Our Teachers

Kelsang Chogden is an American Buddhist nun and the Resident Teacher at Vikatadamshtri Kadampa Buddhist Center. Her compassionate activities of teaching, guiding, and inspiring those around her are the result of her deep faith, clear wisdom, and heartfelt concern for others. Chogden brings true sincerity and humility to her life as a spiritual teacher.

Cole Furfaro-Strode has been studying and practicing Kadampa Buddhism and meditation for several years and brings a warm, funny, and caring attitude to the classes he leads. He is a student on the Foundation Program and currently leads the class in Canton. Cole is a graduate of John Hopkins University and works as a software developer.

Kelsang Dachog is a senior teacher at Vikatadamshtri Kadampa Buddhist Center in Baltimore. A long-time resident and student of the Center, she is known for the energy, confidence, and clarity of her teachings. Dachog currently teaches the FP class in Annapolis and Peace and Pancakes at the Center in Baltimore and is also the Education Program Coordinator for the Center.

Kelsang Gyaltsen has been practicing Kadampa Buddhism for over 12 years and is a founding member of the Center. He has done many retreats, including two three-month silent retreats at Tharpaland International Retreat Center in Scotland. Gyaltsen is also skilled in Buddhist art. He is admired for his sincerity and gentle, light-hearted approach.

Kelsang Menla has been practicing Kadampa Buddhism for 10 years and took ordination in 2001. Menla brings warmth and humor to the classes he teaches. He currently leads the weekly classes in Churchville and Annapolis as well as occasionally teaching in other areas. Menla is also the Administrative Director of the Center.

Rosemary Scavullo-Flickenger has been studying and practicing Kadampa Buddhism and meditation for over 10 years. She brings kindness and sincerity to her classes which are grounded in her experience of bringing spiritual practice into daily life. Rosemary is a mother, wife, and healing arts practitioner. She currently leads the Kadampa Kids class and the Tuesday lunchtime class.