Supporting Community

Gen-la Chokyi Dhakpa (Michael Gregory) is the founder of the Summit Dharma Center in Colorado, USA (www.summitdharmacenter.org).  He has been instrumental in the initiation, development, and funding of the Bodhicharya Three Year Retreat Center. 

A former investment banker from New York, Chokyi Dhakpa's path in Buddhism spans nearly 18 years, starting with his exposure to Western Philosophy in college, culminating in his studies under Gyalstab Rinpoche and Ringu Tulku Rinpoche, Karma Kagyu lineage masters.

Rinpoche's uncle and Ama-la, his mother, provide blessings, prayers and immeasurable support for the community.

enlarged photo

Pema and Momo oversee all logistical aspects of the three year retreat center.  They coordinate construction, maintenance, communications and support.  Pema, born in 1967, is Rinpoche's younger brother.

'Salga' is  the chief artist for the religious paintings and sculptures in the retreat center.  His crew of artists, based in Kathmandu, specializes in thankga painting.  Salga, born in 1962, is Rinpoche's younger brother.

Tashi is the site manager and retreat center cook.

Ani-la practices Tibetan Medicine in Gangtok.

Dr. Diane Lucas is a pediactric  physician from Denver, Colorado.  She is a participant in the three year retreat (and is readily available for assistance!).

Construction of the retreat center required the work of literally hundreds of laborers, including porters, masons, carpenters, plumbers, electricians, and painters.  All materials were carried to the site, about 1 km from the road.

Photos of Laborers