I began practicing Soto Zen Buddhism in 2019 and became a resident at Angel City Zen Center in 2020. I completed jukai (taking the precepts) with Gyokei Yokoyama in 2022, a training ango with my teacher Dave Cuomo in 2025, and received lay dharma transmission later that year.
I serve as board president and caretaker at ACZC, where as a lay teacher I support the sangha in both practice and the ongoing life of the center.
The practice shapes everything I do; the way I listen, the questions I ask, and my conviction that transformation happens through presence rather than force.
If you're interested in practicing with us, Angel City Zen Center offers daily zazen, weekly dharma talks, and regular retreats. All of our programming is beginner-friendly and everyone is welcome.