Naropa University facts for kids
 |
|
|
Former names
|
Naropa Institute (1974–1999) |
|---|---|
| Type | Private university |
| Established | 1974 |
| Founder | Chögyam Trungpa |
| Accreditation | HLC |
|
Religious affiliation
|
Shambhala Buddhism |
| Endowment | $8.34 million (2019) |
| President | Charles G. Lief |
|
Academic staff
|
164 |
| Undergraduates | 402 |
| Postgraduates | 617 |
| Location |
,
,
United States
|
| Campus | Midsize City, 12 acres (0.049 km2) |
| Colors | Heather Purple |
| Nickname | Bodhi Cheetahs |
Naropa University is a special kind of private university located in Boulder, Colorado. It was started in 1974 by a Tibetan Buddhist teacher named Chögyam Trungpa. The university is named after an ancient Indian wise man called Naropa, who lived in the 11th century.
Naropa says it's inspired by Buddhist ideas, but it's open to all beliefs and isn't just for Buddhists. It's a place where different spiritual paths can come together. They encourage unique activities like meditation to help students learn, alongside regular classes.
Naropa was the first university inspired by Buddhist teachings in the U.S. to get official approval (called regional accreditation) in 1988. This means its degrees are recognized, just like other universities. It's also famous for its Jack Kerouac School of Disembodied Poetics, where many famous "Beat poets" have taught.
Contents
How Naropa University Started
Naropa University was founded by Chögyam Trungpa. He was a Tibetan spiritual leader who came to the USA in 1970. In 1974, he started Naropa Institute.
Trungpa invited famous poets like Allen Ginsberg and Anne Waldman, and composer John Cage, to help create a poetry department. Ginsberg and Waldman came up with the name for the Jack Kerouac School of Disembodied Poetics.
Naropa started offering its first official degree programs in 1975–76. These included studies in Buddhist topics, visual art, and psychology. They also offered certificates in dance, theater, and poetry.
What is Contemplative Education?
Naropa University is known for something called "contemplative education." This means they teach students to be more aware and focused. They do this through activities like:
- Meditation
- The Japanese tea ceremony
- Taijiquan (a Chinese martial art)
- Walking a Christian labyrinth
- Ikebana (Japanese flower arranging)
These practices help students become more precise, gentle, and spontaneous. Naropa believes that being present and aware helps students learn better.
Even though it's inspired by Buddhism, Naropa is open to practices from many different world religions. It aims to help students develop self-awareness and insight. This "interior work" helps prepare them to do good and make positive changes in the world.
Notable People Who Studied Here
Many talented people have studied at Naropa University. Here are a few:
- Gregory Alan Isakov
- Brenda Coultas
- Bunky Echo-Hawk
- Justine Frischmann
- Tim Z. Hernandez
- Jonathan Siegrist
- Cedar Sigo
- Eleni Sikelianos
- Brad Will
See also
In Spanish: Universidad Naropa para niños
- Buddhist universities and colleges in the United States
