Philosophy, Cosmology,
and Consciousness Program

Tell us a little about your background and your personal interests.

I was born in New Jersey and grew up in Ann Arbor, Michigan. I got married in June 2004, and the creation of a loving partnership with my wife Vina is easily the most important aspect of my life. In addition to my personal life, my work, and my studies, I practice qigong and meditation, love the outdoors, and dabble in martial arts and other sports.

What were you doing before you came to CIIS?

Before I came to CIIS I was an in-home child and family therapist in northern Arizona. I have also practiced massage therapy for the last eight years, explored wilderness all around North America, worked extensively in concert and event production, and participated in numerous political campaigns. I am currently employed as a research videographer.

Why did you choose the Philosophy, Cosmology, and Consciousness program?

I chose the program based almost entirely on its mission statement. This statement acknowledges the potential for the type of world crisis we are facing today, identifies the need for a deep understanding of the worldviews that have contributed to this tenuous state, and promotes the creation of new philosophies that may help humanity to avert disaster and create healing.

What specifically appealed to you about CIIS?

The explicit attention given to spirituality at CIIS has created a community of learning in which the deep meaning of the work that we do at the Institute can be felt, acknowledged, and shared. This is to me what is most precious and unique about CIIS.

What has been the most significant impact of studying in this department?

The deepest significance of my experience in this department has been its total effect on my whole self—my entire character has changed for the better. As a result, I am far more skilled intellectually, my passion for learning and for life has grown, I have gained integrity, and I am more compassionate. These changes are possible only because of the depth of heart present in our learning community.

Has one particular course had a profound impact on you, personally or professionally?

The course that really launched my intellectual life was a philosophy seminar called Participatory Epistemology. What made this course unique was the way in which the ideas that we studied altered my perceptions of reality. Though I had been moving in this direction for a while, it was during this course that I truly experienced the practice of philosophy as yielding consciousness-enhancing effects.

What is unique or special about the CIIS community? How do you find community here?

The CIIS community is unique in its collaborative spirit and in the loving support that many faculty and students bring to the body of relationships that make up the Institute. I have found community both through my classes and through the regular retreats and parties that the Philosophy, Cosmology, and Consciousness program and other programs run. These extra-scholastic events do a great deal to foster a deep sense of community that the classes alone cannot.

What are your current projects?

The most consuming work in which I am immersed right now is writing my first book. I am writing about spiritual practice and social action—how these pursuits are not only complementary, but often share the same goals. I am also usually involved with some form of community activism. At the moment I am organizing a fall antiracism workshop for Philosophy, Cosmology, and Consciousness students and faculty.

What are your plans after you graduate from CIIS?

After I graduate from CIIS, I hope to have gained enough exposure to be able to earn a living through writing and presenting workshops and lecture tours—in other words, I hope to be a public intellectual.

Philosophy, Cosmology, and Consciousness Program