MUM trustees pitch in Alumna Anna Bruen helps clean Enrollment surges in online on all areas of campus life up Iowa’s abandoned coal mines master’s degree programs

MAHARISHI UNIVERSITY OF MANAGEMENT UNIVERSITY REPORT 2016 -2017

U.S. Congressman Tim Ryan commencement address inspires graduates MESSAGE FROM OUR FOUNDER

he process of education takes place in the MAHARISHI UNIVERSITY OF MANAGEMENT field of consciousness. The prerequisite for gaining complete education, complete UNIVERSITY REPORT “T 2016 - 2017 knowledge – the prerequisite for knowing everything, experiencing everything, and doing everything – is to

bring the awareness to the level of pure intelligence, CAMPUS NEWS FEATURES pure knowledge, self-referral intelligence, self-referral consciousness, Transcendental Consciousness.” 4 | Program in regenerative organ- 10 | U.S. Congressman Tim Ryan ic agriculture launches delivers commencement address – Maharishi Mahesh Yogi 6 | President Hagelin leads peace summit in Ukraine “We need leaders who are established in that un- derlying unity of life” 7 | Students learn sustainability in Hawaii MESSAGE FROM OUR PRESIDENT 7 | New screenwriting program off to strong start n this past year, our University has competitors in science, arts, and athlet- 8 | Sustainable Living Center made tremendous progress across ics, demonstrating the power of Con- extraordinarily energy efficient Ian impressive range of new initia- sciousness-Based education in devel- tives – even as many more tantalizing oping the full potential of life. Campus improvements opportunities are quickly unfolding But all these accomplishments are before us. This 2016 – 2017 Universi- just the beginning. Even though last 8 | Outdoor amphitheater ty Report provides a quick overview of year we graduated (and thereby lost) constructed these latest inspiring achievements and a record number of students, by Fall 9 | Over 175 trees planted emerging opportunities. 2017, we had over 1,700 students en- As you will see, our University’s core rolled at the University. We are now 9 | Men’s dormitories renovated mission, deep values, and significance launching an online B.A. in Liberal to the world were brilliantly summa- Arts aimed at the hundreds of thou- 9 | Affordable townhomes built rized by our 2017 Commencement sands of students nationally who are near campus 14 | Alumna Anna Bruen helps clean speaker, Congressman Tim Ryan, who planning to complete their college de- truly gave a speech for the ages. Our grees. This summer we expect to build ACHIEVEMENTS up Iowa’s abandoned coal mines University’s most innovative academic a 1+ megawatt solar array with state- stitution – and especially our visionary Dedicated to improving lives in southeastern Iowa programs – our Regenerative Organic of-the-art technology that will provide and generous donors. We have so many 28 | Faculty achievements Agriculture program, our Masters in one-third of our campus’s electrical opportunities for progress and expan- 32 | Student achievements 18 | MUM trustees pitch in on all Maharishi AyurVeda and Integrative needs. We are substantially renovating sion that are ripe for the plucking! We Medicine, and our Hawaii Sustainabil- and upgrading our campus, including only need to work together as a family, 36 | Maharishi School areas of campus life ity courses – have been hugely popular the Argiro Student Center, the Arts and to commit our collective focus and achievements From overseeing renovation to raising funds for and have won significant acclaim. Our Center, the Library, the Visitors Cen- resources to realizing the potential that the endowment valiant trustees are spearheading cru- ter, and historic Henn Mansion, as well lies before us. INSTITUTIONAL cial initiatives in all areas of University as key student dormitories to accom- I look forward to working with you ADVANCEMENT 24 | Enrollment surges in online life, and our alumni are winning nota- modate our rising enrollments. to accomplish all these inspiring goals ble awards and transforming society All these achievements are driven in this coming year. master’s degree programs for the better – both locally and global- by the extraordinary dedication, hard 40 | Our supporters Offering degrees in Maharishi Vedic Science and ly. And our brilliant students continue work, and guiding intelligence of every- 56 | Legacy giving opportunities to win top honors against renowned one associated with our incredible in- in Maharishi AyurVeda

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rofessor Appachanda Thimmaiah is REGENERATIVE passionate about agriculture, but not Pjust any kind. He preaches, and lives, “regenerative organic agriculture.” The aim of ORGANIC Dr. Thimmaiah’s new program is to create self- sufficient farming systems where all the inputs, such as seeds, manures, and bio-pesticides, are AGRICULTURE produced on the farm itself.

NEW PROGRAM LAUNCHES And in his typically charismatic fash- Agriculture Center that will house a farm managers, establish their own ion, Dr. Thimmaiah attracts others conference room, classrooms, and of- farms, write books, educate veterans with his vision, launching a new nine- fice space was expected to begin in the about sustainable agriculture, and get month certificate program in regener- latter part of 2017. into urban gardening. This is agriculture that enriches the soil rath- ative organic agriculture in January of The first of its kind in the country, “The purpose of this course is to er than depleting it, that sequesters carbon 2017 and enrolling a dozen students. this new program is a collaborative create an army of future farmers who from the air rather than contributing The students begin with a course effort among five internationally re- can redesign and restructure the cur- on culturing the intelligence of nature, nowned organizations in the field of rent food and agriculture systems,” Dr. to global warming, that ensures which linked Maharishi’s knowledge organic and biodynamic agriculture. Thimmaiah said. “Graduates of this the purest and healthiest with agriculture. That’s followed by In addition to the certificate program, program will have confidence to farm courses on farming practices, organic MUM’s Department of Sustainable or start their own business in regener- vegetables, and that is in agriculture, and soil science. Then they Living began offering a bachelor’s de- ative organic agriculture.” tune with the laws of spend six months in the field. gree in regenerative organic agriculture For more information, see www. in the fall of 2017. mum.edu/roa-certificate. nature. Selling produce at farmers market Learning both farming and The first cohort began their field work business practices by starting seeds in the greenhouses, “We learn the practical experience of then planted their crops. By May they farming, and then, with the farmers had begun selling the fruits of their market, the business aspect as well,” harvest at the Fairfield Farmers Mar- said student Mike Dwyer. “It’s a really ket and Everybody’s Café. Their pro- good program. You don’t get this full duce included salad greens, radishes, experience elsewhere.” kale, chard, peas, zucchini, tomatoes, Students have tilled the ground, beans, sweet corn, carrots, and melon. made rows and raised beds, aerated The farm is located on 24 acres of the soil, and learned to make and ap- land immediately north of the grain ply compost and compost tea, as well elevator that borders campus. A as organic garlic-based pest repellent. 4,800-square-foot building on the site They also have learned how to irrigate, was completely renovated and is used weed properly, and put up trellises. In for cleaning and storing vegetables, addition to the various growing tech- as well as storing equipment. Other niques, students also engage in team amenities include lockers, a changing building and farm management prac- area, bathrooms, and showers. A loft tices. “We’re always working as a team area includes a small library of books and communicating about what we Regenerative organic agriculture farm on agriculture and also serves as a cur- need to do,” said Theodore Sanler. located north of campus. Harvesting ing area for garlic, onions, and squash. The students come from diverse carrots and selling produce at the In addition, construction of the new backgrounds and their career plans are Fairfield Farmers Market (opposite page) Petra Stanley Regenerative Organic just as diverse. They aspire to become

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President Hagelin leads Students study sustainability in Hawaii Students now have the option of spending a se- remote. Issues residents face include soil fertility, Peace Summit in Ukraine mester studying sustainable living in Hawaii, and energy, transportation, urban planning, employ- the first groups to do so in the 2016–17 academic ment, inequality, and access to fresh water. A major summit in Ukraine in June “higher brain,” and overstimulates the “This Brain-Based Ap- year found their experience to be immensely re- This new program, which is hosted at the Ko- entitled “Science and Peace: Proven amygdala, the “fear center,” causing ag- warding. hala Institute, is designed as a semester abroad, Solutions to Violence and Global Con- gressive, violent, fear-driven behavior. proach to Peace offers a Why Hawaii? The Big Island is home to many during which MUM students and students from flict” brought together leaders from 21 “If these tensions grow unchecked field-tested solution to sustainable farmers and homesteaders, intention- other universities engage in an intensive explo- countries to hear about science-based – if they reach a boiling point – they global conflict and a prac- al communities, and craftsmen, as well as native ration of sustainability, transformative leadership, approaches to peace. The conference, inevitably erupt in social violence, Hawaiians who are maintaining their ancient cul- and consciousness. The 2016-17 modules includ- hosted by the Global Union of Sci- terrorism, and war,” said Dr. Hage- tical technology to create ture. Thanks to the many connections Professor ed sustainability and the dilemmas of the entists for Peace and attended by 600 lin. “To prevent such violence, we peace on earth.” Lonnie Gamble has made on the Big Island, the 21st century; sustainability and Ha- people, was led by MUM President need to defuse societal stress and re- Dr. Hagelin students spend much of their time learning from waiian studies; technology and de- John Hagelin, who is also the interna- store balanced brain functioning.” Dr. these local specialists and doing service work in sign for sustainable living; and team tional president of that organization. Orme-Johnson presented extensive Army generals in Ecuador and Bra- their enterprises. projects. (See current offerings at The audience represented the top research showing how the Transcen- zil gave reports about how peace was Student Danny Flynn, for example, spent a www.mum.edu/hawaii.) tier of Ukrainian scientific, academic, dental Meditation® technique restores achieved in their countries after pro- week at the Hawaii Institute of Pacific Agriculture, The Kohala Institute military, and governmental leadership. balanced functioning in the brain and tracted civil war. a sustainable farming operation that focuses on is located on 2,500 They had been invited primarily by in society, and Dr. Nidich reported on Among the presenters was Joachim living off the land and growing food that’s nu- acres on the large- Ukrainian leaders Lt. General Vasyl the positive outcomes of a recent study Chissano, former president of Mo- tritious, safe, and good for the environment. He ly rural Big Island, Krutov, former chief of the Ukraine on TM® and PTSD that was funded zambique, who spoke via prerecorded helped with composting, mulching, planting, and which has just Anti-Terrorism Center, and Dr. Sergiy by the U.S. Department of Defense. video. He described how he applied transplanting, as well as with their beehive, dairy, 150,000 residents. Maksymenko, the country’s most re- Maharishi’s Brain-Based Approach and agro-forestry operations. nowned research scientist, both of Implemented in 22 countries and credited it with ending his nation’s Hawaii is also an ideal setting for studying sus- whom are leaders of the Global Union in Latin America 20 years of civil war and bringing peace tainability because the islands are geographically and enthusiastic about bringing the This Brain-Based Approach to Peace and prosperity. benefits of the Transcendental Medi- received strong support among the Father Gabriel Mejia of Colombia tation technique to Ukraine. conference participants, resulting in spoke via Skype about how teaching the unanimous adoption of a resolu- the Transcendental Meditation and LOW-RESIDENCY Brain-based approach to tion calling for its implementation. TM-Sidhi® programs to tens of thou- peace Heads of state and other top govern- sands of orphaned children in Bogota MFA in screenwriting begins Among the solutions discussed, ment leaders presented striking exam- created a “wave of peace” in Colombia there was widespread support for the ples of how this approach put an end that helped end 52 years of civil war. Students in the two-year program do cy, filmmaker David Lynch connected the Transcendental Meditation tech- “Brain-Based Approach to Peace” of- to decades of civil war and brought Thirty-eight separate news organi- their coursework online and come to via Skype for 45 minutes to answer nique in recent years has affected his fered by Dr. Hagelin, Fred Travis, Da- lasting societal peace and prosperity. zations covered the conference, includ- campus at the beginning of each se- questions from each student, and in- work. Along with his brother Bobby vid Orme-Johnson, Sandy Nidich, and In Latin America, 22 countries have ing eight national Ukrainian television mester for a 10-day residency. ternational script consultant Dara Farrelly, he is best known as the creator others. implemented this approach within the stations, 19 social-political news agen- Film director Peter Farrelly was Marks gave lectures on transforma- of such films as “There’s Something Dr. Travis described how stress public educational system and in the cies, and numerous international news on hand to give guest presentations tional narrative. About Mary,” “Dumb & Dumber,” shuts down the prefrontal cortex, the training of their armies and militias. agencies. during the students’ inaugural residen- The students learned the Transcen- “Shallow Hal,” “Hall Pass,” “Stuck on dental Meditation You,” and “Me, Myself & Irene,” among technique early in other successes. their residency, and In addition to the online lectures heard from Professor and residencies, the students also con- Fred Travis how it nect weekly with a mentor, as well as changes the brain and meeting online as a group once a week. fosters greater creativ- Workshops, in which they read and ity. comment on each other’s work, are Mr. Farrelly spoke also an important component. about his films and For more information, email drom- Dr. John Hagelin Film director Peter Farrelly with students about how learning [email protected].

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MUM Over 175 trees Low-cost Sustainable planted townhomes Thanks to grants of $5,000 and Living Center $10,000, and the efforts of volunteers, built in North over 175 trees were planted during the outperforms 2016–17 academic year. Locations in- Campus Village cluded the sloping land west of the Low-cost options for those interest- to begin another development of low- expectations Women’s Dome, areas around Crow ed in moving to Fairfield increased cost homes. Those interested can be Creek and the Punj Tennis Center, in the past year, with the addition of put on a waiting list. Email mbrett@ Because of its outstanding energy-sav- and along two of the main roads lead- over 20 Maharishi Vastu® townhomes vastupartners.com. ing performance, MUM’s Sustainable ing into campus: Badgett Drive and in North Campus Village and over 30 Other new housing opportunities in Living Center caught the attention of Zimmerman Boulevard. planned units that are in the process of the community include the renovated an organization called Getting to Net ing buildings they had encountered, Heating and cooling are supplemented The planting was guided by rep- being constructed. campus in Maharishi Vedic City that Zero, which keeps track of ultra-effi- especially given Iowa’s harsh climate. by geothermal tubing. The building resentatives from Trees Forever and Because of government grants and once housed over 1,100 Vedic pandits cient buildings and their energy usage. The year 2015 was the only one for feeds its excess electricity back into the organized by the Green Iowa Ameri- tax incentives, the price has typically and now provides affordable accom- According to their calculations, the which consistent data tracking was MUM grid for use by other buildings. Corps volunteers being hosted on been in the range of $100,000 for a modations for those who want to be a building’s net Energy Use Intensity available, but according to estimates, The Schwartz-Guich Sustainable campus. The varieties of trees planted 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom home that’s part of the Invincible America Assem- was -0.5 in 2015, indicating that the the building was even more efficient in Living Center, completed in 2012, in- included oak, linden, locust, catalpa, part of a duplex, to $127,500 for a bly. The two-bedroom cottages range building produced 5 percent more en- previous years, producing as much as cludes classrooms, offices, labs, and birch, lilacs, tulip trees, redbud, white 2-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom, two-story from $250 to $600 per month, plus ergy than it used. Net EUI is a measure 30 percent more energy than it used. a workshop. Other features include pines, London planetrees (a sycamore townhome in a triplex. utilities, while two-room suites with of energy use per square foot per year The building’s electricity comes earth block walls for thermal mass, hybrid), and disease-resistant elms. All of the 56 units in this new phase private bath and shared kitchen/laun- minus renewable energy production. from two sources: solar photovoltaic daylighting, and an exterior south wall In addition, MUM trustee Toby of development have been sold, with dry facilities are $360 per month, in- They said that the Sustainable Living panels and a wind turbine. The heating that’s a greenhouse for passive solar Lieb has spearheaded a major initia- the remaining units expected to be cluding utilities and free Internet. The Center is among the highest-perform- is provided by solar hot water heaters. heating. tive to improve the arched bridge area finished in the next year and a half. price for couples is $420 per month. as well as the immediate environment Because of the strong demand, the See https://sites.google.com/view/ surrounding the walkway that crosses developers now have tentative plans idealifeassembly. NEW CAMPUS CONSTRUCTION Crow Creek on central campus. Ex- tensive brush was removed, the creek was cleared of wood debris, trees were Renovation of buildings continues Construction of planted, and landscaping was done alongside the arched bridge, including On the heels of major renovation in Hildenbrand Hall, the main residence hall Younger Park perennials and bushes. The Japanese for women, and Verrill Hall, which houses classrooms and offices, work was done footbridge was also restored. this past academic year on the five “highrise” dormitories that accommodate men begins students, thanks to nearly $100,000 from donors. The renovations included painting The next step in the transformation of the exterior trim, repairing entryways campus began in the summer of 2017 to three of the buildings, and sandblast with the construction of an amphi- cleaning of the brick exterior on all five theater on the sloping land east of the buildings. Renovation of the lobbies Argiro Student Center that seats over included painting, new carpet, remod- 100 people. eling, and new furniture. The heating The Olson Family Amphitheater, and air conditioning systems were also funded by Peggy Olson and her late upgraded. husband Marty, includes tiered seat- These renovations have helped trans- ing made of brick, and a stage. Both fi- form the appearance and feeling of these ber optic cable and cable TV were also residence halls, while improving their installed. The amphitheater is the first energy efficiency and overall utility. The phase of the development of Younger next phase will involve renovation of Younger Park - Olson Family Amphitheater Park, which will eventually expand to student rooms. include additional features.

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U.S. CONGRESSMAN TIM RYAN’S COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS DELIGHTS RECORD GRADUATING CLASS

ongressman Tim Ryan (D-Ohio) is a man of courage. Courage to be open about his practice of meditation. Courage to invite his colleagues on Capitol Hill to Cparticipate in his twice-weekly “Quiet Time Caucus.” Courage to travel to Iowa to an unusual university and deliver the commencement address. And courage to unstintingly praise that university’s unique approach to education. Not surprisingly, a main theme of his address was courage. And it was an address that delighted and inspired the record 579 graduating students at the 2017 Maharishi Uni- versity of Management commencement.

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“We need Congressman Tim Ryan

leaders who are Congressman Ryan has been the U.S. Representative for Ohio’s 13th congressional district since established in 2003, having been reelected seven times. He previously served in the Ohio Senate. He is a leading voice for promoting college affordability, expanding renewable energy, and that underlying enhancing access to healthcare. His focus on health includes being an active proponent of the unity of life.” benefits of meditation. He has organized twice-weekly meditation sessions for staff and mem- bers of Congress, which he calls the “Quiet Time Caucus.” Congressman In addition, he is working to make integrative health techniques, including Transcendental Meditation, more accessible to all veterans through funding from the Veterans Administration. Tim Ryan Congressman Ryan’s published books include The Real Food Revolution: Healthy Eating, Green Groceries, and the Return of the American Family. He strongly promotes healthy food and agri- cultural practices. Congressman Ryan receives honory doctorate degree

Deep appreciation for dedicated to developing the full value we can best govern ourselves and our Those who transcend and grow in ap- tages and urging them to make a dif- lead us to the next Renaissance, for our mission of MUM of human consciousness, you are all world.” preciation of the underlying unity of ference. country and for the world. desperately needed in the global chal- Noting some of the challenges we existence. Congressman Ryan was clear “Many of the answers to the chal- “Graduates, lead – and take us on an Congressman Ryan began his talk by lenge to find a new path forward.” face on this planet, he addressed phys- about the special mission of MUM lenges we confront as a people run adventure.” expressing his deep appreciation for icist Stephen Hawking’s contention graduates: right through this great university in the mission of Maharishi University of The answer is within ourselves that establishing a colony on the moon “You are the modern day explorers. the magnificent cornfields of Iowa. A reflection of how times have Management. Throughout his address Congressman will allow life to thrive. Congressman Your meditation practice will assist you “Please don’t keep your talents to changed “Everywhere I travel I see the out- Ryan showed an understanding of the Ryan disagreed, saying the answer lies in navigating the turbulent waters of yourself. Congressman Ryan’s address was not reach of this great university: Tran- principle of transcending, and how im- within ourselves: modern society. “This country – and our world – only inspiring, it marked a sea change scendental Meditation – the medita- portant that experience is in the world “We don’t need powerful rocket en- “Your Consciousness-Based edu- need you to be an army of wisdom, in a leading official’s openness about tion you practice, the meditation you today. gines to make life better, we need pow- cation has prepared you to take your compassion, and connectedness show- meditation. In the past there were oc- research, the meditation you teach – is He spoke about the divisiveness in erful tools to unlock our own human place among those leaders who are re- ing the world how to be awake, to be casional rumors that some members of now being offered in big companies politics and was clear that we need to potential. And how do we advance all defining the rules and changing the way connected, and to be energized by the Congress were “closet meditators”: they and small family-owned businesses, go deep within ourselves to find the of humanity? The answer is not on the we all see things – and our nation and tremendous power that lies within. practiced the Transcendental Medita- hospitals and clinics, tough inner-city solution. Quoting Jim Wallis, the theo- moon, it’s in ourselves.” the world desperately need you now. “When John F. Kennedy wrote Pro- tion technique but didn’t tell anyone schools and military bases, in prisons logian and political activist, he said, “We have gathered here today to files in Courage, he celebrated stories of about it because they were afraid of be- and homeless shelters. “Don’t go further left, don’t go further The courage to lead society to honor and celebrate something both great political courage. But he knew the ing too far out of the mainstream. “It’s clear from the research that right: we all need to go deeper.” a new Renaissance modern and ancient – something as difference between studying something Times have changed. Today a mem- Transcendental Meditation is helping And he was clear that “in this depth Congressman Ryan compared soci- old as human life on earth: the ability and doing something. ber of Congress not only openly prac- to unlock the limitless potential of the we experience the underlying unity of ety today to the Dark Ages and spoke to access the silence, the unity, that lies “’The stories of past courage,’ Ken- tices meditation, but actively promotes human mind. It is an essential tool that life.” He went on to say how import- about a book by Edwin Friedman ti- deep within. And that silence, as you nedy wrote, ‘can teach, they can offer it, and deeply appreciates the value. We can immeasurably enrich our lives and ant it is to be established in that unity: tled A Failure of Nerve, in which Fried- well know, is a reservoir of unlimited hope, they can provide inspiration. But thank Congressman Ryan for his cour- help us take on intractable ills like prej- “We are living in a moment that calls man describes characteristics of Dark creativity, intelligence, energy, and hap- they cannot supply courage itself. For age and vision and for leading the way udice, violence and addiction. out for leaders who are wiser, smart- Ages and argues that it was the cour- piness. That’s your adventure, to live this, each man must look into his own toward a better world. “Your university is working to iden- er, and bigger than our problems. We age of the great navigators that helped your life from the deepest and best part soul.’ tify, implement, and bring to scale in- need leaders who are established in the Middle Ages break free. Their ad- of you – the quiet part. “Graduates, look into your own souls “We don’t need pow- novative knowledge and technologies that underlying unity of life, so that ventures led to new discoveries that “I challenge you: Do something with and find the courage to believe you can erful rocket engines that promise to completely restructure they can see that our differences and changed the worldview and inspired it.” make a difference, the courage to imag- the way we educate our young, heal our diversity – whether in language, cultur- people to “question the realities, the ine the world as it should be, and the to make life better, we A call to action sick, grow our food, and safeguard our al inflections, or political beliefs – are orthodoxies, and the set ways of the courage to take us forward where we need powerful tools to borders. our greatest strength. And this diver- world,” Ryan said – ultimately leading Congressman Ryan concluded with a need to go. “And that’s why I’m here today – to sity provides opportunity for competi- to the Renaissance. stirring call to action for the graduates, “Graduates of Maharishi University unlock our own hu- put out the call to you. As students tion – the competition of ideas, of how Who are the modern-day explorers? again recognizing their special advan- of Management, answer the call and man potential.”

12 | MAHARISHI UNIVERSITY OF MANAGEMENT UNIVERSITY REPORT 2016-2017 | 13 FEATURES Cleaning up waterways, A Dream job abandoned coal mines, and more… It is, she says, her dream job: helping communities thrive economically while at the same time improving their relationship with the environment. And she says her degree in sustainable living gave her an important foundation for this job Alumna through its emphasis on the connectivity between people and the planet. er dream began at a young age suring that the water cycle – the move- Cleaning up abandoned coal when, as a child, she read Ra- ment of water through land and air – mines Hchel Carson’s classic book Si- can function in a healthy way. lent Spring, which told the story of how During the course, her professor re- So what does Anna do to clean up an pesticides were killing birds. As an un- quired her to explore a watershed issue abandoned strip mine? She works with Anna Bruen dergraduate student at Maharishi Uni- related to her thesis, and her home- local soil and water conservation dis- versity of Management, she pursued town of Fairfield presented her with a tricts and the State of Iowa to write her dream by majoring in sustainable perfect opportunity. For years the city’s grant proposals for the cleanup. Once is making a difference in southeast Iowa living, where she learned how to work sewage system hadn’t been able to ac- the grant is funded, Pathfinders ad- with nature while also helping commu- commodate heavy rainfall, resulting ministers the grant, and works with the​ nities to develop. in overflows of raw sewage into Crow state and contractors to complete the An abandoned coal mine is a toxic mess, dangerous for both animals and hu- After graduating in 2008, she fo- Creek, which runs through campus restoration. So far 100 of 300 aban- mans. Iowa has 300 abandoned strip mines, and alumna Anna Bruen is play- cused on helping Fairfield become and borders the east side of Fairfield. doned strip coal mines in the state have more sustainable. As part of a grant Because of her growing reputation in been returned to a more natural state, ing an important role in reclaiming that land and restoring it to a natural state. from Alliant Energy and the Iowa Fairfield, and her solid academic back- with Pathfinders partnering on 40 of That’s just one of the many projects she’s focusing on as executive director of State University extension office, she ground, Anna was hired to facilitate those. Pathfinders Resource Conservation & Development, a Fairfield-based nonprofit was project coordinator on an energy the Crow Creek Watershed Assess- Reclaiming the land entails grading efficiency campaign that resulted in an ment. She wrote a final plan that would the large hills of waste rock and the organization that serves counties throughout southeast Iowa. 8.5% reduction in energy use in Fair- help the city map out future improve- deep gullies that result from digging field. Her many other activities includ- ment projects. “It was very fulfilling,” into the earth to extract coal. The soil ed helping to oversee the planting of a she says, having the opportunity to ap- and water on the entire site are highly community orchard, incorporating en- ply what she had been learning while at acidic due to the exposure to coal dust, ergy efficiency into a new house being the same time helping her hometown so reclamation also entails adding lime built by Habitat for Humanity, weath- deal with a serious problem. to the soil to reduce the acidity. After erizing homes, installing solar panels, She worked on the city’s application the project is done, the land can be and more. for a competitive loan program from used for wildlife habitat or light animal But she wanted to be able to contrib- the USDA, which awarded the city a grazing. ute in even more ways, and decided to nearly $25 million low-interest loan ​Anna explains that the mines they’re go for a dual master’s degree at Iowa to put in a new wastewater treatment working to reclaim were active before State University, graduating with an plant – a project that’s now underway. 1977 – before there were rules and reg- MS in sustainable agriculture and in ulations that require mining companies community and regional planning. Named executive director of to restore the landscape to the condi- Pathfinders tion it was in before it was mined. Helping Fairfield with When Anna graduated in 2014 with “The sites we reclaim are barren,” she watershed management her master’s degrees, she was immedi- said. “The topsoil – that rich, biologi- Toward the end of her degree program, ately hired by Pathfinders RC&D to, cally abundant, layer of soil that is good she took a course on watershed man- unsurprisingly, be their watershed co- for planting seeds in – is gone.” She agement. The issues are many. If cities ordinator and environmental planner. says it takes 100 to 500 years to rebuild and farmers are not careful, they can Due to her experience, education, pas- one inch of topsoil. dump pollutants into wherever runoff sion, and accomplishments, the Path- “Reclaiming a surface coal mine is water ends up, whether streams, ponds, finders’ board of directors named her like putting a Band-Aid on a scrape,” or lakes. Management also entails en- executive director in 2016. Anna says. “Except instead of the heal-

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Southeast Iowa abandoned coal mine land restored to a natural state “We focus on what the people living in the community want. We partner on what they want, and accomplish projects together.” – Anna Bruen

ing time being a couple of days or a into the stream, then identify oppor- such as what sorts of directional signs these communities. Anna explains that based services throughout Southeast her career at Pathfinders. She teaches week, the recovery period is deca​des.” tunities to improve the situation, and are needed and where they should be Pathfinders does NOT tell communi- Iowa, such as grant writing, project yoga classes, serves on the board of two After reclamation, sites are best left then specify the necessary steps for placed. The overall goal is to improve ties what they should be doing. Rather, development, strategic planning, event non-profit organizations, and in the untouched as much as possible. They that improvement. the quality of life for the residents. she emphasizes that it’s a collaboration, planning, and more. Their fees are low, past has volunteered with a range of are great areas for wildlife and polli- “I get excited and feel good when with Pathfinders staff participating in however, and their services mesh well groups, such as Carry On Bags, Girls nator habitat or lightly grazing cattle, Creating vibrant communities I see people enjoying the communi- the community and working with lo- with their broader interest in nurturing on the Run, The Lord’s Cupboard, which can help add organic matter. Pathfinders’ portfolio is actually much ties where they live, regardless of how cal individuals, businesses, community communities. Fairfield’s Go-Green Commission, and The State of Iowa works with land- broader than cleanup, however. Their much direct involvement Pathfinders groups, and government agencies. the Young Professionals of Fairfield. owners to help determine what seed mission is to “create vibrant communi- or myself had,” Anna says. “We’re really “We focus on what the people living Rotary Club award A current concern she has is senior mix to plant, based on what they envi- ties by strengthening local economies here to support what people living in in the community want,” she says. “We Anna’s passion for nurturing Fairfield citizen housing. The baby boom gen- sion for their land. “I get most excited and encouraging natural resource con- Iowa want for their communities and partner on what they want, and accom- was recognized in early 2017 when eration moved to Fairfield en masse when sites are planted to a native prai- servation.” Community development more often than not, it’s about increas- plish projects together. I appreciate the Rotary Club awarded her a $6,000 when in 1979 Maharishi invited prac- rie/pollinator mix,” Anna says. “There’s is an important part of their mission. ing people’s quality of life and access to that each community and organization scholarship to help pay back her stu- titioners of the Transcendental Med- a site right now in Southeast Iowa They envision helping to “create thriv- resources. So when business owners has a distinct identity. I try to enhance dent loans. The club had announced a itation and TM-Sidhi programs to that’s being reclaimed with a natural ing hubs of economic activity,” which can expand a product line because of that by focusing on their priorities and scholarship to be awarded to a recent join a large group doing their practice stream design and the landowner is will “provide a high quality of life for a loan from Pathfinders, or when peo- their economic activity, landscape, and college graduate who planned to make together to help foster peace in the going to be harvesting prairie seed and the residents.” ple feel empowered to ask questions ecology.” Fairfield his or her home. Anna qual- world. This has created a demographic planting it at the site.” As an example, Anna talks about an- about water quality because of a press ified, having finished her master’s de- bulge, so Anna worked with a commu- other of her favorite projects: the Iowa release we wrote, or when people learn From event planning to grees in 2014, so she applied. nity member to distribute and collect a Watershed management Scenic Byways. Iowa has many scenic something new about the region – like project development In awarding the scholarship to Anna, survey and found that there will be an The reclamation of an abandoned strip areas, and has designated certain high- the fact that there was coal mining or So what is Pathfinders RC&D? Re- Pat Hurley, the scholarship committee imminent need for more facilities for mine also includes watershed manage- ways that traverse these areas as “scenic that the Mormon Trail was through source Conservation & Development chairman, said, “One of the applicants senior citizens – a situation she hopes ment, since runoff either creates lifeless byways.” That helps drive tourism to this area – that’s exciting to me. It’s also Councils were established nationwide really stood out as embodying all the to help address. pools of acidic water, or drains highly these locales, fostering local economies. exciting when we organize something, by the U.S. Department of Agriculture qualities and values of Rotary, and that So what does the future hold? Anna toxic water into area streams. But the communities along the sce- like the Solar Energy Fairs we hosted in 1962, with each serving 5–8 coun- was Anna Bruen. It was very clear from looks forward to continuing to re- Watershed management projects, nic byways may not be prepared to last year, and people come from miles ties. Each operated as an incorporat- Anna’s essay that she is completely spond to the needs of communities as Anna has worked on in Fairfield take advantage of the greater attention. around to see and learn.” ed nonprofit. Fairfield launched their dedicating her life to serving her com- and organizations in the region – nat- and in conjunction with abandoned Pathfinders partners with the Iowa De- She also gives an example of writ- RC&D in 1978. Early on the USDA munity. Her primary goals are to help ural resource conservation, agriculture, coal mines, is a major offering of Path- partment of Transportation and with ing a watershed management plan for supported these nonprofits financially, the Fairfield community grow, to bring housing, community development, and finders. Iowa’s streams are some of the these communities to “build capacity.” a county park, a plan that’s now being but that ended in 2011. That means, people of different backgrounds to- quality of life. most polluted in the country, and com- They work with them to seize oppor- used to receive state and federal fund- Fairfield’s Pathfinders RC&D must gether, and to help others to live happy, “When I was in school I definite- munities are increasingly concerned – tunities such as holding events that ing to follow up on the strategies in the maintain a stream of income to sup- healthy, and prosperous lives.” ly had in mind that I wanted to lead as is the United States Environmental further draw tourists. And they pro- plan. “That’s fulfilling,” she says, eyes port their activities and pay the staff of projects that would benefit the envi- Protection Agency. Anna and her staff vide support to businesses, organiza- twinkling. four that works with Anna. A dedication to improving ronment and our human communities, will work with a community and state tions, museums, recreation centers, and Most of their funding comes from lives and here I am,” she says. agencies to determine where the water other attractions so they can bring in An emphasis on collaboration grants, donations, and financial sup- That certainly describes Anna, whose is draining to, such as a stream, then more visitors. This collaboration with But don’t use the word “help” when port from their six member counties. dedication to improving the lives of assess the quality of the water running the community even gets into details describing the role of Pathfinders in But they also offer a variety of fee- everyone in Fairfield goes far beyond

16 | MAHARISHI UNIVERSITY OF MANAGEMENT UNIVERSITY REPORT 2016-2017 | 17 FEATURES A NEW ERA...

Visionary new chair and vice- education.” He envisions a student who chair spur change develops a “vast interest in learning, a special inner alertness and deep con- MUM TRUSTEES Much of the credit goes to Jeffrey fidence that inspires a world of fresh Abramson and Tom Stanley, the board’s ideas, and a humane and socially con- chair and vice-chair for the past nine scious leader capable of building a safe years. and prosperous world.” PITCH IN ON ALL FACETS OF CAMPUS LIFE Mr. Abramson, a partner in The Tow- er Companies, an award-winning real The keys to making things happen ou might think of a board of trustees as men and women in estate development firm in the Wash- ington, DC area, simply had an expand- It’s a compelling vision, one that has business dress gathering in a boardroom several times a year to ed vision for the board. “Being a trustee motivated him to get the trustees deeply Jeffrey Abramson of MUM means you are responsible for involved. And he and Mr. Stanley knew review budgets and policies and give general direction. raising the donations to support growth, the two central keys to making things Y research, and scholarships; for assuring happen: organization and accountability. But that doesn’t describe MUM’s current board. They do so much that our students are getting the best They believed the trustees could best education; for providing financial over- apply their impressive talents and expe- more. They oversee renovation and construction, travel the country to sight; for renovating the campus and rience by working in committees related erecting new facilities and public spaces; to their areas of expertise. Currently the meet wealthy donors, provide funds for specialized faculty training and and for preserving the university for gen- 34 trustees are organized into 10 com- new buildings, develop fresh ideas to promote the university, and hatch erations.” mittees actively involved in every area His vision for MUM is to reach an en- of the university, with most serving on plans to power the campus with solar energy. rollment of 1,500 on-campus students multiple committees. Mr. Stanley helps by 2022. Beyond that, he wants those oversee these committees and coordi- students to be a “brilliant reflection of nates how they interact with the admin- Tom Stanley the benefits of Consciousness-BasedSM istration and faculty.

MUM trustees meet with senior administrators

18 | MAHARISHI UNIVERSITY OF MANAGEMENT UNIVERSITY REPORT 2016-2017 | 19 FEATURES

“Being a trustee of MUM means you are responsible for raising the donations to support growth, research, and scholarships; for assur- ing that our students are getting the best education; for providing financial oversight; for renovating the campus and erecting new fa- cilities and public spaces; and for preserving the university for gener-

Toby Lieb Doug Greenfield Ed Malloy Tom Factor Laura Wege ations.” – Board of Trustees Chairman Jeffrey Abramson

“A number of the trustees have be- special partnership.” in memory of the late trustee Charley some two dozen Maharishi Vastu Ed Malloy – of Fairfield since 2001, Ed has shown come inspired to take responsibility for Let’s take a look at some of the trust- Lieb, funded the Argiro Student Cen- homes and condominiums on campus, Meeting wealthy donors extraordinary leadership skills, and certain aspects of our university, and ees’ recent activities. ter garden and fountain and its ongo- plus office buildings and apartments. the Board of Trustees has benefited as work closely in supporting administra- ing maintenance. She has also been He also designed, funded, and oversaw A major board responsibility is rais- well.” tive and academic initiatives to improve Toby Lieb – Creating pleasing responsible for landscaping around the construction of MUM’s Golden ing donations to support university the campus and student satisfaction,” public spaces residence halls and other areas and Dome Market & Café, a successful en- growth, and perhaps no trustee has Tom Factor – Mr. Stanley said. “They work with their The trustees’ most visible activity for for upgrading the MUM community terprise for the university community. taken that more to heart than Fairfield Planning a solar array administrative counterparts to identify the past several years has been renova- garden, providing new planting box- More recently he has been a major Mayor Ed Malloy. The trustees are also focused on saving where the trustees can be most helpful tion and construction, thanks in large es, topsoil, gardening tools, and land- force behind renovating the student As head of the Institutional Ad- money. And what better way to save in their support. Our goal is continu- part to the members of the Student scaping. The benches and picnic tables dormitories. The women’s dorm, Hild- vancement committee, he has spear- money while creating an environmen- ous improvement.” Life and Sustainable Campus Devel- around campus are also thanks to her. enbrand Hall, has been completely ren- headed the university’s endowment tally friendly campus than installing a Mr. Abramson and Mr. Stanley have opment committees. Public spaces like these are an im- ovated, with funding provided by Mr. campaign, bringing in over $9 million large solar array to provide 40% of the also focused on accountability, to en- Toby Lieb, who co-chairs the Stu- portant part of “the new master plan Abramson. With Doug’s continued ef- in donations and pledges. This effort campus’s electricity needs? sure each committee is adding value. dent Life committee, has most recently to integrate new buildings within new fort to improve student life, work has has entailed many trips around the University President John Hage- Mr. Stanley regularly phones commit- overseen extensive landscaping around public spaces that connect students now been completed on the five men’s country and over 100 meetings and so- lin, during the 2017 commencement tee chairs, and he and Mr. Abramson Crow Creek, transforming tangles of and visitors to the richness of a vibrant dorms. This has entailed deep clean- licitations. ceremony, signed the Paris Climate speak at least twice a month to assess dead trees, vines, and brush into a love- campus life,” Mr. Abramson says. ing brick exteriors and repairing and “Ed has really been a driving force Initiative, pledging MUM would do progress. ly park. The work, funded through her painting the porches, trim details, and behind the endowment campaign,” says its part to become carbon neutral. “Tom is an incredible administra- family foundation, included renovating Doug Greenfield – Renovating entryways. Interior lobbies were reno- Nick Rosania, co-executive director of To this end, plans are underway tor, deeply dedicated to MUM and the arched Japanese footbridge that residence halls vated, adding new lighting, carpet, and Institutional Advancement. “He’s an to build a 1.5-megawatt solar ar- the Fairfield community and to the was slated to be torn down. One of the most active trustees in furniture. Upgrading of the heating ideal representative of the university, ray with an integrated 1-megawatt growth of our programs worldwide,” This was the latest of many previ- transforming the campus has been and air conditioning systems was a ma- committed to attracting the financial Tesla battery storage system capable Mr. Abramson said. “We have a very ous projects. Toby’s family foundation, developer Doug Greenfield. He’s built jor accomplishment for greater student support necessary for our continuing of providing energy day and night. comfort. growth. When he meets with donors, The project is headed by trustee Tom “Doug is totally hands-on,” said he presents his vision of the universi- Factor working with alumni Troy and Craig Pearson, vice president of aca- ty’s bright future. His business suc- Amy Van Beek’s Ideal Energy company demic affairs. “He’s very experienced in cess, professionalism, organizational and in coordination the MUM admin- construction and oversees the staff and skills, eloquence, and enthusiasm gives istration. contractors’ work.” donors confidence to increase their Fortunately, the university has just “Doug is bold – a dynamic force in support and leave a legacy. As mayor the place for solar arrays. Several years fundraising for renovations, as well as for every area of the university,” Mr. Abramson said. “He’s awesome – there’s nothing he won’t do.” The trustees’ campus work has gone beyond renovation. Working with MUM leaders they have created a new Creating pleasing public spaces: renovated arched Japanese footbridge. master plan that maps a path toward a further transformation.

20 | MAHARISHI UNIVERSITY OF MANAGEMENT UNIVERSITY REPORT 2016-2017 | 21 FEATURES ago, former trustee Ramani Ayer and team-based learning, renewable ener- the campus dining hall – showing that Louise Ayer donated the funds for gy, presentation media, academic ad- she and Chris are intent on nurturing The MUM Board of Trustees MUM to purchase 99 acres of land im- vising, and instructional design. Wege the body as well as the mind. Plus, the Jeffrey Abramson – board chair John Hagelin mediately west of campus. About half Foundation grants have also support- foundation, along with Mr. Abramson, Rogers Badgett Carolyn King of that is unbuildable – but perfectly ed faculty research on the Maharishi donated $112,000 to build the Larry Chroman – chair, Executive Committee Keith Levi situated for solar arrays. Each array will Effect, lean management, Maharishi 37.8-kilowatt solar array by the Men’s Bruce Currivan Toby Lieb – co-chair, Student Life Committee SM require about 5 acres, so there’s room to Vedic Science , sustainability curric- Dome. And the foundation has con- Diane Davis Ed Malloy – chair, Institutional Advancement Committee add more arrays over time. ula, and the effects of Maharishi Vastu tributed $300,000 to MUM’s endow- Jim Davis Ted McLaughlin Although the project is still in plan- architecture on a building’s inhabitants. ment fund over the past three years. Martin Davy Bevan Morris – chairman emeritus ning, Mr. Factor is just the person to Plus, grants have also supported facul- Michael Dillbeck – co-chair, Academic Committee Ravi Patel make it happen. A pioneer in wind ty giving presentations at national con- Spreading the word about MUM Susie Dillbeck – co-chair, Academic Committee Neil Paterson energy research and implementation, ferences and workshops on such topics Michael Dimick – chair, Finance Committee Eric Schwartz he has developed over 40 utility-scale as “The axiom of infinity, QFT, and Recruiting new students has also been Barbara Dreier Ram Shrivastava – chair, Expansion and Global Affairs wind farms in the U.S. for NextEra large cardinals,” “The effects of Ayurve- a major focus, with the trustees’ com- Tom Factor Committee Energy. da medicines on cardiovascular risk mittee on Marketing, Admissions, Josie Fauerso – chair, Compensation and Tom Stanley – board vice-chair, chair, Governance A local utility has expressed interest factors,” and “Maharishi Vedic Science and Public Relations headed by Rashi Evaluation Committee Committee in owning and operating a 1.5-MW and agriculture.” Glazer, former professor of market- Paul Gelderloos Keith Wallace – co-chair, Student Life Committee project on MUM land. In addition, In recent years, the Wege Founda- ing at the University of California – Rashi Glazer – Marketing, Admissions and Laura Wege Mr. Factor is structuring an investment tion has also donated over $100,000 Berkeley. Committee members work Public Relations Committee Maureen Wynne group to build a 1.5-MW project, to support interpersonal communica- with the faculty to learn about their Fred Gratzon Robert Wynne whose ownership would transfer to the tions and leadership skills training for programs and identify marketing strat- Doug Greenfield – chair, Sustainable Campus university once the investment is recov- students, staff, and faculty, as well as egies. Eric Schwartz (founder of Cam- Development Committee ered. The federal tax credits and depre- $17,000 to support training in incor- bridge Investment Research) and Mr. ciation allowance for solar, provided to porating learning communities into the Abramson worked with the Computer qualified investors, would allow inves- curriculum. Professionals program to help increase ing, such as the program in integrative and engagement. This includes open Guich Sustainable Living Center, as tors to recover their investment in just The benevolence of the Wege Foun- enrollment by over a third, primarily by medicine. forums in which they gather the ideas well as renovation of student dorms one to two years. An investor-funded dation, inspired by Laura Wege, has taking advantage of Facebook ads. The Providing background and concerns of community members. and Verrill Hall. Former trustee Stu- solar field will significantly lower the even extended to the purchase of marketing committee is now broaden- support art Zimmerman and the Zimmerman university’s utility bills. For informa- Maharishi Vedic Organic™ produce for ing their focus to include online learn- Past record of support family donated Utopia Park, which tion contact Tom Factor at tfactor@ While many of the trustees are con- Trustees and former trustees have long houses many faculty, staff, and stu- lisco.com. tributing in obvious and visible ways, been exceptionally generous in sup- dents. Mr. Zimmerman also funded Mr. Stanley says, others are less visible porting the university. The late trustee numerous projects on campus, includ- Laura Wege – Upgrading but no less important. He cites how Dr. Keene Dimick, a founding board ing the Recreation Center and campus faculty expertise closely trustee Michael Dimick and member, and his wife originally lent roads. Trustee Bruce Currivan funded Trustees also support academics, help- other members of the Finance commit- the money for the Fairfield campus. the 2015 repair of Golden Dome Way ing ensure high quality of instruction. tee – Eric Schwartz, Ted McLaughlin, Trustee Barbara Dreier and trustee that runs past the Men’s Dome. And Trustee Laura Wege, along with her Ed Malloy, and Robert Wynne – work Toby Lieb and her late husband Char- current trustee Fred Gratzon funded husband Chris, have helped faculty with MUM treasurer Michael Spivak. ley helped fund the university’s first the paving of Granville Avenue. stay on the leading edge of their dis- Trustees Susie and Michael Dillbeck Maharishi Vastu building, the Dreier ciplines by dedicating $120,000 from work with the faculty to develop their Building, named in honor of Ted and And more… the Wege Foundation to support facul- expertise in Consciousness-Based ed- Bobbi Dreier. Former trustee Vincent There is more, of course – extensive ty attending academic conferences and ucation. The Student Life committee Argiro and alumna Maggie Argiro committee meetings, meetings with professional development workshops. works with Amellia Hesse, dean of donated $2 million toward the Argiro students, faculty, administration, and As a former MUM student, Laura Student Life, and meets regularly with Student Center. Former trustee Joni the community at large, classroom vis- deeply appreciates the faculty’s efforts students, faculty, and residence assis- Kimberlin funded Dalby Hall in that its and lectures to students, walking the and their endless devotion to their dis- tants to ensure the students have high building and generously supported the campus, and advising specific academic ciplines. quality of life and experience. university’s endowment fund. Trustee departments. Dozens of faculty have taken ad- The trustees’ purview extends be- Ted McLaughlin and Barb McLaugh- Maharishi University of Manage- vantage of this new opportunity. They yond the university. They are actively lin funded the computer science build- ment is grateful to have dedicated have attended conferences and work- Rashi Glazer gives a presentation engaging the community of meditators ing. trustees devoted to creating the best shops on such topics as data analyt- on marketing while trustee Fred and sidhas in Fairfield and Maharishi In addition, current trustee Eric educational experience for our stu- ics, computer graphics, virtual reality, Gratzon looks on. Vedic City to strengthen relationships Schwartz helped fund the Schwartz- dents.

22 | MAHARISHI UNIVERSITY OF MANAGEMENT UNIVERSITY REPORT 2016-2017 | 23 FEATURES

Enrollment surges in online master’s programs in Maharishi AyurVeda and Maharishi Vedic Science MUM ONLINE Non-credit online courses also popular

f you’re a regular world traveler like Cathrine McIntosh, Dr. Paul Morehead someone inclined to walk across the Pyrenees as she makes a video for Idid recently, you might think you wouldn’t be able online students. to enroll in a master’s program, even though the idea appeals to you. Cathrine, however, opted for the online Over 100 enrolled A program for aspiring Transcendental Meditation technique MA in Maharishi Vedic Science, and it fit well into her health practitioners had benefitted her so much that she travels and busy professional life as head of legal in Many others are saying the same thing, knew it was something she wanted her the dispute resolution department at a major bank and enrollment has surged in the on- Count Roxanna Medeiros one who two children to have. So prior to her line master’s programs, especially the is satisfied. She’s been interested in third and final year in the program, in New Zealand. MS in Maharishi AyurVedaSM and In- Ayurveda for some 20 years and had the family moved to Fairfield, and her She was the online program’s first graduate in tegrative Medicine. In the fall of 2017, recently been practicing it at a spa in children, ages 5 and 12, enrolled in that program enrolled 50 new stu- Boulder, Colo- Maharishi School. June 2017. dents, and 11 new students enrolled in rado. But then Recorded lectures, live “It’s a wonderful program and a fantastic Maharishi Vedic Science, bringing the two Ayurve- total enrollment to over 100 in these dic doctors webinars, online forums way to learn,” she says. “I found it entirely two programs, which both take three (called vaidy- Clearly, the MUM Online master’s suited my lifestyle. It provided the years to complete. as) who she degrees are meeting a need. And the flexibility for me to focus on learning “We’re pleased to see interest picking had consulted format for delivering the instruction up in our online offerings,” said Rod and who had is proving to work well, though is con- during the week when the time was Eason, vice president of enrollment travelled with stantly being modified according to management and marketing. “Integra- Maharishi in student feedback, Vanessa says. right for me, while at the same time Roxanna Medeiros allowed me to continue to meet the tive medicine is becoming an import- earlier years Lectures are recorded, and students ant component in medical treatment, suggested she get more formal training can view them at their convenience. demands of a busy career.” and we expect to eventually have hun- – and recommended the online MS MUM Online, which has a small team Plus, it accommodated her travel to dreds enrolled in this program.” through Maharishi University of Man- of videographers, strives to make the These two master’s programsagement. lessons visually interesting and highly Europe, India, the U.S., and Australia launched in 2014 in response to de- That sounded perfect to her, since professional rather than simply pre- while she was a student. “Like for my mand. People around the world want- she could continue her work at the spa senting a talking head. career, during the time I was studying, ed the education that Maharishi Uni- while also deepening her knowledge of In addition, both the Maharishi Ve- versity of Management offers, but Maharishi AyurVeda and integrative dic Science and integrative medicine the flexibility of the online program often weren’t able to move to Fairfield medicine. She began the Transcen- programs offer live webinars: using meant that I was able to travel, live, or to study. dental Meditation technique about six state-of-the-art internet technology, “We want to satisfy all aspects of months before beginning the program the teacher appears live via internet Cathrine McIntosh is shown here on her walk to work in any country in the world while still being able to participate in the our market,” says Vanessa Haskins, the and had such amazing experiences that streaming, and students have the op- Cape Finisterre in Spain. She continued her studies department administrator for MUM it helped convince her to enroll. portunity to interact with the teacher, while traveling the world. online program.” Online. Two years on, she decided that the ask questions, and interact with each

24 | MAHARISHI UNIVERSITY OF MANAGEMENT UNIVERSITY REPORT 2016-2017 | 25 FEATURES other. Both programs also offer online tion teacher on She then explains what the symptoms forums in which the students can post Long Island, suggest and the approaches the person “It’s a wonderful program and a fantastic way to learn. I found it entirely suited my questions and messages and interact was looking for. might like to try, such as particular lifestyle. It provided the flexibility for me to focus on learning during the week when among themselves and with the teach- He was eager Ayurveda formulas. She then reminds er. to learn more clients that this is a natural, integrative the time was right for me, while at the same time allowed me to continue to meet the Since the integrative medicine ways to help health care program that restores bal- demands of a busy career.” program teaches the students to offer people, and for ance from a fundamental level. If they – Cathrine McIntosh, first graduate of the online MA in Maharishi Vedic Science health consultations that include years he re- are concerned about a disease, they Maharishi AyurVeda pulse assessment, searched vari- should always get the advice of their the curriculum requires they come to ous Ayurveda licensed health care practitioner. which entails writing a thesis. Other understanding of the scriptures that’s online for two months after the cours- Vince Glasser campus for five days each year for an training pro- Other students may not have specific courses offered include Enlightenment; personally inspiring and meaningful.” es conclude. intensive clinical session in which they grams. When he learned about MUM’s plans to become practitioners, but are Modern Science and Maharishi Vedic And student Angela Ungurianu The version of the MBA that’s of- give consultations to members of the online offering, he decided to go for it. simply eager to apply the knowledge in Science; Maharishi Vedic Science and views the course as being especially rel- fered on campus in the evening and on community and receive feedback on The other programs, he says, weren’t their own lives. And still other students Physics; Physiology, Consciousness, evant given the religious conflicts in the weekends – for those who are unable their consultations from the program’s as complete because they were missing come into the program already being and Veda; Principles of Maharishi world today, saying that the course “cre- to be full-time students – is also avail- clinical faculty. the crucial element of consciousness as credentialed medical professionals who Vedic Science; and Engaging Nature’s ates a basis for peace among religions. I able as an online degree. The classroom the most important aspect of Ayurve- want to expand their practice to in- Government. think this aspect is very important for lectures are live-streamed, and students Detecting imbalances in the da. clude integrative medicine. Vince says humankind in our time.” in time zones who can’t conveniently physiology “It’s been a major fulfillment of a life- his cohort includes doctors, massage Short online courses for tune in at that time can view them lat- While the integrative medicine pro- long desire to help people in every way therapists, yoga instructors, certified personal enrichment Creating a seamless learning er. So far, a small number of students gram exposes students to a broad spec- that I can think of,” he says. herbalists, and health coaches. In addition to the Maharishi Vedic Sci- experience have taken advantage of this offering, trum of natural healing modalities, the ence courses, MUM Online also offers MUM Online began offering enrich- and the first three graduated in 2016. focus is on Maharishi AyurVeda. Health consultants Non-credit courses open to more than 15 courses for personal en- ment courses in 2012, and then in In addition, the low-residency MFA “We learned how to look at the broad Vince is now in his third and final everyone richment. Unlike the master’s courses, 2014 expanded to offer the master’s in screenwriting is mostly taught on- spectrum of influences within and out- year in the Maharishi AyurVeda and While the MS in Maharishi AyurVe- which have specific start dates and a programs. “We want to give our audi- line, with students coming to campus side of an individual – every aspect of Integrative Medicine program and da and Integrative Medicine is open cohort of students, these courses can ence the best of Maharishi’s knowledge for 10 days at the beginning of each se- life that impacts our health, conscious- looks forward to becoming a certified only to degree-seeking students, in- be taken at any time. and deliver it in the best way possible,” mester for lectures and workshops. ness, physiology: our own nature, the Maharishi AyurVeda consultant dividual courses in the online MA in The price ranges from $49 to $300, Vanessa says. “For many years MUM The two professionals programs at laws of nature, our actions, emotions, along with his master’s degree when Maharishi Vedic Science are available with between 8 and 48 lessons per offerings weren’t online, but people the master’s level also have an online thoughts, and the near and far environ- he graduates, giving educational talks to anyone interested in being im- course. Topics range from Ayurvedic around the world wanted this knowl- component: the accounting MBA and ment,” says alumna Shellie Lackman. and consultations at Transcendental mersed in Maharishi’s knowledge. cooking and organic gardening to the edge – and they wanted it online. Our the Computer Professionals Program Meditation centers, spas, and health Courses such as the Bhagavad Gita, essence of Buddhism and the inner online students are a very diverse group (which enrolls 300–400 new students centers, as well as via Skype. Some Sanskrit, and Maharishi Self-Pulse state of yoga. In every case the first les- of people.” each year). In both of these programs, states, referred to as “health freedom assessment have been quite popu- son is free. Plus, the nine-lesson course Vanessa says the goal of MUM On- the students come to campus for the states,” allow Ayurveda practitioners to lar among those who simply want titled “Crafting a Life and Career with line is for students to be happy and ful- first two semesters, and then are placed give consultations on their own, while knowledge for fulfillment. Often there Purpose” is completely free. filled. “We want them to be happy with in paid practicum positions around the other states require practitioners to are 10–15 enrolled in a course in ad- There are no assignments or tests, their purchase, and with the technolo- country. During this two-year practi- work in conjunction with a licensed dition to those who are enrolled as and those who register have up to a gy used to access the courses. We want cum period they take their remaining physician. degree-seeking students. Those not year to view the course. to make it a seamless experience.” courses online. As a graduate, Shellie is now a certi- taking the course for credit follow the One of the more popular courses Information about the master’s pro- Finally, students at Maharishi In- fied Maharishi AyurVeda practitioner, same structure as the other students: has been Professor Evan Finkelstein’s grams and personal enrichment cours- vincibility Institute in South Africa Alumna Shellie Lackman and because she lives in Iowa she can streaming the online presentations course on Maharishi Vedic Science es offered by MUM Online can be enrolled in MUM’s undergraduate with Michael Lackman only practice under a licensed medical and participating in webinars and on- and world religions that explores found at www.mum.edu/mum-online. program in business also receive their “The program teaches students how professional. She sees clients in Fair- line forums. They do, however, have a the universal principles expressed in instruction via live streaming. to determine a person’s constitution in field, at the MUM Campus Clinic, un- longer period to finish the course. And Maharishi Vedic Science, Judaism, Other programs migrating In the days before electronic media, order to prescribe highly personalized der Dr. Jim Davis and with a vaidya. should they enjoy the courses so much Christianity, and Islam. online students convened in schools because wellness modalities. We’re exposed to A consultation entails asking clients that they decide to go for the master’s “Dr. Finklestein not only clarifies While the offerings from MUM On- that’s where the teachers and the books a multitude of case studies, which also questions and discussing their health degree, they can apply up to two cours- our understanding of the very deep- line have been a major focus, five other were. But now knowledge can be made shows us a wide variety of individual concerns and goals, as well as using es toward the degree. est level of Maharishi’s knowledge but MUM programs also have an online available worldwide. And Maharishi makeup and imbalances.” Maharishi AyurVeda pulse assessment All the courses offered in the MA in also reveals its universal expression in component. Plus, even the courses of- University of Management is making This curriculum is just what Vince to determine their body type and cur- Maharishi Vedic Science are open to the three major Western religions,” said fered locally by Continuing Education great strides toward reaching that wide Glasser, a Transcendental Medita- rent state of balance in their physiology. everyone, except the capstone project, Susi Haley. “It opens up a wholly new are often made available for viewing audience.

26 | MAHARISHI UNIVERSITY OF MANAGEMENT UNIVERSITY REPORT 2016-2017 | 27 ACHIEVEMENTS - FACULTY

Presentations Books and Journals

Dr Schneider gives addresses at Keith and Samantha Wallace publish Dina El Chammas-Gass details student . Faculty, alum book on gut health project in education journal Harvard Medical School and in Founding MUM president Keith Wal- Professor Dina El Chammas-Gass published an arti- present at world lace and Samantha Wallace have pub- cle in the Journal of Sustainability Education that showed lished a new book that’s the ultimate educators how project-based learning can not only help Milan, London, and New Delhi Ramayana guide to digestive health: Gut Crisis: students learn, but also can be of practical benefit to the How Diet, Probiotics, and Friendly Bac- community. Students in a sustainable living class assessed The unique of- enlivened through Yoga and Ayurveda. conference teria Help You Lose Weight and Heal storm water management along Crow Creek in order to fering of Maha- He also led the first-ever session Your Body and Mind. It explains that provide data for the city and make recommendations for rishi AyurVeda on the use of meditation to treat and Professor David Scharf and alumnus poor food choices and the overuse of solutions. is meriting in- prevent hypertension at the annu- Michael Sternfeld were invited to ad- antibiotics are the main factors that The students addressed a serious situation: storms that creasing na- al meeting of the European Society dress the World Ramayana Confer- cause imbalance in one’s gut, eventual- lead to raw sewage being discharged into Crow Creek. tional and in- for Hypertension in Milan, Italy. At ence in Jabalpur, India. The invitation ly leading to a chronic state of inflammation. The result is in They used a GPS unit and a standard assessment that ternational the Second International Congress in came as a result of their presentations an epidemic of obesity, diabetes, autoimmune disease, heart entailed gathering information such as water clarity, flow, attention, London he spoke about Conscious- at the biennial meeting of the World disease, and degenerative brain disorders. channel pattern, sediment deposits, and bank erosion. including presentations by Robert ness-Based approaches to contempo- Association for Vedic Studies that The authors present the most recent and effective treat- After analyzing the data, they came to some conclusions Schneider at events at Harvard Uni- rary health problems. MUM hosted two years ago. ment programs, including practical advice based on what and then conducted a survey of Fairfield locations to rate versity, the European Society of Hy- In addition, Dr. Schneider was in- Mr. Sternfeld spoke on “Ram’s the ancients have known for centuries: by healing one’s gut each according to how it was contributing to the problem. pertension in Milan, the International vited to deliver the keynote address Dharma: Leadership Secrets of the through diet, lifestyle, and simple procedures, one can heal “The solutions the students recommended will continue Ayurveda Congress in London, and at the annual meeting of the World Ultimate Warrior~Sage~Prince.” Dr. both body and mind. The book gives simple steps one can to serve as a long-range watershed plan,” said Fairfield the World Association of Vedic Stud- Association of Vedic Studies in New Scharf, a physicist and philosopher of take to begin to rest and repair one’s gut. Mayor Ed Malloy. ies in New Delhi, India. Delhi and to teach two public semi- physics, gave a talk entitled “Insights Dr. Schneider, dean of MUM’s nars. During his 10-day tour in India, into the Nature of Time as Expressed Dr. Maheshwari publishes books with Dr. Heaton publishes book chapters College of Integrative Medicine, was he also met with India’s Minister of in and Through the Ramayana.” He McGraw-Hill on big data invited to give a keynote address at Science and Technology, Harsh Vard- discussed the story of The Ramayana Dennis Heaton published two Harvard alongside India’s Minister of han, and the Minister of Ayurveda as both a temporal sequence – a sto- After noticing that two ebooks by Professor Anil Mahesh- book chapters that explore the Ayurveda and Yoga at a conference on and Yoga. The meetings focused on ry that unfolds through time – and an wari were top-sellers in the big data role of development of conscious- integrating Yoga and Ayurveda into a possible research collaboration eternal archetype that can be accessed category on Amazon, McGraw-Hill ness in management education and mainstream medicine. In his address, between Maharishi University of in its totality by any seer whose aware- contacted him about publishing print sustainability. His chapter “Con- he explained that there’s a healing in- Management and medical centers in ness is sufficiently refined. editions as part of their series on data sciousness-Development for Re- telligence within everyone that can be India and the U.S. science. Dr. Maheshwari’s book Data sponsible Management Education,” Analytics Made Accessible is a concise coauthored by student Emanuel and accessible overview of data ana- Schachinger, discussed the role of lytics and provides a tool set of the development of consciousness in Professor Khan gives plenary address on major data mining techniques and areas of management such as human rights, labor, the en- platforms. It has also now been pub- vironment, and anti-corruption. The chapter appears in lished in a Chinese edition by a top tech publisher in Taiwan. Educating for Responsible Management: Putting Theory into natural language computing His book Big Data Essentials covers big data tools such Practice, published by Greenleaf Publishing. Teaching computers to understand language – not just voice recognition, as a smartphone can as Hadoop, MapReduce, Spark Streaming, and NoSql. Be- In addition, Dr. Heaton authored a chapter in the book natural language was the topic of a do, but to correctly understand and answer any request spo- cause his books have become prominent in the field of big Spirituality and Sustainability: New Horizons and Exem- plenary address by Professor Em- ken in normal language, such as, “Send me the last set of data, he has been invited to give presentations at universities plary Approaches, published by Springer. Titled “High- dad Khan at the 17th International vacation pictures.” His key development, and the topic of such as James Madison University in Virginia, and his vid- er Consciousness for Sustainability-as-Flourishing,” his Conference on Artificial Intelligence, his presentation, is a “semantic engine” that uses a brain-like eos for promoting the books have earned thousands of likes chapter explains that to solve the problems that are af- Knowledge Engineering and Data Bases at the University approach. This semantic engine understands words in terms on Facebook. fecting the planet, it’s necessary to develop higher states of of Cambridge, UK. Since the 1990s Dr. Khan has been re- of their function. consciousness, states that lead to an optimal quality of life searching how to program computers to understand natural individually and collectively.

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Research Recognition

Studies show IA Assembly reduced homicides, violent crime, and more Andy Bargerstock and Ye Shi win Professor Three additionalduring this period. MOTOR VEHICLE published studies A second study, FATALITY RATE national accounting awards Gyan by Trustee Mi- published in ear- 2002–2010 chael Dillbeck and ly 2017, found that Professor Andy Bargerstock and PhD Emeritus Professor during this period student Ye Shi both received national Shrosbree Ken Cavanaugh there was a reduction recognition twice this past year. The found great ben- of 20.6% in the rate Institute of Management Accountants exhibits widely efits from group of US motor vehicle gave them an award in June for having Art faculty member Gyan Dr. Michael Dillbeck Dr. Ken Cavanaugh practice of the fatalities and a 13.5% the best article in the peer-reviewed Shrosbree is cementing her Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi programs in the reduction in the rate of all other accidental fatalities during journal Strategic Finance. The article reputation as an artist with Domes. These studies are on the effects of the Invincible the same experimental period. examined U.S. manufacturers that America Assembly during the period 2007–2010 when it The third study in the series, published in March, found continue to use standard costing even a half-dozen individual and had reached the Super Radiance number for the U.S. The that drug-related deaths fell by 30.4%. though they have adopted Toyota-style group shows around the first study, published in the spring of 2016, found a 21.2% The fourth study, also published in March, found a 28.4% process-improvement techniques. country. reduction in homicide and 18.5% reduction in violent crime reduction in the murder rate in 206 large U.S. urban areas. In August 2016 Dr. Bargerstock received the Excellence in Lean Accounting Professor of the Year for 2016 award, which is his second such recognition by the Two studies find Transcendental Meditation helps prisoners Lean Enterprise Institute, with the first coming in 2009. And in August Ye Shi Two studies led by Professor Sanford ing to prison) and a range of also received her second award as Lean Accounting Student of the Year, with the Nidich, director of MUM’s Center mental and physical health first coming in 2013. These national awards recognize excellence in developing for Social and Emotional Health, and maladies, including cardio- and researching the field of lean accounting. published in The Permanente Journal vascular disease. And a 2017 In addition, Dr. Bargerstock published a book with Business Expert Press that found that the Transcendental Med- study on female inmates in explains how to connect planning and implementation. Coauthored with Jahn itation technique helps prisoners deal Oregon again found a sig- Ballard and entitled Mastering Leadership Alignment: Linking Value Creation with with stress. A 2016 study on male in- nificant reduction in trauma Cash Flow, his book describes how to use value chain analysis, employee engage- mates at two Oregon prisons found symptoms. The latter study ment, and well-chosen financial metrics to connect business planning with imple- Dr. Sanford Nidich 47% reduction in trauma symptoms is the first to be focused spe- mentation. Her work, which is rooted in after four months of practicing Transcendental Meditation. cifically on female inmates painting but uses a wide variety of Trauma is associated with higher rates of recidivism (return- with high levels of trauma symptoms. materials, was exhibited at the Yel- Professor Jim low Door Gallery in Des Moines. Dr. Travis publishes studies on effects of meditation and Vedic recitation on the brain The exhibit included work by her father, Jim Shrosbree, and high- Professor Fred Travis dental Meditation practice: Focused attention or automatic Shrosbree receives lights their relationship as artists, Dr. Fred Travis continued to explore self-transcending?” colleagues, and family members. the effects of the Tran- Dr. Travis was a coauthor on a second study, published in prestigious art She also exhibited at Grapefruits scendental Meditation Cognitive Processing, that found that certain EEG patterns in Portland, Oregon, ArtStart in technique and Vedic were lower in Transcendental Meditation and higher during fellowship Rhinelander, Wisconsin, Western recitation on the brain, mind wandering, effectively distinguishing the practice from In November and December art professor Jim Shrosbree enjoyed a residency fel- Exhibitions in Chicago, Haus Col- publishing three stud- the common subjective experience of mind wandering, lowship at MacDowell Colony in Peterborough, NH – the oldest artist residency lective in San Antonio, Texas, and ies that give greater which is more caught up in internal experience than during in the U.S. Mr. Shrosbree’s stay was fully supported and afforded him the oppor- Ripon College in Ripon, Wiscon- insight into the nature of transcendence. A study on MUM transcending. tunity to spend five weeks creating art without interruptions. Artists from various sin. Ms. Shrosbree was also a res- students published in Brain and Cognition showed EEG In addition, a study led by Dr. Travis and published in disciplines – writers, visual artists, dancers, filmmakers, poets, and playwrights ident artist at the prestigious Two patterns of the Transcendental Meditation technique that Consciousness and Cognition found that listening to live Ve- – are awarded a fellowship to attend, the sole criterion being artistic excellence. Coats of Paint in New York. Her distinguish it from other approaches to meditation and that dic recitation by pandits is not only typically associated with This is the third residency of its kind that Mr. Shrosbree has been awarded in residency was supported by a grant validate the assertion that it’s an effortless practice. The study experiences of deep inner silence, but also is associated with the last four years. His previous two were at Yaddo Artists Colony in Saratoga from the Wege Foundation. was titled “Default mode network activation and Transcen- coherent brain wave patterns. Springs, NY.

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Cinematic Arts Teaching, Business, Computer Science

Student films win major awards Student accepted by “Teach for America” in Hawaii

Student Chas Zachar was among the nering graduate program and will earn 10% of applicants accepted into Teach a master’s degree in education. He said for America for 2017, a national pro- that it’s also competitive to get placed gram that recruits teachers to work in Hawaii. in underserved areas. Starting the fall “Having MUM on my resume of 2017 he is co-teaching high school makes me stand out,” he said. “There’s classes in science, math, and English been a movement toward different on the Big Island of Hawaii, with a ways of educating. The core principles special focus on supporting students of Consciousness-Based education are with mild to moderate learning dis- becoming more mainstream and ac- abilities. He is also enrolled in a part- cepted.” MBA students finish in top 1% in Computer worldwide business simulation student intern In February 2017 a team of MBA The teams act as executives who accounting students finished in the plan strategies and implement tactics wins Amazon Award-winning students Johnny Coffeen, Monica Demes, and Gregor Kresal 99th percentile in the CAPSIM on- across eight years of business activi- line business simulation that included ties. Also, in July 2017 an MUM team award Films by students in the David Lynch In addition, a short film about a tival in Rome, and best film and best over 1,100 master’s-degree-level teams finished in the 92nd percentile. Since MUM intern Graduate School of Cinematic Arts mountain climber by student Gregor director from Boca do Inferno at a fes- worldwide, including teams from Indi- 2011, MBA accounting students have student Ama- won a number of major awards this Kresal won four awards at the 2017 tival in São Paulo, Brazil. ana University, Kansas State, Temple consistently finished in the top 10th rbayar (Amar) past year. Johnny Coffeen, a 2015 Annual Iowa Motion Picture Awards, In addition, 2016 graduate Agnes University, University of Georgia, and percentile, including three first-place Amarsanaa, graduate, won a 2016 Student Acad- including the top award for cinematog- Baginska California State. finishes. who has been emy Award for his thesis film “The raphy and three Awards of Achieve- screened working for Swan Girl.” His 15-minute film was ment for editing, soundtrack, and her 30-min- Amazon as part one of 17 selected for the competition long-form live-action entertainment. ute movie of his curric- out of 1,749 films submitted from 381 Mr. Kresal’s film has also won a host “Last Tree ular practical colleges and universities around the of other awards at international film S t a n d i n g ” training in the world. It can be viewed at http://wel- festivals. at the 2017 Computer Pro- cometotwinpeaks.com/movies/the- Monica Demes, who graduated in Cannes Film fessionals program, was named “Asso- swan-girl-johnny-coffeen/ 2015, has been winning awards and Festival in ciate of the Month” in recognition of Because of this success, he was in- gaining attention at international festi- France. Her his contribution to, and impact on, one vited to assist at the 2017 Academy vals for her student film “Lilith’s Awak- film was part of the software development engineer Agnes Baginska Awards ceremony, bringing Oscars ening.” Having first won awards in the of the Short teams he was supporting. He is part onto the stage and handing them to Iowa Motion Picture Association for Film Corner, which features short of the Amazon Fulfillment Technolo- the presenters, and escorting award best director, best actress, and best cin- films with artistic values. “Last Tree gies DevOps (development operations) recipients off the stage. Those he es- ematography, her modern-day vampire Standing” is a fairy tale set against a team and also earned a significant pro- corted included Jason Bateman, Leon- film was selected for the prestigious dystopian backdrop that follows the motion. The recognition comes as a re- ardo DiCaprio, Kate McKinnon, Sal- Ourense International Film Festival story of a young girl named Lexie who sult of his reducing his team’s operating ma Hayek, Meryl Streep, Ben Affleck, in Spain. Other awards include best befriends a magical creature who is issues by 86%. Rahul Kedia, Sushil Aryal, and Ankhbayar Sukhmaa Matt Damon, and many more. director from the Optical Theatre Fes- half-man, half-tree.

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Management, Mediation, Athletics Knowledge Fair

Student presents on “Lean Student research on value of exercise presented at Process” at Chicago conference Knowledge Fair MBA student Latha Lakshmanan presented a paper at the 2017 MBAA gained. They demonstrate this knowl- ceived $100. Sarah discussed the role International conference in Chicago on her experience applying tech- Benefits of aerobic activity edge through a PowerPoint presenta- that music plays in the universe and in niques of business process improvement to the work-study program in and meditation tion and a discussion during which the her life. She told about singing as an the MUM financial aid office. She and classmate Eric Salisbury applied Jordan Wallace student responds to questions from an infant even before she was able to talk principles of lean management to create greater efficiency. This entailed was curious. external panel of judges. The quality of and then went deeply into Maharishi’s a multi-step approach of observation, mapping process flow, identifying She knew that presentations has been extremely high comments on music and Vedic melo- waste, determining ways to measure the efficiency of the process, and the Transcen- in recent years. dies. And she played an audio of a song creating a new map of the process that focuses on the value to the cus- dental Medita- she had recently recorded. tomers – who in this case are the students receiving financial aid. tion technique Insights from art and music was associated Winning first place this year, and $300, Affordable Vastu homes with coherent Jordan Wallace was art student Lennen Sanchez. His Almar, a business student, presented Alpha1 brain waves, but she wondered presentation reflected the relation- his business plan related to develop- Students place in national MUM running club wins whether exercise might somehow en- ship between himself, his artistic pro- ing small, affordable Maharishi Vastu hance that effect. So during her course cess, and being a practitioner of the homes that are “net-zero,” meaning that mediation tourney Ottumwa race on EEG with Professor Fred Travis TM-Sidhi program. He described the they use renewable energy sources to she did a two-week study – and won alignment of his understanding and produce as much energy as they con- After a second-place finish in a regional mediation tourna- For the seventh time, members of the MUM running club won second place and $200 when she pre- exploration of the absolute/transcen- sume. He gave extensive detail on the ment on campus, a team of MUM students traveled to a the timed-team competition at Ottumwa’s annual 5-kilometer sented her research at MUM’s annual dental field and how that has an effect housing market and the need for more national tournament in Arlington, Texas, where they were Komen Race for the Cure. The overall timed-team compe- Knowledge Fair. on his creativity. And he described how housing in Fairfield, showing how his one of only four teams to qualify for the semi-finals in both tition consists of the cumulative time of a team’s top five Her study was small, but intriguing. it illuminates the two necessary ques- proposed development would meet the mediator category and the advocate/client category. runners, with the MUM team finishing with a time of 1:55 She had six subjects, three of whom tions that pull him forward: What else that need. During the discussion, one The team of Tal Ron (from Israel), Mirah Dumasia (from – over 25 minutes faster than second-place Ottumwa Com- participated in regular aerobic physi- needs to be explored? And, what hap- of Fairfield’s most prominent devel- New Zealand), and Almar Meijles (from the Netherlands) munity Schools, which had a time of 2:21. In addition, the cal activity and three who didn’t. The pens next? opers indicated an interest in working took seventh place in both categories at the National Un- club also won seven first-place age-group awards, one sec- results showed a visible increase in Sharing third place were Sarah Dre- with Almar, as did Fairfield Mayor Ed dergraduate Mock Mediation tournament sponsored by the ond-place age-group award, and six third-place age-group coherence in the athletic group. The ben and Almar Meijles, who each re- Malloy. International Academy of Dispute Resolution. MUM was awards. Those who helped the team win the timed team study also suggested that the athletes by far the smallest school in the tournament, competing in award were Vinodthan Nayagar, Peter Mannisi, Mahmood simply had more neurons participating the semi-finals against much larger universities, such as the Al-Shameri, Nahom Abegaze, and Vanan Nayagar. in the Alpha1 coherence. University of Texas. All of the subjects practiced both the Transcendental Meditation and TM- Sidhi programs. Jordan concluded that the combination of aerobic activity and practice of the Transcendental Medita- tion and TM-Sidhi program increases the potential of coherence and holistic brain functioning during activity. Each year, graduating students have the opportunity to present a fi- nal project and win a cash prize in the Knowledge Fair competition, which celebrates the knowledge, creativi- Almar Meijles concludes his presentation while Lennen Sanchez, Sarah Dreben, Tal Ron, Mirah Dumasia, and Almar Meijles ty, and reasoning skills students have and Jordan Wallace applaud.

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“I was honored to present to them and Pranav Chhalliyil meet them. I was able to get a lot of in- ternship opportunities and help for my School team earns first place at business. I also stood on stage in front of these 16,000 leaders for the keynote WINS TOP AWARD address.” World Creativity Alternative methods to avoid at International BioGENEius Challenge dental plaque Competition Pranav’s oral hygiene research found harismatic. That’s that the simple Ayurvedic method of A team of Maharishi School students showed their extraordinary creativi- how the president of rubbing one’s teeth and gums with a ty by winning a first-place award at the Destination Imagination Global Fi- finger and swishing water after every nals in Knoxville, Tennessee. Competing against 80 other teams, all of whom CJohnson & Johnson meal, drink, or snacks is a practical had qualified by winning at the state level, the team of Philip Winer, Drew and the president of the way to prevent formation of the den- Schoenfeld, Caleb Mullenneaux, Loreena Hansen, and Alista Wikle per- Biotechnology Institute tal biofilm that later matures as plaque formed a musical they wrote that won not only first place but also a coveted described Maharishi School and causes inflammation and disease. Da Vinci Award for exceptional creativity. sophomore Pranav Chhalliyil. He used next-generation DNA se- The 1,400 teams from 15 countries assembled at Knoxville competed in quencing technology to see the entire various age-level categories, and in one of six theme categories, ranging from It’s fair to say they were impressed with oral microbiome in saliva, plaque, and building a machine to putting on an 8-minute play. The Maharishi School this young scientist who is doing origi- tongue scrapes of 75 subjects. team competed in the senior division in the fine arts category, in which they nal research on oral hygiene. His study also found that brushing were challenged to present a story about how the disappearance of a color What was the occasion? It was the with nano charcoal is effective for den- changes the world. They came up with their own angle on the challenge, cre- 2017 BioGENEius Challenge in San tal hygiene because the nano pores ad- ating a play about the disappearance of communism (long associated with the Diego, an international competition sorb many molecules that are needed color red). that included the top 15 students from to form biofilm. He found that com- Part of the play takes place in a communist setting, and part in a social the U.S., Canada, and Germany. Pra- mercial toothpaste is less effective in Darwinist setting. They built a set on wheels that could be rotated between a nav qualified for the competition (all this regard and that his nano charcoal plain communist background and a cityscape capitalist background. The play expenses paid) by winning the BioGE- toothpaste doesn’t cause dental abra- addressed the excesses of each system in a lighthearted way without making a NEius Challenge earlier in the year at sion like some hard toothbrushes and clear political statement. the State Science and Technology Fair toothpastes on the market. The creativity exhibited in the concept and staging took their performance of Iowa. Pranav’s success at the state science to a high level, but then to also make it into a musical put it over the top. fair also qualified him for an all-ex- At the substate competition, they simply had a 30-second musical interlude, Explains oral hygiene research penses-paid trip to Los Angeles in which the audience really liked. So at the state competition, they did three in 60 seconds May for the 2017 Intel International of their eight minutes via musical performance, and again the audience liked At the international level, the BioGE- Science and Engineering Fair, which that. In the weeks leading up to the global competition, they made the entire NEius Challenge included the Gene answered all their questions and was savvy and the ability to effectively com- drew 1,880 students from 87 coun- performance a musical – and ended up with a winning performance the au- Pool competition, their version of able to connect to the common man, municate research value, both of which tries. Competing against 90 other proj- dience loved. the hit TV show “Shark Tank.” It’s a to take my project to an entrepreneur- are crucial in the biotechnology indus- ects, Pranav was awarded third place in Their performance can be view online at goo.gl/MyHrkL. “fast pitch” format during which these ial level, and to convince them that my try. the Microbiology category. next-generation scientists have just 60 product is equal to the top oral cleaning Pranav also did well in the other part Pranav’s continuing success has been seconds to explain to the judges and brands, like Colgate and Pepsodent.” of the competition: the Global Health extraordinary. He was grand champion audience who they are, the problem The judges described him as charis- Care Challenge, a poster presentation. of the junior division at the state sci- their research solves, and why the rest matic and presented him with the top He was the national winner and an in- ence fair as an 8th grader, grand cham- of the world should care. award in Gene Pool. ternational finalist. pion of the senior division as a 9th Pranav’s pitch was judged to be one Gene Pool encourages students to “The BioGENEius Challenge was grader, and honorable mention grand of the top three, qualifying him for the seize opportunities for getting their re- an amazing experience for me,” Pranav champion this year as a 10th grader. final round of judging. This time the search story in front of audiences – from said. “I enjoyed sharing my project and A promotional video for the BioGE- format was a two-minute presentation peers to parents, strategic partners to also making good friends and contacts.” NEius Challenge that includes photos along with a question-and-answer ses- investors – and using their communi- The BioGENEius Challenge is a part of Pranav can be found online at goo. sion. It was during this round that Pra- cation skills to highlight the true value of the Bio Convention, which brings gl/D4ZRd5. nav’s charisma impressed the judges. “I of their research. It requires business together 16,000 biotechnology leaders.

36 | MAHARISHI UNIVERSITY OF MANAGEMENT UNIVERSITY REPORT 2016-2017 | 37 ACHIEVEMENTS - MAHARISHI SCHOOL Kai Vessey earns second Shristi Sharma wins honors place at state tennis at Eastern Iowa Science and tourney Engineering Fair Middle School student She tested the program with passwords of each length (20 The Maharishi School tennis team enjoyed a Shristi Sharma won big times each) and recorded the time it took for the program to successful season, winning the singles, dou- at the 2017 Eastern Iowa guess the password. As the digits of the password increased, bles, and team titles in the district compe- Science and Engineering the time for the program to guess it increased as well. She Fair with her project, How concluded that using passwords with a minimum of eight tition and sending their top singles play- Easily Can Your Password digits improves cyber safety. er and doubles team to state. Kai Vessey Be Hacked? Her research Her project garnered a Class One Award for Junior Physi- made it to the final of the state singles began with an interest in internet safety and security, and cal Science, as well as a Broadcom MASTERS Outstanding focused on how much a password’s length affects the se- Achievement Award. tournament, defeating the #1 seeded curity of online accounts. She hypothesized that with ev- The Broadcom MASTERS (Math, Applied Science, player in his semifinal match. In the final, ery numerical digit added, the time for a program that was Technology, Engineering Rising Stars) Program is the pre- guessing every single possible combination would increase mier science and engineering competition for middle school he lost to a foreign exchange student exponentially. students, and designates her entry as among the top 10% of from the Czech Republic. Competing She then wrote a program in Python that used the brute middle school science fair projects in the U.S. in doubles at the state tournament force method to guess numerical passwords of 1–10 digits. were Daniel Zhu and Devan Burke. Rocket team finishes fourth in nation The Maharishi School rocketry team finished fourth in the nation in this year’s Team America Rocketry Challenge, sponsored by Raytheon, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and others. Over 800 teams entered the competition. Their task was to design, build, and launch a rocket to go exactly 775 feet high and land in 41–43 seconds, with a payload of a raw egg intact. In spring 2017, the Maharishi School team’s two qual- ifying flight scores earned them an opportunity to enter the national finals with the top 101 teams held in May in The Plains, VA. After a congressional reception on May 12, meeting a former astronaut, and seeing some Washington, DC, sites, the team got down to work. The launch results out of the 24 competitors. The combined scores for both would determine whether they made the cut of 24 finalists flights earned them fourth place overall and $10,000 in col- for the afternoon launches. Their rocket came within 12 feet lege scholarships, $1,000 for Maharishi School, and invi- of the target height and their landing time was almost per- tations to the 2018 NASA Student Launch at Huntsville, fect. They were on to the final 24 fly-off round. Alabama, where the competition target is 5,280 feet with a Despite choosing to delay their second launch three times, scientific payload. when they finally ignited their rocket, it responded with an Team members were Bridgit Bianco, Miles Falk, Wayne even better score than their first launch and was third best Li, and Karthik Vempati, led by teacher Rick Rudloff.

38 | MAHARISHI UNIVERSITY OF MANAGEMENT UNIVERSITY REPORT 2016-2017 | 39 PLANNED GIVING

BEQUEST IN A WILL BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP: LEGACY GIVING A gift through a will is the most common source of legacy • Personalized communications from the university’s giving. A bequest can be a dollar amount or a percentage of president Help the university that helps so many your estate, or a gift of specific assets such as a residence, • Invitation to the annual Legacy Society Recognition other real estate, a vehicle, artwork, or a coin collection. A event bequest could also be made from the remains of your estate • Your name listed on the Legacy Society Donor Wall or over 40 years, Maharishi University of Management has been blessed and after all gifts have been made to your heirs. and in the annual University Report (both are op- sustained by the extraordinary generosity of our supporters – those who un- tional, per your wish) A FEW TYPES OF LEGACY GIFTS: • Opportunities to join knowledge events of interest – derstand and appreciate Maharishi’s vision and have committed to nurturing in-person or online – hosted by MUM F • Gifts of stocks and bonds • A personal Legacy Society memento it across the years. As a direct result, our flagship institution has become a proud • Gifts of real estate lighthouse of knowledge and coherence for the world. • Gifts of retirement assets (e.g., IRA) Organize your plan Many of us are now in a position to give back even more and play a key role in • Gifts of cash helping assure a foundational stability that will keep MUM strong and viable for • Gifts of insurance ACTION ITEMS – WHAT YOU CAN DO NOW many, many years to come. CREATE A LEGACY THAT WILL HELP FURTHER OUR • The MUM Development Office stands ready to as- MISSION sist you in preparing your legacy gift. Please reach out to us at your convenience and we will be happy to Why make a legacy gift? The time to explore these matters is now When you make a gift to fund a charitable gift annuity or a work closely with you. In preparation, consider these Legacy gifts are essential to the perpetuity of educational Legacy giving can also offer financial benefits: charitable remainder unitrust, the benefits during your life- helpful resources: institutions such as MUM. Gifts can be made in several time include lifetime payments and tax savings. After you • Visit mum.giftlegacy.com where you’ll find detailed ways – through a bequest in a will, a charitable trust, life • In many cases, heirs receive significant savings in es- have received all payments, what remains goes to benefit the information on legacy giving and a will-planning tool insurance, annuities, or retirement plans. tate taxes students and MUM. • Read our free guide, Planning Your Legacy, for help In making your legacy gift, you will be ensuring that • Your gift costs nothing during your lifetime in thinking through your legacy goals and organizing scholarships will continue to flow to worthy students. You’ll • Some “future gifts” can be revocable and can be Support the university as a member of the the required information an estate planning attorney be helping MUM attract and retain the best faculty while changed at any time Legacy Society will need to create your will or trust plan providing the future with dynamic thinkers and leaders • There’s no need to release any assets now (as long as • Ask us for sample language your attorney can use in who will drive the causes you care most about, all of which it is not an annuity, life insurance, etc.) The Maharishi University of Management Legacy Society drafting your bequest depend upon maximizing human potential. Further, your was founded in 1994 to recognize and honor individuals • Contact us for support on your legacy decisions gift will support Consciousness-Based educational princi- Many options for helping who have made a charitable gift to MUM in their will or ples and methodologies, keep the physical campus vibrant, The following sections illustrate the many ways you can estate plan. The Society is open to everyone who has named If you’ve already included a gift to MUM in your estate plan, and preserve the knowledge of enlightenment that MUM’s plan your gift. In-depth information is available at mum. MUM in his or her long-term plans or created an endow- please let us know, so that we can include you as a member founder brought to the world. giftlegacy.com or by contacting the MUM Development ment for its benefit. in the Legacy Society (or respect your wish for anonymity). Office.

We look forward to helping you create a plan that addresses your personal needs and goals. We are honored to help you create your legacy!

This information is not intended as tax, legal, or finan- cial advice. Consult your personal financial advisor for information specific to your situation. Copyright © 2018 56 | MAHARISHI UNIVERSITY OF MANAGEMENT Crescendo Interactive, Inc.UNIVERSITY Used by permission. REPORT 2016-2017 | 57 PLANNED GIVING Professional Advisory Committee Professional Advisory Committee Members professional advisory committee has been created to support MUM’s Legacy Giving David A. Ponder, PAC Chairman, is a 33- He worked for Merrill Lynch as a floor trader on the Coffee, year member of the American Society of Sugar, and Cocoa Exchange. He was also an Independent Campaign. This newly established committee is composed of trust officers, attorneys, Pension Professionals and Actuaries and Trader on the Minneapolis Grain Exchange trading wheat fu- accountants, financial planners, life insurance professionals, commercial and residential maintains the professional designation of tures, and traded same as an Exchange Member on the Kansas A Qualified Pension Administrator. His ex- City Board of Trade. real estate brokers, and others who specialize in estate planning. They are volunteering their ser- vices to guide the Legacy Giving Campaign and will also serve as resources for potential donors perience includes 14 years as a Regional Pension Manager for Transamerica and Charles Fritsch, Maharishi University of and their advisors. PAC members will: another 5 years as the Regional Sales Director for New York Management, BA; Certified Hotel Broker, Life Investment Management LLC. Mr. Ponder founded the licensed in New York, Virginia, West Vir- • Strengthen relationships between MUM and estate • Educate people about the win-win nature of Ponder Financial Group in 2001 and has achieved the Top ginia, and Pennsylvania with 22 years of planners, wealth advisors, attorneys, and other legacy gifts of the Table designation with Million Dollar Round Table, experience in commercial real estate devel- relevant professionals • Advise MUM’s Development Office about the Premier Association of Financial Professionals, and is a opment, management, financing, and bro- • Consult with prospective Legacy Society members opportunities for soliciting potential donors member of the President’s Council with New York Life. Mr. kerage. Mr. Fritsch has served as president on issues within their expertise • Function as a sounding board for creation and Ponder was one of the first to arrive at MIU in 1974 after and founder of MBA Hotel Brokers since its incorporation • Work with MUM Development Officers on revision of MUM Development policies graduating from the University of Delaware (BA Biology with in 1997, and president and founder of MBA Capital Fund- Math minor). He worked as a research assistant to Dr. Keith ing, Inc., incorporated in 2004. He is the president of Hotel strategies to meet donors’ goals and objectives • Assist in marketing strategies Wallace and Dr. David Orme-Johnson. He became a teach- Investor Apps LLC – a software suite for hotel investors and er of Transcendental Meditation in 1975 and managed the operators, designed to save money and time while providing World Plan Center in Dover, Delaware, where he instructed actionable analysis to drive greater profitability. 247 people. He returned to MIU after completing the Exec- utive Governor program to become a graduate student and Leonard A. Goldman, University of Cal- co-taught undergraduates until 1978 when he left to start his ifornia, Berkeley, BA; London School of family and career. Economics and Political Science, Interna- tional Relations, M.Sc.; New York Univer- Vicki Alexander Herriott, PAC Vice sity School of Law, J.D.; advises on business Chairperson; Wellesley College, BA; Bos- formation issues, joint ventures, contracts, ton University School of Law, J.D.; New intellectual property licensing and protec- York University School of Law, LL.M. Tax tion, private equity funding, asset acquisitions, preventative Law; founding director of MUM Planned counseling, and entity governance. He focuses primarily on Giving since the 1990s. Professor Herri- advising private corporations, limited liability companies, en- ott has served MUM as Associate Dean trepreneurs, and non-profit institutions. Member of the New of Faculty, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, and York, California, and Hawaii bars. The success of Maharishi University of Management will Chairperson of the Department of Student Life; she currently be measured by its direct and indirect effects on the qual- chairs MUM’s Department of Business Administration and Steven Grill, Boston University, BA; New ity of life everywhere. We will count ourselves successful coaches award-winning mediation teams. She is on the Board York University, M.S.; currently focuses on only when the problems of today’s world are substantially of Directors of the Institute for Bio-Integrity, and the Board asset management as Managing Director reduced and eventually eliminated and the educational in- of Directors of the International Foundation for Conscious- and Client Advisor at Alex. Brown, a divi- ness-Based Education. sion of Raymond James. Mr. Grill served stitutions of every country are capable of producing fully as managing director and client advisor at developed citizens. – Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, from the Matthew Frank, Maharishi University of Deutsche Bank and senior vice president original MIU catalog, 1974/1975 Management, BA; College for Financial at Morgan Stanley. He was managing partner of SCM Cap- Planning, CRPC; Mr. Frank has been a ital Advisors LLC, where he consulted with family offices on private wealth advisor for Ameriprise Fi- investment strategies. He also served as CEO and President nancial since 1991, and previously served of Brascan Strategic Asset Management, a subsidiary of New For More Information Contact: as Special Assistant to the Commissioner York-based Brookfield Asset Management, Inc., which special- (U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, Wash- izes in investment advisory services. He also served as Chief In- MUM Development Office ington, D.C.). Before that, Mr. Frank worked for Philip vestment Officer of Imagine Group Holdings Limited, an in- Visit: mum.giftlegacy.com (or click GIVING in the upper right at MUM.edu) Brothers as a Platinum Futures Commodity Trader and as an surance subsidiary of Brookfield. Prior to this he was a Senior Call: 641-472-1180 | email: [email protected] Independent Gold, Silver and Copper Trader on COMEX. Vice President at Merrill Lynch, where he worked for 19 years.

58 | MAHARISHI UNIVERSITY OF MANAGEMENT UNIVERSITY REPORT 2016-2017 | 59 MAHARISHI UNIVERSITY OF MANAGEMENT 1000 NORTH FOURTH STREET FAIRFIELD, IA 52557

Learn about our new This first-of-its-kind program trains students to go beyond organic in their farming BA in Regenerative methods by using only natural resources that are renewed during the farming process. Organic Agriculture www.mum.edu/sustainable-living/regenerative-organic-agriculture/ba-program

Explore our David This two-year low-residency program gives students the opportunity to hone their Lynch MFA in screenwriting skills and creativity under the mentorship of industry professionals. Screenwriting www.mum.edu/mfa-in-screenwriting

Enroll in our online MUM now offers short noncredit online courses in a wide range of topics, including enrichment courses Maharishi AyurVeda, Maharishi Vedic Science, cooking, and sustainability. www.mum.edu/mum-online/noncredit-courses

Come to a Visitors We welcome prospective students and their families to join us at one of our monthly Weekend Visitors Weekends. | www.mum.edu/admissions/visitors-weekends

Join the Invincible Take a break from your activities and enjoy extended practice of the Transcendental America Assembly Meditation and TM-Sidhi programs in the Golden Domes. https://www.invincibleamerica.org

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