About Sensei Dhara Kowal

Sensei Dhara (Donna) Kowal, authorized as a Zen teacher by Roshi Bodhin Kjolhede in 2022, co-directs the Rochester Zen Center with Sensei John Pulleyn. Born in Staten Island, New York, her Zen journey began during martial arts training. Joining the Center in 1998, she served as Editor of Zen Bow for 14 years before becoming a staff member in 2019. With a Ph.D. in Rhetoric & Communication, she balanced a successful academic career with leadership in study abroad programs. Presently, Dhara-sensei oversees Sangha Programs and Chapin Mill's Zendo, enjoying nature and birdwatching during her free time.