"Through blending knowledge and mindfulness, we discover important skills for living with purpose. By embracing wisdom and staying focused on the present, we lay the groundwork for a society that is peaceful and enlightened." - Christine, Los Angeles Times
Christine's educational and professional journey is a testament to the value of interdisciplinary studies and the profound impact that a diverse educational background can bring to one's personal and professional development.
With her foundations in Contemplative Science, Education, Human Development, Psychology, and Law, acquired from institutions such as the University of California, Los Angeles, and Berkeley, Emory University, and various programmes abroad, Christine has positioned herself at the intersection of several critical and emerging fields.
Her choice of these particular institutions highlights a strategic approach to her education, focusing on environments known for their pioneering research and collaborative ethos in contemplative science and compassion-based ethics.
These areas of study, which focus on understanding the neurological and physiological bases of compassion, as well as the clinical and practical applications of contemplative practices, are increasingly recognised for their importance in addressing the complex challenges of the modern world.
Fascinating Fact: Christine acquired her driving skills on an auto racing track in the United States.
As a committed educator, Christine's influence extends beyond the classroom, emphasizing systemic change and reforms in restorative justice through her efforts in advocacy, law, curriculum development, and ontology.
This unique combination has led to research and work delving into the philosophical underpinnings of human development, examining how our understanding of reality and existence influences psychological and social development, self-identity, and purpose.
Her written works delve into the intersection of human behavior and development, psychology, and civil law. As an accomplished author, she engages global audiences through print, electronic, and television media.
Interesting Trivia: Christine has authored two children's books.
In addition to her academic, advocacy, and literary endeavors, Christine actively engages in public service within the realms of civil and social justice. This involvement includes elected roles, serving as a docent, and volunteering with various local, state, and national government and non-governmental programs. She contributes to boards, cabinets, task forces, and work groups, sought after for her dedication to fostering thoughtful and optimistic integration where inclusive environments and systems are paramount.
Annually, she receives invitations to engage in distinguished lecture series, organized by esteemed institutions and organizations recognized for their academic excellence, research accomplishments, and global impact. Despite her rooted commitment to her home institution and organizations, instructing in a specialized fields of human development, conflict resolution and egalitarianism, she maintains an active presence in the local community.
Passionately underscoring essential core principles, Christine focuses on human rights, fair resource distribution, inclusive participation, and combating discrimination. Her aim is to foster solidarity and dignity in a just society, dismantling systemic barriers, promoting and integrating these principles across all surroundings and particularly for youth.
Fascinating Fact: Christine is most inspired in her life by the former Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg.
Her inquisitiveness about human behavior has granted her the chance to lead initiatives that align with her values. She holds the belief that every individual possesses inherent purpose, irrespective of their abilities. She maintains that a person's actions should not be categorized as positive or negative, but rather as a form of communication. She advocates for society's responsibility to comprehend the underlying messages being conveyed, particularly in the context of our most vulnerable populations.
In the realm of conflict resolution, Empathy Circles distinguish themselves as a community-based practice firmly rooted in restorative justice principles. Christine aims to reshape the narrative surrounding conflict resolution, embracing a model that prioritizes active listening and connection, with the ultimate goal of weaving a more thriving, robust social tapestry.
Christine guides structured dialogues that emphasize reflective listening, empathy, and collaborative problem-solving allowing individuals to be heard and understood. The objective is to establish a space that not only addresses harm but also cultivates healing connections. These circles go beyond conventional conflict resolution methods and aspire to offer an alternative approach to repairing the community cohesion rather than resorting to punitive measures.
Interesting Trivia: Christine core values are self-expression, connection and activism.
Christine's global outreach extends to volunteering with Tibetan Children’s Villages, Mind and Life Institute, The Foundation for Developing Compassion and Wisdom, and The Center for Contemplative Science and Compassion-Based Ethics. She further supports organizations reshaping conversations around psychological resilience, inclusion for all abilities in society, substance use and harm reduction, a well-being model for physical and mental health. She has a special interest in social-emotional programs, such a Cultivating Emotional Balance. Rooted in two decades of service and study within Tibetan Buddhism, her ongoing practice of contemplative mindfulness shapes her worldview.
Motivated by life experience and education, Christine is an enthusiastic advocate for families and young people. Leveraging her expertise in civil and social justice, she champions educational reform, emphasizing the inclusion of students with diverse abilities in all settings. Contributing to the study of psychological resilience, she explores how individuals' philosophical and existential beliefs influence their ability to cope with adversity.
Her research focuses on the relationship between existential or ontological beliefs and mental health outcomes. As a contemplative Buddhist and meditation practitioner she explores the concept of non-duality, emphasizing the interconnectedness and inseparability of all things. This approach involves transcending dualistic thinking to experience a sense of unity and oneness.
Interesting Trivia: Christine observes Bodhi Day and Festivus in December.
Frequently serving as a neutral observer, Christine draws on her knowledge in human development to offer valuable insights to professionals in and out of the educational and legal system particularly in cases involving intricate facets of child and adolescent behavior. Systematically collecting and evaluating, she clarifies evidence and delivers crucial expert opinions, elucidates findings, and provides crucial opinions, playing a pivotal role in proceedings where a thorough understanding of individuals is essential and a comprehensive understanding is imperative.
Christine, a trainer of trainers for crisis intervention, places a high emphasis on cultivating a non-judgmental and empathetic environment in her training efforts. This foundational approach equips her with the knowledge to effectively address a spectrum of issues, spanning from anxiety to acute crises. Her adept skills in active listening, de-escalation, and rapport ensure that each interaction is marked by compassion, and establishing a secure space for those experiencing emotional distress.
Residing in the inner city, Christine's lifestyle is anchored in academia, and she devotes her leisure time to varied pursuits such as urban gardening of fruits and vegetables, enjoying the pacific ocean, outdoor cinema, art exhibition spaces, textile crafting and practicing compassion and benevolence in her daily life.
Fascinating Fact: Christine regularly attends multiple music festivals and concerts.