The front facade of the Lincoln Building
The front facade of the Lincoln Building
About Naropa › Leadership › Past Presidents

Past Presidents

Since the founding of the Naropa Institute in 1974, many individuals have contributed to its growth and development. While the designations of Naropa’s leadership positions have changed over its history, each of the individuals in these positions of leadership has offered exemplary vision and direction to shape Naropa’s path.

Photographed at the recent 50th Anniversary Gala from left to right are Charles G. Lief (2012–present), Barbara Dilley (1985–1993), Judy L. Lief (1980–1985), Stuart C. Lord (2009–2011), and John Whitehouse Cobb (1993–2003; 2011–2012). 

Naropa's Leaders

Charles G. Lief

7th President, 22 July 2012–present

John cobb

John Whitehouse Cobb

6th President, 2011–2012

Stuart C. Lord

5th President, 2009–2011

Thomas B. Coburn, President Emeritus

4th President, 2003–2009

John Whitehouse Cobb

3rd President, 1993–2003

Barbara Dilley

Barbara Dilley

2nd President, 1985–1993

Trungpa

Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche, Founder

1st President, 1974–1985

Judith Lief

Judith L. Lief

Dean, 1980–1985

Reginald Ray

Co-Director (with William McKeever), 1978–1980

William McKeever

Co-Director (with Reginald Ray), 1978–1980 Executive Director, 1977–1978
John baker

John Baker

Vice President, 1974–1975

Martin W. Janowitz

Executive Director, 1974–1975

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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.  

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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.

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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

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. 

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. 

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Naropa Campuses Closed on Friday, March 15, 2024

Due to adverse weather conditions, all Naropa campuses will be closed Friday, March 15, 2024.  All classes that require a physical presence on campus will be canceled. All online and low-residency programs are to meet as scheduled.

Based on the current weather forecast, the Healing with the Ancestors Talk & Breeze of Simplicity program scheduled for Friday evening, Saturday, and Sunday will be held as planned.

Staff that do not work remotely or are scheduled to work on campus, can work remotely. Staff that routinely work remotely are expected to continue to do so.

As a reminder, notifications will be sent by e-mail and the LiveSafe app.  

Regardless of Naropa University’s decision, if you ever believe the weather conditions are unsafe, please contact your supervisor and professors.  Naropa University trusts you to make thoughtful and wise decisions based on the conditions and situation in which you find yourself in.

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