Community

Our community is diverse, capable, and heartfelt. Our members and friends include dedicated senior teachers who have walked the Shambhala Buddhist path for many years, and enthusiastic newcomers who are just discovering our teachings on realizing basic goodness and building enlightened society.

Who We Are

Jan Snyder is our Group Coordinator for the Gainesville Shambhala sangha. A clinical psychologist in private practice for over 30 years, Jan has been actively engaged in the Shambhala community since 2007. She is authorized as a Shambhala Guide and has been certified to teach several Shambhala classes. Jan lives on 3 1/2 acres in SW Gainesville with her husband, several standard poodles…and 19 chickens. She enjoys kayaking, biking, swimming, and hiking (most any activity in nature!).

Nora Wiser is our Practice & Education Coordinator. A small business owner/operator for 20 years, she retired in 2012 and now spends time teaching yoga, serving the Gainesville Shambhala sangha in several capacities, and facilitating courses for Shambhala Online. Nora started on the Shambhala Path in 2007. Authorized as a Shambhala Guide and an Assistant Director; she is also certified to teach several Shambhala classes. She enjoys reading, cooking, hiking, kayaking and yoga. Nora and her husband Randy are “snowbirds” dividing their time between Gainesville, Florida, and Traverse City, Michigan.