetts

                  MIEA Trainer
                  Registered Nurse

                  My name is Allan Jo An Tibbetts, I am an RN who works in college health. I have been fortunate to be able to teach MIEA's curriculum as part of my work. I got certified in June of last year and have been teaching continually sense then.

                  What brought you to your mindfulness practice?

                  I began Zen practice in 1998, took lay precepts in 2001, and ordained as a Zen Buddhist priest in 2004. As a regular meditator I saw the power of mindfulness practice and was always looking for a way to share this with my patients. We often put fliers up at the local college informing student that there was a Zen Center just up the road. Perhaps one or two student would come and sit with us once or twice, but they never stayed. In nursing we discuss the 5 rights of medication administration. Right patient, right medication, right dose, right administration, right time....I knew the medication was right and the "patient" needed it, but somehow everything else was off.

                  Why the Mindfulness Institute for Emerging Adults?

                  This is where MIEA came to the rescue. Taking the training I was able to solve the above problems. The formulation, the dose and the way MIEA is administered allows these emerging adults to receive the medication of mindfulness. I am so grateful that MIEA figured this formula out and what I know has been transformation for me I can now share with the young adults I work with.

                  What is your favorite part of teaching MIEA?

                  I love when students share their wins in practice. The:

                  • "I could see that my anxiety about the situation was just my thoughts".
                  • "Stating to things I am grateful for each day has been an amazing practice."
                  • "Today when I walked to class, I just paid attention to my walk. I noticed things I never saw before."

                  These enlightenment moments are so rich for the student and for me as well.

                  Why did you decide to become a MIEA trainer?

                  Dogen Zenji in the Fukanzazengi, his instructions for meditation states, "If you want to experience thusness, practice thusness." MIEA helps these students see that the miracle is right here in this moment, to appreciate their lives. It gives them a life changing skill. How fortunate they are to receive this medicine so early in their lives.

                  Read more about Allan's Train Your Brain Course.

                  Buddhini Tan

                  MIEA Trainer
                  Education Group Malaysia

                  Hello, I'm Buddhini Tan from the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Since June 2022, I've been a MIEA certified teacher, as well as a Search Inside Yourself Mindfulness Teacher since 2021. Professionally, I'm a Chartered Accountant working with one of Malaysia's largest education groups.

                  What brought you to your mindfulness practice?

                  My mindfulness journey began in a university meditation class, where I discovered the serene calmness it brought. The practice has since allowed me to excel academically and professionally, enhancing my emotional intelligence and reducing stress. My aspiration is to deepen my practice continually and to share these benefits with others.

                  Why the Mindfulness Institute for Emerging Adults?

                  I find MIEA's courses to be impactful and well-structured, supported by an excellent ecosystem of resources—including a teachers' network, applications, and books—that empowers educators to teach effectively. I believe that many young individuals can become the best versions of themselves and realize their potential through discovering their inner selves via mindfulness and awareness.

                  What is your favorite part of teaching MIEA?

                  I love listening to students' experiences, encouraging their growth, suggesting solutions, and witnessing their gradual progress.

                  Why did you decide to become a MIEA trainer?

                  While I am reaping the benefits from my own practice and structured courses, I wish to extend these opportunities to like-minded practitioners in Malaysia. My aim is to facilitate access to a structured and effective certified teacher trainer course, a rare and precious resource in my country.

                  Danielle Nicholas

                  MIEA Trainer
                  Montana State University

                  My name is Danielle Nicholas. I live in Bozeman, MT. I went through MIEA training in the illustrious spring of 2020.

                  Outside of teaching MIEA curriculum to young adults, I teach for and helped start a non-profit called Montana Mindfulness Project. We aim to bring mindfulness to youth, young adults, and those that support them. I have a somatic coaching business (sometimes involving equines) and I am adjunct faculty at Montana State University. Last, but certainly not least, I am a solo mamma of a teenage daughter- thank goodness for my mindfulness practice! ;-) My beautiful daughter is also one of my best teachers.

                  What brought you to your mindfulness practice?

                  I was a religious studies major at Brown University many moons ago with a focus on Buddhism and Hinduism. I started my mindfulness and meditation journey back when I was an undergraduate and so really believe in bringing these skills to young people in an approachable and accessible way.

                  Why the Mindfulness Institute for Emerging Adults?

                  I was teaching mindfulness to young adults before I became trained at the MIEA. I was bringing in various things from my own experience, teaching, and training but it was MIEA that really presented a curriculum that is peer-reviewed and progresses in a logical way. Our university is beginning to do more and more with mindfulness (yay!) and I am so grateful to be able to approach administration with a solid secular curriculum that can be taught stand-alone or within an academic course.

                  What is your favorite part of teaching MIEA?

                  I love how well it works! Seriously. MIEA has tested the curriculum with thousands of students and it has stood the test of time. I really enjoy watching the transformation students make as they slow down and begin to discover their habitual patterns. They are put in the drivers of whether they want to change these habits or not. I love seeing young people be able to be comfortable sitting with themselves even for a few minutes instead of feeling the need to grab their phone.

                  Why did you decide to become a MIEA trainer?

                  I really do believe in and trust the curriculum. Having been on university faculty for the last decade, I see the struggles that young adults are having, especially coming out of covid. It is a challenging world they are inheriting. I feel the more we really take a look at this messy business of being human the better. I want to give other’s the skills to take these dives with the young adults in their lives.

                  Jane Terrell

                  MIEA Trainer
                  Education & Training Facilitator

                  I’m Jane Terrell, from Auckland New Zealand. I’ve been teaching MIEA (as Koru Mindfulness) courses since 2015, to university students and faculty as well as community groups in New Zealand and Vietnam.

                  Outside of MIEA I design and facilitate courses and workshops in adult learning, both online and in-person. Currently contracting as a workplace learning and professional development facilitator, I have also taught in universities, wānanga (Māori universities), vocational institutes, and workplaces in New Zealand, Austria, and Vietnam.

                  I am also a keen traveller, and fascinated grandmother to three young granddaughters.

                  What brought you to your mindfulness practice?

                  Mindfulness practice as expressed in Christian prayer and reflection were part of my life from a very early age, but seemed less relevant to me in adulthood and particularly as a parent. When I experienced anxiety and depression after a family member was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, a colleague introduced me to mindfulness-based stress reduction and the writings of Pema Chodron. I established a regular practice after attending several retreats and joining weekly meditation sits at my local Buddhist Centre.

                  Why the Mindfulness Institute for Emerging Adults?

                  That’s simple! I have been close friends with Holly ever since we met in the Tramping Club when she first came to New Zealand many years ago. We each found our own ways into mindfulness, and in 2015 she invited me to train as a mindfulness teacher and it was a perfect fit with my job and personal practice.

                  What is your favorite part of teaching MIEA?

                  I love the "Check-in" part of MIEA teaching, where we hear student stories and guide them to connect their experience with mindfulness principles and practices. The applications are endless.

                  Why did you decide to become a MIEA trainer?

                  At this time in my life, I am able to take a step back from fulltime work and explore new directions. I am looking forward to deepening my own practice and sharing mindfulness with a wider community.

                  Marcia Roman

                  MIEA Trainer
                  Valencia College

                  My name is Marcia Roman and I’ve lived in Central Florida for over 25 years (although I’m a Pennsylvania native and lived in California for about 7 years and in Belgium for a year as an undergraduate). I’ve been a MIEA teacher since 2017 and have offered all parts of the MIEA curriculum at Valencia College which is a large, multi-campus, commuter institution that was formerly part of the community college system in Florida. I am one of 14 counselors on the faculty.

                  What brought you to your mindfulness practice?

                  I was brought to my first practice of meditation through the Wisdom Tradition in which I was reared and I’m grateful for that formative influence. I was introduced to mindfulness in 2014 when I completed an MBSR program after a difficult, even traumatic, transition in my professional life. I’ve been so grateful for the practice in mending body and soul.

                  Why the Mindfulness Institute for Emerging Adults?

                  The initial draw to MIEA was how accessible it was. I learned about it through a listserv of ACMHE (Association for the Contemplative Mind in Higher Education) and the more I learned, the more appealing it became.  The curriculum was developed for emerging adults who are the primary demographic of the college where I work, the training abided by standards for teaching mindfulness, and it was both affordable and do-able within a reasonable amount of time.

                  What is your favorite part of teaching MIEA?

                  I think I love being involved in helping impart skills to MIEA participants in a supportive environment that make a real, positive difference in their lives. Whether it’s feeling stressed out, disconnected or aimless, the MIEA curriculum, and the experience of it, transforms people’s lives. 

                  Why did you decide to become a MIEA trainer?

                  It’s seems a joyful avenue to continue to learn and look for ways to contribute!

                  Paula Fitzpatrick

                  MIEA Trainer
                  Director of the Center for Well-Being, Worcester Polytechnic Institute

                  Paula Fitzpatrick has woven mindfulness into her role as the Director of the Center for Well-Being at Worcester Polytechnic Institute. With three years as a MIEA teacher under her belt, she approaches mindfulness with the same analytical rigor that defines her work in psychological science. Her introduction to Zen meditation deepened her professional practice, enriching her understanding of mental health and well-being.

                  "Even as a young child, I have been on an inner quest to find meaning, purpose, simplicity, and peace in my life. I was drawn to my professional field of psychology as one place to search for answers, am an avid reader of self-help/organizing/time management books, and practice yoga regularly."

                  Involvement with MIEA

                  Paula’s search for a suitable meditation curriculum for college students led her to MIEA. After training in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and recognizing the need for a program aligned with the pace of college life, she found MIEA’s evidence-based approach and focus on emerging adults to be the right fit.

                  Teaching Philosophy

                  In her MIEA sessions, Paula emphasizes the practical aspects of meditation, guiding students to slow down and prioritize self-care. Her teaching style is focused on debunking meditation myths, fostering self-compassion, and nurturing the kind of awareness that can have a lasting impact well beyond the classroom.

                  "I love dispelling the many myths that students have about what meditation "should" be.  I love hearing students come to the realization that they need to slow down and care for themselves. I love seeing their sharpening awareness and acceptance of non-judgment and self-compassion in their reflections."

                  Becoming a Trainer

                  Driven by a belief in the transformative power of mindfulness, Paula decided to become a MIEA Trainer to broaden the reach of mindfulness education. She is motivated by the potential to help college-aged adults manage stress and live with intention, laying the groundwork for a more compassionate society.

                  "So much of modern society focuses on chasing things that ultimately do not lead to a sense of meaning and purpose, [but rather], increases suffering. I hope to help to expand the number of certified teachers who are able to share practices to manage stress and find pathways to deep meaning and purpose... Educating our young people to slow down, be still, and live intentionally while abiding by values of non-judgment and compassion is the best hope that we have for sustainability of people, place, and planet."

                  Dr. Tiffany Bridgewater

                  MIEA Trainer
                  Head of Lower School & Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Louisville Collegiate School

                  My name is Dr. Tiffany Bridgewater. I am a transplant currently living in Kentucky and have deep roots in Tennessee, Chicago, and Northern Virginia. I spend my days doing the best job on the planet -- working with school age students in a JK-12 learning community. I am the Head of Lower School & Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Louisville Collegiate School.

                  What brought you to your mindfulness practice?

                  I began my mindfulness journey two years ago when my school asked a handful of administrators and teachers to participate in a six-week mindfulness seminar. While uncertain, I participated in the seminar and found myself looking forward to our meditation sessions. Since then, I have co-led student mindfulness seminars for juniors and seniors. I’ve also worked with an outside facilitator to implement mindfulness practices in our fourth-grade classrooms. Likewise, I work to include meditation in my DEI work with adults in schools and other non-profit organizations. My favorite part of teaching MIEA with older students is having those weary or reluctant adults and students (like me) realize that MIEA practices can help provide a way for them to label and identify their emotions to regain focus. Ultimately, I hope my work with adults and students helps them discover mindfulness practices that become lifelong practices.

                  Why the Mindfulness Institute for Emerging Adults?

                  I chose the Mindfulness Institute for Emerging Adults primarily because it was the first organization I had worked with when I first began studying mindfulness practices. MIEA, formerly Koru Mindfulness, has a wonderful group of instructors. The instructors were approachable and easy to access whenever I had questions. They developed an inclusive program that honors the demands of working adults. Moreover, as a woman of color and a person who is caring for an aging parent, I felt heard and seen throughout the process. I decided to become a MIEA trainer almost immediately. I am excited to bring my perspectives and desire to expand my MIEA practices to the cohort.

                  Illustration of two people with arms around each other reflecting community

                  Your Path to Certification

                  1. Start Your Journey
                    A commitment to a regular meditation practice and experience in teaching or facilitating groups enhances your foundation before applying. If you do not have any mindfulness experience, begin with our 5-week introductory course, Fundamentals.
                  2. Certification Workshop
                    Participate in our immersive workshop, available both in-person and online, covering the unique challenges of 18-30-year-olds, curriculum research, and teaching strategies.
                    Psychologists can earn 18 APA-approved CE credits.
                  3. Practical Experience
                    Teach three student courses, applying your knowledge in real-world settings, supported by ongoing consultations with MIEA faculty.
                  4. Portfolio Submission
                    Demonstrate your mastery through a portfolio that includes student evaluations, a reflective essay, and evidence of participating in a mindfulness meditation retreat.
                  5. Maintain Certification
                    Certified teachers are encouraged to sustain their certification with an annual fee. This fee guarantees access to MIEA's evolving resources, ongoing support, and professional development.
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                  Stay Informed and Inspired

                  Sign up for valuable insights, updates on programming, research, tips, inspiring stories, and stay connected to the world of mindfulness education.

                  By sharing your email, you agree to receive emails from MIEA and consent to the use of your information as outlined in our Privacy Policy. We are committed to your privacy and will never sell your information.

                  You can opt out of our communications anytime by using the unsubscribe link provided in our emails.

                  Siddhant Babla

                  MIEA Trainer
                  Wellbeing Program Coordinator, Dartmouth College

                  Siddhant Babla brings his expertise in education studies and mindfulness to Dartmouth College as the Wellbeing Program Coordinator. With a Master's degree from KU Leuven in Belgium and training as a Certified Yoga Instructor from the Yoga Institute in Mumbai, Sid collaborates with campus offices to cultivate student wellbeing through evidence-based programs.

                  With an Economics degree from the University of London and a background in finance, Sid pivoted towards his passion for mindfulness, which he has been teaching since April 2023.

                  Mindfulness Journey

                  Sid was drawn to mindfulness from a young age, finding solace and strength in the practice amidst personal suffering and life challenges.

                  Connection to MIEA

                  Sid appreciates MIEA for its structured, evidence-based curriculum that enables him to address a broad spectrum of mindfulness concepts, making them accessible to diverse student populations.

                  Teaching Highlights

                  For Sid, teaching MIEA has been deeply gratifying. He relishes the chance to refine his instructional skills and witness the profound effects on his students.

                  "The most rewarding part has been the transformational impact it has had on the students."

                  Vision as a Trainer

                  Sid aims to support and collaborate with mindfulness teachers nationwide, contributing to the wellbeing and mental health of college students. He believes in a systematic approach to mindfulness training as a cornerstone for building a culture of prioritized mental health and wellbeing on campuses.

                  "At a time when students on college campuses across the nation and world are in need, being in community with teachers who are supporting them will be a tremendous learning opportunity in understanding the ways wellbeing and mental health for emerging adults can be transformed.

                  "In my experience working with administrators and leadership across a college campus, it has become clear that supporting the mental health and wellbeing of students through mindfulness based practices requires a systematic approach.

                  "Individual and group based mindfulness training programs are crucial in building personal and interpersonal self-awareness skills.

                  "Training facilitators to bring mindfulness based practices to different stakeholders is key in creating a culture where wellbeing and mental health is a priority and being a MIEA Trainer will allow me to realize this vision.

                  Book: The Mindful Twenty-Something by Holly Rogers

                  Download Chapter 1 of The Mindful Twenty-Something

                  Begin your mindfulness journey with a free chapter from “The Mindful Twenty-Something” by Holly Rogers, a book praised by Sharon Salzberg for its accessibility and usefulness.

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                  Your download is being sent to your inbox this very moment!

                  Dylan Scott

                  MIEA Trainer

                  Dylan Scott is currently based in Berlin, Germany. He was born and raised outside Philadelphia, PA, and holds a B.S. in Exercise Science and Sports Psychology from Ithaca College. During his time at Ithaca, Dylan found mindfulness meditation to be a transformative resource in his struggles with anxiety and panic attacks. Upon graduating, Dylan moved back to Philadelphia and immersed himself in mindfulness courses at Pennsylvania University and Thomas Jefferson University as well as several retreats. He went on to receive extensive teacher training through the Myrna Brind Center for Mindfulness at Jefferson, completing their Practicum in MBSR for Professionals and an internship in MBSR. When Dylan came across MIEA he saw the perfect opportunity to offer mindfulness practice back to new generations of college students and jumped at the chance to join a teacher training in October 2018.

                  Dylan has offered MIEA's Intro to Mindfulness curriculum to medical students and house staff through the counseling center at Jefferson. He is now finding new opportunities to bring MIEA abroad to Berlin. He is also a passionate organizer of Berlin's WakeUp Sangha based in the Plum Village tradition founded by Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh. Outside of teaching mindfulness, Dylan feeds his passion for music by producing and DJing under the moniker Chirop and has his own freelance audio engineering business.

                  Tim Auman, Koru Mindfulness Trainer

                  Tim Auman

                  MIEA Trainer

                  Timothy L. Auman became the University Chaplain to Wake Forest in August of 2003. Tim has over two decades of experience in ministry in higher education, pastoral care, and work with religious, secular, and spiritual identity. At Wake Forest, Tim aims to build relationships amidst difference, and to cultivate healthy contemplative and mindful practices for the transformation of self and world. He previously served as the United Methodist Ecumenical Campus Minister at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, and as a pastor of two United Methodist congregations.

                  Tim created the MindfulWake program at Wake Forest in January of 2017. He began his mindfulness practice in 1985 as a way to reduce stress and credits mindfulness as key to his emotional and spiritual wellbeing. Tim practices in the Plum Village Tradition of Engaged Buddhism and will be ordained into the Order of Interbeing in April of 2020. He practices with the Planting Seeds Sangha of Chapel Hill and the Winston-Salem Community of Mindful Living.

                  Within a few months of learning about MIEA, Tim knew that he wanted to share this practice with his students. That would become an important part of his life’s work at Wake Forest. Eventually, faculty and staff started to ask Tim to teach them what he was discovering. They wanted to share the practice of mindfulness, just as Tim did. But as demand increased, Tim stumbled upon the idea of becoming a MIEA Trainer. A crazy idea at first, but being a teacher and practitioner at heart, he decided to give it a go. Tim believes that when you’re teaching with joyfulness and playfulness, you’re not just talking mindfulness...you’re living mindfulness.

                  Roger Mancastroppa, Koru Mindfulness Trainer

                  Roger “Mac” Mancastroppa

                  MIEA Trainer

                  Roger “Mac” Mancastroppa has earned a MS in Education, a MA in Theological Studies and a BS in History. He taught history and religion for over a decade before joining the University of Richmond where he serves as the Associate Director of the Academic Skills Center. Mac is in his 9th year assisting students individually and collectively with academic and life skills development. He helps students transition to a mindfully engaged learning style where they conceptualize information through meta-cognitive and executive functions. He also leads a weekly meditation session on campus known as Mindful Mondays.

                  Mac’s personal mindfulness and meditation practices began during counseling and therapy for PTSD after exiting the military. His initial training began with a psychologist who practiced Buddhism and taught him the samatha that occurs with the vipassana practice. He began to integrate it into his work by using the CD’s by Jon Kabat-Zinn as a companion to his book "Full Catastrophe Living," over and over again with students. He now works with students, faculty, staff, local non-profits, churches, and offers keynotes on mindfulness and meditation, and is one of the co-leaders of a faculty learning community that brought MIEA to the university.

                  Mil Witt, Koru Mindfulness Trainer

                  Mil Witt

                  MIEA Trainer

                  Mil Witt is a licensed PhD clinical psychologist and Psychology Training Director at the University of North Carolina’s Counseling and Psychological Services in Chapel Hill, NC (UNC-CAPS). Mil is passionate about working with emerging young adults in university settings. In addition to mindfulness, her professional interests include college mental health, the training and supervision of future clinicians, multiculturalism and diversity, and journal writing as a meditative practice. Prior to joining UNC-CAPS in 2014, Mil worked at the college counseling centers at UNC-Greensboro and Duke, and worked with medical students at The Albert Einstein College of Medicine.

                  Mil was in the inaugural class of MIEA Teachers in 2013 and has been a Certified MIEA teacher since 2015. Her meditation journey started in the mid-1990s with her first meditation teacher and mentor Dr. Ronna Rachel Weiss, and followed with mindfulness trainings and practice at the Cape Cod Institute and at Duke Integrative Medicine.  Mil is excited to work with, support, inspire, and mentor new MIEA teachers, especially those working with students of color. A proud first gen Haitian American from New York City, Mil lives in Carrboro, NC with her family. Mil is an avid tennis player and enjoys dancing, musical theatre, crochet, the beach, and spending quality time with family and friends.

                  Karen Newton, Koru Mindfulness Trainer

                  Karen S. Newton

                  MIEA Trainer

                  Karen S. Newton served as Director of Health Promotion & Wellbeing in Campus Health Services from 2007 to 2018 as her team implemented a resilience framework to support the academic persistence and personal wellbeing of University of Louisville students. Inspired by her personal experiences with mindfulness and mediation practices through many years of her life’s ups and downs, Karen added MIEA Intro to Mindfulness courses, retreats, and drop-in Relax & Refocus sessions in 2015.  Karen has also directed healthcare access initiatives for the University of Louisville and at The Healing Place Recovery. Karen graduated from San Diego State University and completed her Master of Public Health degree in community health promotion and nutrition science at Loma Linda University, CA.

                  Karen’s current life is focused on her purpose and what she loves: family, travel, practicing, and teaching. She teaches MIEA's Intro to Mindfulness and other courses at the Earth & Spirit Center Meditation School; Speed Art Museum; and her MIEA-based 14-week Mindfulness for Stress Resilience course at the University of Louisville College of Education. She is collaborating with University of Louisville colleagues to develop a research agenda to study MIEA's curriculum.

                  Karen’s public health point of view and personal perspective resonates with MIEA's commitment to social justice. Karen is committed to doing all she can to further the adoption of MIEA's Intro to Mindfulness courses in a variety of settings.

                  Erica Alexander, Koru Mindfulness Trainer

                  Erica Alexander

                  MIEA Trainer

                  Erica Alexander, flutist and music educator, has taught music and mindfulness in private and group settings for over 20 years. She has a Masters in Music Education (MME) with all-level teaching certification.

                  Erica is the founder and director of The Open Wings School which specializes in helping busy people find a lasting sense of calm in their lives and discover their own inner musicians. Among her most popular offerings are Be the Music workshops which incorporate Native American inspired flutes and meditation

                  Erica is currently enrolled in the Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification Program with Tara Brach and Jack Kornfield.

                  She has loved working with MIEA for the past 5 years, teaching in local high schools and non-profit organizations and reviewing teacher portfolios.

                  Erica lives in Durham, NC, and enjoys hiking, swimming, gardening, and listening to and playing music from all over the world.

                  “It is clear that the only way to truly change our world is through teaching compassion…We must teach people, especially our youth, the source of happiness and satisfaction. We must teach them the ultimate source of happiness is within themselves.” 

                  –The Dalai Lama, The Book of Joy
                  Chase Giroux, Koru Mindfulness Trainer

                  Chase Giroux

                  MIEA Trainer

                  Chase Giroux began her career in residential care for youth, followed by support work in an educational setting for children with behavioral health challenges. After attaining her Mental Health Counseling degree, she became a therapist trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She currently supervises an Intensive Care Coordination program, where she also provides agency-wide trainings and mindfulness practices.

                  After spending time in Buddhist Monasteries, practicing Mindfulness in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh, Chase was inspired to make this beautiful practice accessible to as many people as possible. Trained in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction and certified in the MIEA model, Chase now works hard to share this practice in a more secular context. This program will deepen and expand these efforts by supporting practitioners in sharing and teaching the practice themselves.

                  Chase lives with her family in Northampton, Massachusetts, where she can be found both playing and coaching sports in her community.

                  Bibi Gnagno, MIEA Trainer

                  Bibi Gnagno

                  MIEA Trainer

                  Bibi Gnagno is an educator and wellness advocate. Ms. Gnagno has been working with MIEA since 2016. She first began practicing meditation at church at the age of 14. While completing a law degree, she embraced mindfulness at a deeper level to cope with the daily stress of school. Bibi has taught mindfulness classes at the university level and infuses mindfulness in her interactions with students but also in her daily life.

                  Currently, she is the Dean of Restorative Practices at Eagle Rock School and Professional Development Center. Prior to that role, she was one of the Directors of Academic Engagement for Global and Civic Opportunities at Duke University’s Academic Advising Center and the former Coordinator for Student Development at Duke University’s Women’s Center, where she focused on gender equity through the creation of experiential programming and training that emphasizes community building, empowerment, men’s engagement, activism, and civic engagement.

                  Her work outside of the office explores telling stories through film using a social justice lens. She also leads workshops on wellness through reflection, movement, and healing foods.

                  Vivien Roman-Hampton, Director of Teacher Retention

                  Vivien Roman-Hampton

                  Director of Outreach & Teacher Development / MIEA Trainer

                  Vivien Roman-Hampton is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and the founder of Activated By Wellness, a group mental health practice dedicated to serving historically underserved communities for over half a decade.

                  Vivien obtained her BA in Psychology from UNLV, a graduate certificate in Women in Politics and Public Policy from UMASS Boston, her MSW from Salem State University and is currently a PhD student at UConn where her focus of research is on mindfulness and DEI. She is already working alongside faculty on integrating mindfulness into education which is evident in her current endeavor: creating and teaching a critically engaged mindfulness curriculum tailored for BSW students.

                  In her role as the Director of Outreach and Teacher Development at the Mindfulness Institute for Emerging Adults, Vivien has spent the last six years honing her skills as a mindfulness facilitator, teaching others to be mindfulness teachers, developing mindfulness curricula and fostering growth and awareness among young adults.

                  Vivien is part of the Hopping Tree Sangha located in Amherst, Massachusetts and is ordained into the Order of Interbeing, receiving her Dharma name of True Presence of Compassion. She also serves on the board of the Barre Center for Buddhist Studies and is their volunteer librarian.

                  When she isn't working, Vivien spends time with her family in the woods of Western Massachusetts.

                  Prerequisites for becoming a Certified Mindfulness Teacher with MIEA

                  1. Complete our Fundamentals Course*.
                    Immerse yourself in our 5-week introductory course led by a highly trained MIEA Trainer. Experience our Intro to Mindfulness curriculum and gain insight into our philosophy of teaching mindfulness to college-aged adults.
                  2. An ongoing personal practice, most days, for at least 6 months.
                    To effectively teach mindfulness, it is essential to have a consistent personal practice.
                  3. Teaching or Group Facilitation Experience.
                    Prior experience in teaching or facilitating groups is recommended. Our small group learning model forms the basis of our approach. Experience in this setting will be valuable.
                  4. Diversity Experience.
                    Experience working with diverse populations or participating in diversity training is strongly recommended. MIEA aims to bring mindfulness to a diverse range of communities. While we address this in our training program, additional experience is valuable.

                  *Acceptable alternatives to Fundamentals include MBSR, MBCT, MSC, training by the Center for Mind-Body Medicine, formal mindfulness training with an experienced teacher, or attendance to multiple retreats.

                  Mindfulness for the Next Generation

                  Book: Mindfulness for the Next Generation by Holly Rogers and Maytan

                  This book, written by MIEA’ co-founder Holly Rogers and Margaret Maytan, is the essential text for those interested in teaching mindfulness to college students and other emerging adults. It is a required reading for teachers getting their certification.

                  Learn more about this book

                  Suit Fong Chan, Asia Pacific Regional Rep

                  Suit Fong Chan

                  Asia Pacific Regional Representative / MIEA Trainer

                  Suit Fong’s interest in mindfulness began more than twenty years ago when she attended her first meditation retreat in Nepal. In 2012, she made a life-changing decision to leave a global corporate career to pursue her passion, embarking on a continuous learning and teaching journey on evidence-based mindfulness programs. She finds the journey meaningful, transformative, and also nurturing.

                  Suit Fong is trained to teach mindfulness and compassion cultivation programs for children, young adults, and adults. She also facilitates and curates mindfulness programs to support families and individuals with additional needs in Singapore, where she lives with her family. It is now her life passion and learning, to serve and support others of different diversities, cultures, and (dis)abilities to learn to sit with ease with life’s discomforts, build mental resilience whilst practicing kindness to oneself and to others. Her current work involves working with women, youth, teenagers at risk, and those with special needs. As a MIEA trainer, she is very keen to help establish a cadre of professional mindfulness teachers in the Asia Pacific, so more emerging adults and youths in the Asia Pacific may benefit from the MIEA program.

                  Suit Fong is an accredited professional coach, and chartered accountant. She holds a Master's in Business Administration and a Master's Degree in Counseling.

                  The Mindful Twenty-Something: Life skills to handle stress… & everything else

                  The Mindful Twenty-Something by Holly Rogers

                  This book, written by MIEA co-founder Holly Rogers, is an essential guide to MIEA's curriculum, Intro to Mindfulness (formerly known as Koru Mindfulness). It is required reading for students and teachers getting their certification.

                  Learn more about this book

                  Jennie Dickson-Mills, MIEA Trainer and Director of Training

                  Jennie Dickson-Mills

                  Director of Training / MIEA trainer
                  MSW, LCSW, SEP, E-RYT 200

                  Jennie is a psychotherapist and yoga/meditation teacher. She has over a decade of experience working in higher education, and thousands of hours of experience teaching yoga and mindfulness to people from a wide range of backgrounds. She received a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from St. Mary’s College of Maryland in 2002 and a Master of Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2013.

                  Jennie’s clinical practice focuses on delivering experiential therapies through an anti-oppression and relational lens, with a specialized certification in Somatic Experiencing, a model that addresses trauma and its impact on nervous system regulation. Prior to opening her private practice in Chapel Hill, NC, in 2017, Jennie worked as a counselor at Duke University’s counseling center where she began teaching the MIEA curriculum to students. Alongside Holly and Libby, she began training MIEA teachers around the U.S. in 2014. Jennie spearheaded the first MIEA Train-the-Trainer Program in 2019 as Director of Training and immensely enjoyed growing the MIEA family of Trainers to support the growth of the program.

                  Contemplative mind-body practices transformed Jennie’s life and started her on her own path of healing and growth in her twenties. Since then, she has found deep comfort and inspiration in the wisdom traditions of yoga and Buddhism, which have helped form a bedrock of support on this ever-changing, complex human journey. As a new mother, she has opened to a new universe of opportunities to practice presence, gratitude, and curiosity. For more information about Jennie, check out her website at jenniedicksonmills.com.

                  Alex Brown, Director of Operations

                  Alex Brown

                  Director of operations / MIEA Trainer

                  Alex Brown developed his passion for practicing and sharing mindfulness in 2012 after participating in a guided meditation and having a transformative experience. Since then, he has sought to strengthen his love and compassion for himself and others through daily meditation, reading, and courses. He has an immense desire to help others do the same.

                  Alex is a native of Detroit, Michigan, loves spending time with his sons, family, and friends, and finds utter delight in dancing. He thoroughly enjoys helping people learn about the different ways in which they improve their overall health and wellbeing and his motto is “I live to serve.”

                  Holly Rogers, co-founder of Koru Mindfulness

                  Holly Rogers

                  Co-Founder of MIEA / Author

                  Holly is one of the developers of the Intro to Mindfulness curriculum and a co-founder of the Mindfulness Institute for Emerging Adults (formerly known as the Center for Koru Mindfulness). She worked for over two decades as a psychiatrist at Counseling and Psychological Services, the student counseling center at Duke University where she developed strategies to help students incorporate the practice of mindfulness into their lives in a meaningful way.

                  Holly’s own mindfulness practice began more than 25 years ago when she had the good fortune to be taught and mentored by Dr. Jeff Brantley. Since that time, she has integrated the principles and practice of mindfulness into her clinical work with students and been continually inspired by the profound growth she has witnessed.

                  Holly is the co-author of Mindfulness for the Next Generation: Helping Emerging Adults Manage Stress and Lead Healthier Lives. She is author of The Mindful Twenty-Something, a handbook for young adults who wish to learn about mindfulness and meditation.

                  She lives in Durham, NC with her husband, dog, and two cats.

                  Libby Webb, co-founder of Koru Mindfulness

                  Libby Webb

                  Co-Founder of MIEA

                  Libby is a co-founder of the Mindfulness Institute for Emerging Adults. Before retiring in 2016, she was a licensed clinical social worker at Duke University’s Counseling and Psychological Service, and a Clinical Associate on the faculty of the Department of Psychiatry at Duke University Medical Center.

                  She has been working with emerging adults since the early 90's and finds great significance in helping them explore the question of meaning at a time of life filled with such ambiguity.

                  Libby came to the practice of mindfulness through her early participation in the Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Program. Her meditation practice is built on the Vipassana tradition of mindfulness.

                  In addition to her interest in mindfulness, she also has a strong belief in the restorative benefits of small group work to illuminate the humanness of struggle. Libby lives with her family in Durham, NC and loves her adopted hometown. Most of her mindfulness lessons have been learned while cycling on the country roads surrounding her hometown.