Gail Kollner began investigating Buddhism in the 1970s, taking refuge with Dodrupchen Rinpoche in 1974. She met Sogyal Rinpoche during this period when he was interpreting for Dudjom Rinpoche, and felt a strong connection. She formally requested to become Sogyal Rinpoche’s student in 1985, and assisted for many years to organize events and retreats in America. She has been a national team member, course instructor, and US retreat presenter.
Gail has completed two three-month retreats and Rigpa’s 2006–2013 study programme, the Home Retreat Intensive Programme. She continues to serve on the US teaching services team and currently coordinates the curriculum and teachers. She has a particular interest in the teachings on ngöndro and on death and dying.
Gail has been a registered nurse specializing in hospice care, and has a Masters degree in Psychology. She has also studied calligraphy and book-making, and has a black belt in Aikido.
