Help shape the future of our organization—vote for your Board! Rank all six candidates to determine who will serve a three-year term. The top three are elected; the rest become alternates in ranked order. Every vote matters. Click on a candidate below to learn more.
Nominee Bio:
My exposure to Chinese Medicine began in middle school where I was successfully treated by an acupuncturist for tension headaches. Near the end of high school and transitioning into college I studied Qigong with Robin Murphy, ND and that inspired me to shift majors from theatre into studying multicultural/medical anthropology at the University of Georgia. My path eventually turned into my Masters in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from the Seattle Institute of East Asian Medicine. During my time at SIOM and in Seattle I had broad exposure to qigong through my school, teachers in the area and the Taoist Studies Institute. Qigong has been a guiding force in my personal and professional life leading me towards greater resilience, adaptability, and inner peace. Qigong allows me to maintain a busy clinical practice, manage a business, and raise a family, it continues to enrich my life in many ways.
Membership Category: Professional
How long have you been a member of the NQA? 2018
Have you ever served on any of the NQA committees? No
Have you ever attended any of the annual NQA Conferences? Yes, I attended the live NQA conferences in 2018, 2024 and the virtual conference in 2022 and 2023.
In what other ways do you actively support the NQA? I have promoted the NQA conferences since I attended my first conference in 2018 spreading the word about the great opportunities and experiences gained from those events. I have also trained with many of the teachers who have presented at the NQA conferences including Francesco Garripoli, Roger Jahnke, John Munro, Clayton Crosley, Robert Peng, Mingtong Gu, Zhong Xianwu, Jessica Kolbe & Gail Hubatch.
Have you served other organizations in the past? Volunteered for Camp Aloha a grief and loss camp for kids through Hospice Savannah.
Do you have any talents, skills, or areas of expertise that would be valuable for Board service? I have my Masters in Acupuncture and East Asian Medicine and have been the owner and Acupuncturist at Eight Cranes Acupuncture & Counseling. Eight Cranes Acupuncture and counseling has successfully been operating and serving the Savannah Community since November of 2013. I also grew up in a family business with my parents pioneering the alternative medicine and natural foods scene in Savannah when they opened Brighter Day Natural Foods in 1978 and sold it in 2020. I helped my parents move from hand pricing groceries to modernizing into a scannable point of sales operating system and had a lot of exposure to many of the herbal, homeopathic, nutraceutical and dietary tools used to support health and healing as well as learning Qigong from my fathers homeopathy teacher Robin Murphy. In elementary, middle and high school I was very involved with theater and participated in numerous plays, which taught me how to work with others to achieve a common vision and goal and put on a production.
What specific goals, projects, or initiatives would you like to focus on as a Board member? Supporting the NQA in promoting and holding annual conferences and continuing the trend of expanding educational opportunities through Qi Talks, Syner-Qi events and educational resources that are available for NQA members and the public. Maintaining the growth and momentum the NQA has created over the last few years through virtual and live events and creating an organization that continues to develop a compassionate integral community of people who are passionate about Qigong and the Qi arts while providing pathways for further certifications, research and trainings.
What is your long-term vision for the NQA, and how would you contribute to achieving it?
I would like to continue to see the NQA thrive as an educational hub that continues to inspire future generations into the diversity of Qigong practices. It has certainly done that for me inspiring me to study with many teachers and apply qigong principles in my clinical practice and personal life. I would contribute by continuing to educate others about qigong and encouraging them to join the NQA.
Nominee Bio:
I am a teacher, classical musician and massage therapist. Decades ago I began a career in education beginning as a Special Education Arts teacher, a music teacher, and eventually dove into the world of massage therapy. I have retired from the performing world and now focus on bodywork and leading qigong practices.Combining my passions for music and teaching, I became the Director of Education for a symphony in the East Coast, and then on the West Coast. Here in Colorado I became a grant writer for an opera company, writing grants for education programs. I performed with this company for 20 years and eventually also assumed the duties of the Orchestra Personnel Manager. I now teach Qigong in parks in the west Denver area. I also lead practices at nursing homes and also for addiction recovery groups. And I combine bodywork with Qigong Healing and principles of TCM.
Membership Category: Practitioner
How long have you been a member of the NQA? Since 2023
Have you ever served on any of the NQA committees? No
Have you ever attended any of the annual NQA Conferences? Yes, I attended the conference in Savannah. This was my first conference.
In what other ways do you actively support the NQA? I regularly attend “Qi-Talks” and “Syner-Qi” events.
Have you served other organizations in the past? As Orchestra Personnel Manager I was responsible for pay-roll and oversaw management-union relations. As Director of Education I created and oversaw programs in schools and student attendance of performances. Being a grant writer I researched and then communicated the values of an art form. As a performer I was expected to “play well with others.” As a teacher I practice compassionate and mindfulness. Big picture, I create opportunities.
Do you have any talents, skills, or areas of expertise that would be valuable for Board service? Organizing, planning, implementing outreach opportunities. I still spend my days researching and studying Qigong and TCM so that I may potentially enlighten my clients and Qigong community. Spending years as a performer, I’m not intimidated by practicing with varied groups of people and in very public settings.
What specific goals, projects, or initiatives would you like to focus on as a Board member? Help create and facilitate education and outreach events and activities. Encourage the core values of the NQA: community, integrity and compassion.
What is your long-term vision for the NQA, and how would you contribute to achieving it?
The NQA is an invaluable resource. The National Conference was a life changing experience and a model of what could take place on a local level. I would love to see local events featuring teachers, presenting research, encouraging community. I was surprised to see so many Colorado participants at the conference. We had previously been unacquainted. Networking, advocacy, and research, encouraging inclusivity of diverse populations specifically youth, including at risk youth, and the elderly, those in addiction treatment facilities and/or outpatient recovery groups, hospice and cancer treatment facilities. As an outreach professional, I have the know how.
Nominee Bio:
My name is Dr. Nicholas Dore and show up on a bent knee. Humble and sincere. I just recently retired as a Doctor of Traditional Chinese after 25 years in a private clinical practice. Qigong is a blessed practice for me. I have been practicing for over 35 years. Have helped enrich and enlighten many lives and would like to continue to do so. I have been a Level 4 practitioner since 2008 and would like to volunteer my time and effort towards the NQA. I am retired Naval Special Warfare and suffer the effects of 3 wars.
Membership Category: Professional
How long have you been a member of the NQA? Before 2008
Have you ever served on any of the NQA committees? No
Have you ever attended any of the annual NQA Conferences? N/A
In what other ways do you actively support the NQA? I train people on posture, breath work and mind controyl. Both dynamic & static. I fold my hands in prayer position and pray that you accept me into your fold. Thank you and respectfully, 🐸 Dr. Nicholas M Dore
Have you served other organizations in the past? Private clinical practice. Community Qigong practice. Private lesson instructor
Do you have any talents, skills, or areas of expertise that would be valuable for Board service? Sure. Paperwork, insurance billing, one on one availability.
What specific goals, projects, or initiatives would you like to focus on as a Board member? Helping to make Qigong awareness available to the general public and leading the way.
What is your long-term vision for the NQA, and how would you contribute to achieving it?
I would need to see,think and hear what the other board members input is. Then make a determination.
Nominee Bio:
I was introduced to qigong in 2009 when I joined a Kung Fu school in NJ. The curriculum included kung fu, qigong, Dit Da medicine and Lion Dance. I found that the qigong practice helped me fight back against the effects of Muscular Dystrophy. In 2019, I was awarded NQA Level 1 Certification. I currently serve as NQA Treasurer and I am a member of the NQA Events Committee.
I have a BS in Computer Science and a MS in Project Management. I hold several Department of Defense engineering certifications. I am a retired Army civilian, and worked for 22 years at a major bank/brokerage firm.
Membership Category: Certified Professional
How long have you been a member of the NQA? Since 2017
Have you ever served on any of the NQA committees? Yes
If yes, please describe your role(s) and length of service. I have served / currently serve on the Conference/Events Committee. I joined the Conference Committee in 2017. I hosted the 2018 and 2019 LIVE conferences. I needed to drop out in 2021 when my son got sick. I rejoined the Events Committee in 2023. We hosted the 2024 conference in Savannah. I managed the Vendor area and Silent Auction at the 2024 conference. We are currently planning the 2025 conference in Richmond.
Have you ever attended any of the annual NQA Conferences? Yes. The 2017 Conference was the first conference I attended…. I was recruited there and joined the Conference Committee. We hosted and I was a Presenter at the 2018 conference in Asheville. I helped organize the 2019 conference in Rochester (I could not attend). I organized and hosted several online virtual conference(s) during COVID.
In what other ways do you actively support the NQA?
- I attend and help manage events at the LIVE annual conferences.
- I appeared twice on Qi Talks
- I am schedule to present on Qi Pros in May 2025.
- I attend monthly Event Committee Meetings
- I attend monthly NQA Board meetings
- I attend Quarterly Finance Committee meetings
Have you served other organizations in the past? I founded and launched the FSHD (Muscular Dystrophy) Society South Carolina Chapter. As a recognized Volunteer Leader, I organize annual fundraising events and have raised thousands of dollars for research and clinical studies. I helped organize and I host the "Feeling Fit with FSHD" Wellness Hour. This program 'airs' twice a month and I present a variety of qigong practices and tai chi movements to help others who suffer with FSHD. I created and host the “Qigong for FSHD” Facebook where I host weekly LIVE exercise workshops to share a variety of exercises with others that suffer with FSHD.
I am a member of the Communications Committee here in my community. This group manages the community website, weekly newsletter, email lists and other IT- related tasks.
Do you have any talents, skills, or areas of expertise that would be valuable for Board service? I have 20+ years of experience managing IT development and sustainment projects. I managed High-dollar IT projects and managed and large technical staffs. My technical skill set includes Microsoft Products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Project). I have years of graphics experience working in the awards industry and digital printing. I manage my own websites, CRM, and several social media platforms. I have experience planning and managing global workshop and events. Working in banking and brokerage, I have a strong skill level in Banking and Finance.
What specific goals, projects, or initiatives would you like to focus on as a Board member?
- Expand presence on social media
- Create member/business affiliate program
- Build, host local / regional groups and events
- Continue to establish a global presence
What is your long-term vision for the NQA, and how would you contribute to achieving it?
The NQA needs to establish a practitioner base with Millennials, GenX, GenZ to promote and build a future for qigong. To help qigong to grow and continue to flourish in the next generations. I will help pursue any efforts to promote this effort.
Nominee Bio:
As a Board Member of the NQA for the past two years, I have been honored to contribute to the meaningful progress in organizational growth and member engagement. With a Doctorate in Medical Qigong, a Presidential and Key Executive MBA, and as an ordained Daoist priest, I bring over 30 years of experience in business leadership and energetic practices. I am passionate about teaching Qigong and spirituality, emphasizing their profound impact on people's overall lives. My focus is to continue creating opportunities for growth for all members, preserving the sacred essence of Qigong, and supporting the organization’s evolution in a modern context. I am committed to fostering professional development and strengthening the foundation of the NQA for a vibrant and prosperous future.
Membership Category: Professional
How long have you been a member of the NQA? 3 years
Have you ever served on any of the NQA committees? Yes
If yes, please describe your role(s) and length of service. Web Communication, aslo work in special assigments with the Membership, Publication and Events.
Have you ever attended any of the annual NQA Conferences? Yes, 3 times one of them as a presenter.
In what other ways do you actively support the NQA? In addition to serving as a Board Member, I am always open to supporting the NQA by offering assistance to committees to help them operate more efficiently and effectively. I am always willing to lend my skills and experience to facilitate their work, ensuring their efforts are productive and impactful. I also take every opportunity to promote the organization and its mission, sharing the benefits of membership and raising awareness about the NQA within the broader community. My goal is to contribute to a collaborative and supportive environment that strengthens our shared vision and enhances the value we provide to our members.
Have you served other organizations in the past? Relevant Work
Private Consultant for school helping them to implement a hybrid System of Education - 2009 to present
Built on Vision - VP of Business Development - 2015 - 2023
Myndsi - Business consultant - 2016 - 2022
Internal Alchemy Institute - Dean of Medical Qigong Voluntary Work
Bian Hua Gong - Senior Abbot and adviser - since 2015
Zieri - Marketing Adviser - 2011 - 2013
Breast Cancer Assistance Group of the Monterey Peninsula - Fundraiser Coordinator - 2005 - 2015
Do you have any talents, skills, or areas of expertise that would be valuable for Board service? Over 30 years of experience in business leadership, strategic planning, and organizational development.
Expertise in navigating complex challenges and implementing solutions that drive growth and sustainability.
Pioneer of online education in the qigong field.
Offering advanced business acumen and leadership skills.
Skilled in developing programs and workshops to inspire and educate diverse audiences.
Proven track record of contributing to meaningful progress in organizational growth and community engagement.
Dedicated to creating innovative opportunities for member professional development.
Strong interpersonal skills, fostering collaboration and open communication among team members.
Ability to balance tradition with innovation, ensuring the organization evolves while honoring its roots.
What specific goals, projects, or initiatives would you like to focus on as a Board member? As a Board member, my priority is to support initiatives that help members achieve their goals with greater ease and effectiveness. This includes improving member benefits, encouraging professional development, and advancing the practice of Qigong. My intent is assist with projects that foster organizational growth, enhance community engagement, and create a welcoming and supportive environment for all members.
What is your long-term vision for the NQA, and how would you contribute to achieving it?
My long-term vision for the NQA is to continue foster its growth as a respected and thriving organization that preserves the sacred essence of Qigong while adapting to modern needs. By creating opportunities for member engagement, professional development, and community outreach, we can ensure the organization’s continued success. I am committed to contributing my expertise, promoting awareness of Qigong’s transformative benefits, and supporting collaborative efforts to strengthen the foundation of the NQA for future generations.
Nominee Bio:
A leader with a unique blend of corporate management expertise and deep holistic wellness experience, I bring over two decades of organizational leadership together with comprehensive training in Qigong, yoga, and energy work. My journey represents the integration of strategic thinking, with holistic wisdom, positioning me to contribute distinctive value to the National Qigong Association Board.
- Completed 600 hours of Qigong training/certification with John Munro/Long White Cloud Qigong,
- 500-hour Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) (with Yoga Alliance)
- Developed innovative fusion classes combining Qigong with Yin Yoga, making energy practices accessible to diverse populations
- Active member of the National Qigong Association, consistently promoting the practice's benefits and accessibility
-Corporate Experience: I managed complex, multi-million dollar technology implementation projects for Fortune 500 companies, developing expertise in strategic planning & change management.
Membership Category: Professional
How long have you been a member of the NQA? 2 years
Have you ever served on any of the NQA committees? Yes
If yes, please describe your role(s) and length of service. I was the Membership Committee chair for several months.
Have you ever attended any of the annual NQA Conferences? Yes. I attended the virtual one last year and the one in Savannah. I attended several of the sessions and also volunteered throughout the session - making sure things were going well.
In what other ways do you actively support the NQA? I have been a presenter on Qi Talks and SynerQi, I volunteered/helped at the NQA Conference. I have helped with social media in the past and currently support and share posts that I see on social media.
Have you served other organizations in the past? - Led PTA as President for New Providence Middle School (2017-2019), orchestrating major fundraising events and innovative programs
- Organized district-wide Career Day events, successfully recruiting high-profile participants including FBI agents, NJ Assembly members, and corporate executives
- Served continuously on PTA Board throughout children's education (12 years), demonstrating long-term commitment to community service and organizational growth. Also volunteered on the Parent Led Bandwagon (Marching Band). My roles included running and participating in several fundraising functions.
Do you have any talents, skills, or areas of expertise that would be valuable for Board service? - Prior to pivoting to as a Wellness Teacher/Guide, I managed complex, multi-million dollar technology implementation projects for Fortune 500 companies, developing expertise in strategic planning, change management, and cross-functional team leadership.
- Successfully led corporate-wide system implementations affecting thousands of employees
- Expertise in analyzing organizational needs, developing comprehensive solutions, and managing implementation
- Strong history of documentation and process improvement
- Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, timelines, and diverse teams
Track record of building communities and fostering engagement across different demographic groups
- Skilled at creating accessible programs that welcome participants of all experience levels
- Enjoy working on collaborative team projects.
What specific goals, projects, or initiatives would you like to focus on as a Board member? As a board member, my mission would be twofold: First, to amplify awareness of Qigong's transformative benefits. Having experienced the healing power of Qigong, I'm passionate about helping others discover this profound practice. Second, to help identify organizational gaps and opportunities within the NQA, developing targeted solutions that create lasting value. By combining my corporate expertise with my deep connection to Qigong practice, I aim to help the NQA grow sustainably while staying true to its core mission of promoting and advancing Qigong
What is your long-term vision for the NQA, and how would you contribute to achieving it?
My vision for the National Qigong Association is to establish it as the leading force in integrating ancient Qigong wisdom with modern wellness needs. By strategically expanding our digital presence, strengthening professional development pathways, and building meaningful partnerships with healthcare and wellness organizations, we can make Qigong more accessible to diverse populations while maintaining the highest standards of practice. Ultimately, our goal is to position Qigong alongside yoga and meditation as a mainstream pillar of holistic health, ensuring its transformative benefits reach all who seek them while honoring the tradition's core values and authenticity.