Image

ABOUT THE JAMES BLUMENTHAL CONTEMPLATIVE STUDIES FUND

Jim Blumenthal, a professor of Religion at Oregon State and renowned scholar of Buddhist philosophy, was integral to the establishment of contemplative studies activities at OSU. As an educator, Jim’s goal was to introduce his students to other cultures and traditions, in hopes that open-mindedness would lead to a more peaceful world and more self-awareness. He taught courses in Indian and Tibetan intellectual history, as well as contemporary and historical Buddhist philosophy.  He brought Buddhism experts and luminaries into his classrooms, and his generosity of spirit made him an important and well-loved mentor to his students.

To honor Jim’s legacy at OSU and support further development of the Contemplative Studies Initiative, the James Blumenthal Contemplative Studies Fund was established in 2015 by John Edwards, now former Director of the OSU School of Psychological Science, together with his wife Karen.

Gifts to the fund are welcome, encouraged and very much needed to realize the goals of the Contemplative Studies Initiative and honor Jim’s memory.  Our sights are set on providing a compelling, ongoing calendar of community events and retreats, creating scholarships to fund student study, supporting related research, and one day stewarding a dedicated space for contemplative practice and education.