Acharya Christie Cashman began studying the Shambhala Buddhist teachings in 1971. She teaches a full range of courses—from introductory meditation intensives at Naropa University to Vajrayana sadhana classes and Shambhala Training levels. For many years, her life has revolved around monthlong meditation retreats and intensive study. Acharya Cashman served as the international executive director of Shambhala Training from 1999 to 2003.