CCARE Staff

Ready to Make a Real Difference? Unleash the impact of compassion with CCARE’s Applied Compassion Training

August 21, 2023 by CCARE Staff

Do you feel an urgency to make a positive difference in this complex, challenging world?

Applied Compassion Training (ACT), CCARE’s 11-month global live online program, is designed to address this need by preparing you to be an agent of change and compassion within your workplace, organization, community, profession, and personal life. The ACT program will equip you with the skills, knowledge, resources, global community, and expertise needed to apply compassion in all areas of your life, personally and professionally.

ACT participants worldwide consistently identify these five elements as the key factors defining ACT’s distinct and influential training approach:

Action
Experiential Learning
Mentorship
Global Connections
Credibility of CCARE at Stanford University

ACTION

In the ACT program, the action component of compassion takes center stage!

Throughout the program, each participant is guided through a carefully designed process that empowers them to develop and deliver an Applied Compassion Capstone Project they choose in the real world. These projects stand as tangible illustrations of action and influence as participants apply compassion to address specific areas of suffering, creating genuine and lasting change.

Applied Compassion Capstone Projects in ACT come in various sizes, forms, and applications, such as:

Compassion Toolkits for healthcare practitioners to reduce burnout and increase wellness
Compassionate Leadership Programs to increase trust, collaboration, employee engagement, and business success
Art Installations that cultivate awareness of and compassion toward marginalized groups
Compassion Games and apps for students to reduce anxiety, depression and increase self-compassion
Community Hubs for Mental Health to tackle the stigma and provide comprehensive services

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING

ACT integrates Stanford’s renowned Design School experiential approach to learning by engaging participants in evidence-based practices, processes, and experiences that foster direct and embodied learning. Throughout the program, participants are immersed in a deliberately designed environment that encourages the application of compassion, nurturing deep engagement and growth within themselves and with others. This comprehensive approach ensures a truly transformative learning experience.

MENTORSHIP

A cornerstone of ACT is the individualized and group mentorship provided to each participant throughout the program. Every ACT participant is paired with an expert mentor who guides them through their ACT journey, assisting in developing their Applied Compassion Capstone Project. Regular one-to-one mentorship sessions offer guidance and skillful advice as participants design and ultimately implement their compassion projects in real-world contexts. Additionally, participants are part of smaller mentoring groups and mini Capstone Teams, engaging in an evidence-based collaborative and feedback-driven process that supports the growth of each individual and their Applied Compassion Capstone Project.

GLOBAL CONNECTIONS

ACT participants share a profound desire for personal and professional growth, intending to leverage it to inspire and impact the people, communities, and organizations they are connected with. Through this ripple effect, ACT graduates become Ambassadors of Compassion, uniting with a growing, diverse, and influential community making a difference worldwide. Since its inception, over 500 individuals from 40+ countries have successfully graduated from the ACT program at CCARE Stanford University.

CREDIBILITY OF CCARE AT STANFORD UNIVERSITY

CCARE at Stanford University is a foremost authority in compassion advocacy, education, research, and training, recognized by individuals across diverse disciplines, professions, and industries worldwide. CCARE’s ACT program participants are esteemed leaders contributing to the public understanding of compassion and its advantages for organizations and society. Earning a Certificate of Completion as a Compassion Leader and Ambassador from CCARE Stanford offers an unparalleled opportunity to gain credibility, influence, evidence-based resources, skills, confidence, and connections needed to effect meaningful change and impact in the world.

See your influence and impact grow! If you’re ready to effect real change, consider becoming an Ambassador of Compassion through Applied Compassion Training at CCARE Stanford. To learn more about this prestigious program, visit ACT at CCARE Stanford. And to explore ACT Alumni’s diverse Capstone Projects and stories showcasing the impact of applied compassion around the world, visit Meet the ACT Alumni and Explore Their Inspiring Capstone Projects.

Blueprints for Bringing About Compassion in the Workplace

February 28, 2017 by CCARE Staff

We’re living in an epidemic of incivility, disengagement, and despair at work—all forms of suffering that create a costly drain on organizational potential and rob workplaces of dignity and motivation. In their new book, CCARE researcher Monica Worline and her co-author Jane Dutton reveal how compassion contributes to the strategic success of organizations by contributing to capabilities for innovation, service delivery, and adaptability as well as building commitment and engagement among employees and organizational members. Marshalling evidence from two decades of research and sharing compelling stories from real organizations, Monica and Jane offers an informative and imperative call to action to alleviate suffering at work. They offer both personal and organizational blueprints for change that highlight steps anyone can take to alleviate suffering in their workplace. Going beyond personal practices, the book offers concrete and substantive design principles to guide leaders and change agents toward creating lasting and sustainable compassion competence built into the structures and practices of organizations. Creating more compassionate organizations is smart business and enlivening our workplaces with greater compassion is within reach of all of us.

Dr. James Doty, Director of CCARE, said about Monica and Jane’s book: “Work remains a place where most of us spend a large percentage of our waking hours. Yet for many, the workplace remains a source of stress and anxiety. In their landmark book, Awakening Compassion at Work, Drs. Worline and Dutton give us an overview of the problem and science-based solutions. It will not only help the individual in the workplace but in their life. For the employer, it is a powerful tool to give employees meaning in their work but also to increase creativity, productivity and ultimately shareholder value.”

Order a copy of Awakening Compassion at Work: The Quiet Power that Elevates People & Organizations today.

A Compassionate Resolution for this Season

December 20, 2016 by CCARE Staff

Written by Monica Worline & Jane Dutton

We started our staff meeting yesterday with a check-in question for everyone to answer briefly: What are you doing to take care of yourself this holiday season?

Upon hearing the check- in question, one member of our staff immediately laughed and spontaneously shouted out, “Are you kidding? Being a mom during the holidays? Between work and events and shopping and cookie share parties and everything else that I have to do, when do you think I have time to take care of myself?” So many of us resonate with this level of stress – we want to enjoy the holidays with our families, but the work involved in “making the season bright” adds a level of pressure that makes it difficult to savor the joy.

People suffer during the holiday season, often in silence. Another staff member shared the pressure of caring for an elderly relative whose health was rapidly declining, a labor of love for sure, but one that was adding a flavor of sadness to the holidays. Often holidays of all kinds bring up unwanted memories of those we have lost or unwittingly trigger us to remember other difficult life events. In fact, stress-related life events such as the holidays trigger as many as half of the world’s episodes of depression, according to Robert Hales, Chairman of the UC Davis Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences.

And then there’s the added pressure of a new year coming and all the looming “resolutions” that tend to come along as well, emphasizing how we need to be better or different in the future! In the face of all these pressures and stresses, we need reminders about the importance and power of compassion as part of any resolution we make. How can we tap into the beauty and power of compassion in the midst of this season of stress, sadness, and pressure?

First, look for compassion stories.

What we focus on matters so much for how we feel. There’s a well-known legend in which a grandfather tells his grandson that whether the wolf of stress and darkness in his psyche wins out over the wolf of compassion and light depends mightily on which wolf he feeds. Compassion stories are everywhere, if we look for them. Reading and sharing these stories isn’t just a feel-good activity; engaging with stories of compassion teaches us new ways to feed our internal wolf of compassion. One story we loved recently was shared on the KindnessBlog: “When my husband died unexpectedly, a coworker took me under her wing. Every week for an entire year, she would send me a card saying ‘Just thinking of you’ or ‘Hang in there.’ She saved my life.”

At such a time, how do we unlock the beauty and healing power of compassion?

Second, remember that small actions can make a big difference.

When someone’s husband dies unexpectedly, it often seems like there’s not much we can do in the face of so much suffering and grief. But a coworker with a discerning eye for moments ripe for compassion, and a simple calendar reminder to write a card again each week became so important that this woman would write: “She saved my life.” When you notice moments like this, ripe for compassion, do something–even if it seems small. You will never know how any small act of compassion may leave a lasting imprint on another’s life. Our research shows that these seemingly small moments are highly consequential.

Finally, resolve to make more generous interpretations of yourself and others.

In our forthcoming book entitled Awakening Compassion at Work, we help people see how often the work context, or the context of other organizations like schools, places of worship, or community organizations, subtly tip us toward interpretations that either facilitate or block compassion. For instance, someone who is late in an organization with a strict time policy can become easily interpreted as irresponsible, making it easy to deny them our empathy.

The stress and pressure of the season sometimes tip us toward the interpretation that we don’t have the resources to cope with the unexpected arrival of someone’s odd or “bad” behavior that might be born out of suffering or pain. That interpretation blocks our compassion. And the interpretation that we aren’t enough, that we aren’t getting enough done, that we aren’t living up to the expectations of this loaded season, or that we have to fix ourselves with New Year’s resolutions and be different in the future all block our compassion toward our own inner experience as well as toward others.

We all do this, all the time. Luckily, tools like mindfulness, awareness of our breath, contemplation, and self-reflection can help us catch these moments—for these moments, too, are ripe for compassion. When you find yourself saying internally, “I just can’t deal with this right now,” pause for a moment and invite yourself to make a generous interpretation. You are worthy. You are a wonder. You deserve compassion and so does the world around you.

For our staff member who couldn’t find a moment of self-care in her packed holidays, we listened and affirmed her frustrations, as well as wished her some moments of peace such as taking five breaths each day. For our staff member who was caring for her dying relative in addition to her young children, we offered to ourselves take five breaths of peace and send them to her each day. The power of these examples is in their simplicity. A simple check-in question at the beginning of a staff meeting opened the door for ways to awaken compassion at work and led us to reflect on the need all of us have for new compassion resolutions this season.

5 Surprising Reasons Compassion is a Competitive Advantage

March 14, 2016 by CCARE Staff

Written by Monica C. Worline and Jane E. Dutton.

Recently, as Monica’s beloved Bernese Mountain Dog was living her final days, Monica had planned a hotel stay near a specialty veterinary treatment center. On the eve of her arrival, she received news that the tumor was not treatable. She called the hotel’s booking service to cancel the reservation.

“I see that you are subject to a 100% cancellation charge at this time,” the agent said.

“That’s ok, I understand,” Monica answered. “I just wanted you to know that I won’t be checking in.”

“Would you be willing to share why you are cancelling this reservation?” the agent asked.

“I was going to take my dog for treatment at a specialty hospital near the hotel, but…

Inadvertently, tears welled up. The agent, instead of ignoring this, responded quickly with words of comfort. She offered to contact the hotel on Monica’s behalf. Shortly after the call, Monica received an email from the reservation agent, who had negotiated with the hotel to waive the penalty fees and cancel the reservation with no charge. She also acknowledged the sadness of losing a pet. She finished her note with a personal touch: “I am glad to have helped. I am so sorry for what you are going through.”

To read the entire blog post, click here.

CCT Founders and Senior Teachers Offer New Ways to Cultivate Compassion

September 3, 2015 by CCARE Staff

Compassion Cultivation Training (CCT) is an educational program designed to help improve resilience and build connections with others—ultimately providing an enhanced overall sense of well-being. The founders and senior teachers who developed CCT combined traditional contemplative practices with contemporary psychology and scientific research designed to effectively help create a more compassionate life for all participants in the program.

CCT has been highly impactful and evidence continues to grow demonstrating its efficacy. Since the initial development of CCT, its founders and senior teachers have been busy helping people develop more ways to access this profound material. Here are a few of the latest developments from the CCT founding team:

New East Bay CCT course offering! Join Erika Rosenberg at UC Berkeley

Senior CCT teacher, Erika Rosenberg, will be offering a CCT course this fall at the University of California-Berkeley. The course meets on Mondays, October 5-November 30, from 7-9pm. Tuition is $285/person. To register, please complete this submission form.

Principal Founder of CCT, Thupten Jinpa, Releases New Book, A Fearless Heart

Thupten Jinpa’s new book, A Fearless Heart: How the Courage to Be Compassionate Can Transform Our Lives, teaches and inspires! Filled with remarkable stories of transformation that have resulted from the practice of compassion, including Jinpa’s extraordinary personal story, this book conveys lessons of CCT in a whole new way. Read about Jinpa’s journey; from a monastery in India to fatherhood in Montreal, and all the lessons learned in between. A Fearless Heart is available to order here.

Think about stress in a new way with CCT Senior Teacher Kelly McGonigal

Kelly McGonigal shares the surprising science behind stress in her latest book,mThe Upside of Stress: Why Stress is Good For You, and How to Get Good at It. She is known for her popular TED Talk on this topic, “How to Make Stress Your Friend,” and in her new book, she dives into the research to show we can actually lead a healthier life when we know how to embrace stress. Click here to order your copy of Kelly’s book now.

New Workbook by Margaret Cullen and Colleagues

Margaret Cullen, senior CCT teacher, and Gonzalo Brito Pons, certified CCT instructor, co-authored the new workbook: The Mindfulness-Based Emotional Balance Workbook: An Eight-Week Program for Improved Emotion Regulation and Resilience, which is listed as #1 New Release in Mood Disorders on Amazon. Order your copy here!

The book brings together the fundamentals of mindfulness based stress reduction with a focus on the understanding and management of emotions, including challenging emotions such as fear and anger, as well as the cultivation of forgiveness, compassion and kindness. The nature and function of emotions are explored and there are 11 guided meditations and visualizations that accompany the book.

An Interview with the Founder of MIT’s Innovative Transformative Leadership Program – Now to Be Offered at Stanford!

September 1, 2015 by CCARE Staff

Venerable Tenzin Priyadarshi, founder of the Dal ai Lama Center for Ethics and Transformative Value s at MIT, talks with CCARE about this exciting leadership development program, one of the highest rated programs in innovation and leadership at Sloan School of Management. CCARE is delighted to co-host a special offering of this program for Silicon Valley leaders who deeply believe in leading with a purpose, to be held at Stanford University on April 14 and 15, 2016.

CCARE: Can you tell us a little bit about the T ransformative Leadership Program?

Venerable Tenzin Priyadarshi: The Transformative Leadership Program was created in conjunction with faculty at MIT Sloan and piloted at Yale and Cornell before taking it internationally. The objective of this program is to help leaders develop their unique leadership signature. Throughout the workshop, all participants will be able to tap into their unique strengths and learn how to refine themselves as leaders. We developed this program during a time when the world was going through a major financial crisis. This allowed us to identify and examine important values-based components of successful business organizations. The program really taps into the core values of individuals as leaders who can then articulate those visions for their organizations.

CCARE: What led you to develop the Transformative Leadership Program?

Venerable Tenzin Priyadarshi: Most business schools are focused on how to truly nurture global leaders. As business organizations and leadership become more global, they need to understand which values are shared across cultures, so they can be translated and incorporated into the entire culture of the company. This process of translating and transplanting is crucial, so that when the organization becomes global, business leaders can truly connect with the masses.

CCARE: How does the TLP build on the overall mission of the Dalai Lama Center for Ethics and Transformative Values?

Venerable Tenzin Priyadarshi: The Dalai Lama Center for Ethics and Transformative Values’ primary vision is to foster ethics and values-based leadership that can be manifested from individuals to organizations to societies. The Transformative Leadership Program is a core program of our center because we believe business organizations play an important role in dictating the ethos and governance of any society. When we talk about creating good models for citizenship and governance, it is crucial that business organizations, companies, and financial institutions also model these shared values and concerns. This will help us create a more stable, wholesome, and happier society.

Can you tell us a little bit more about the curriculum and the faculty who will be leading the program at Stanford?

Venerable Tenzin Priyadarshi: The workshop faculty will consist of Rodrigo Canales, an associate professor in organizational behavior at Yale School of Management, who has earned his MBA and PhD from MIT Sloan School of Management. I, Tenzin Priyadarshi, will focus on reflective methods for personal and social transformation. Finally, Dr. James Doty will look into the neuroscience of transformation. The program is made to be as comprehensive as possible, in regards to both personal development and leadership skill sets.

We have structured the program curriculum to include an element of surprise. Past global participants tell us this is very useful as many come in expecting just another leadership program. However, our program can truly transform what we believe leadership is, which helps leaders analyze and shape their values and practices. This program is not prescriptive and not just about best business practices. Instead, it has a very didactic and reflective model that explores personal values, business values, and organizational values and the possible disconnects, compromises, and net costs.

CCARE: What can leaders expect to take away from the program?

Venerable Tenzin Priyadarshi: Although it is designed to be a two-day workshop, it also provides additional tools that leaders can continue to work with over a period of 4-6 months. These tools will focus on their leadership signature, values, and emotional accountability as a leader. This third component is important because we strongly believe that a good leader is a self-aware leader.

CCARE: Can you share participant feedback and experiences from past program offerings?

Venerable Tenzin Priyadarshi: Vice President of an oil and natural gas company in Mexico City shared that he has been exposed to about 60 leadership programs throughout his career, and that this was by far most effective and the best program he has attended.

Santander, a large banking corporation, who has been sending their executives for three years in a row to train with the Transformative Leadership Program, offers this reflection:

“We believe that the Transformative Leadership Program fosters in participants a new mindset and change in consciousness. Participants discover and develop their own leadership signature through rigorous methods of inquiry. This program brings the understanding and practice of leadership to a new level.

We are convinced that by supporting this program, we will help contribute to the training of gifted leaders with the skills to positively influence their organizations, communities, and society.”

And, mid-career executives and young entrepreneurs who have taken the Transformative Leadership Program at MIT Sloan School of Management and Yale School of Management have taken their positive feedback to the deans at both business schools and essentially stated, “nobody should finish their MBA without taking this program.”

We hope leaders from all kinds of Silicon Valley-based organizations will join us at Stanford.

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To register and learn more about this event, please visit the Dalai Lama Center for Ethics and Transformative Values website. For questions, call 617-324-6030 or email info@thecenter.mit.edu.

Dr. James Doty, Founder of CCARE, Releases Book

July 16, 2015 by CCARE Staff

In Into the Magic Shop: A Neurosurgeon’s Quest to Discover the Mysteries of the Brain and the Secrets of the Heart, Dr. James Doty, neurosurgeon and professor at Stanford School of Medicine and Director of Stanford’s Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education has written a moving account – part auto-biographical narrative, part popular psychology – that illuminates the power of compassion to change lives and heal hearts.

No stranger to suffering, Doty was raised in abject poverty and neglect, the son of an invalid mother and alcoholic father. Had it not been for the kindness of a stranger – a woman in a magic shop – who taught him meditation at a young age, he would have succumbed to hopelessness. Instead, he rose above his fears and insecurities, developed resilience and excelled. Attending college and then medical school, Doty landed highly coveted and prestigious neurosurgery positions.

Forever touched by the kindness of the woman in the magic shop, Doty – who overcame a series of personal struggles even as an adult – understands the powerful impact that compassion can have – for his patients, his colleagues and all those with whom he comes into contact. Doty has made large philanthropic gifts, at times giving away all he had.

The Dalai Lama – which whom Doty maintains a close friendship – inspired Doty to found Stanford’s Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education. Through his work as a neurosurgeon, compassion scientist and researcher, Huffington Post blogger and acclaimed international speaker, Doty has touched the lives of thousands of people. Into the Magic Shop is an intimate account of Doty’s profound and moving insights derived from struggle. Along with profound wisdom, readers learn practical tools for how to increase their compassion and live a life of meaning and purpose.

Pre-sold and translated into dozens of languages already, Into the Magic Shop is now available for pre-order on Amazon here.

Let’s Catalyze Compassion for Nepal

April 30, 2015 by CCARE Staff

Tragedies like the earthquake in Nepal cause us to engage in soul-searching about life and how we are living, as well as call us to respond with compassion to the intense suffering that we witness. For those of us seeking ways to help, it can be difficult to know how to respond. Research by the CompassionLab shows that leaders and influential people who put their humanity on display are powerful catalysts for healing. In the midst of unspeakably challenging circumstances, where it seems that world has been turned upside down, leaders can create a context for meaning, opening up an environment in which people can express how they feel, make some sense of the pain, and seek and provide comfort with others who are also suffering. In the face of terrible tragedies like the one unfolding in Nepal, leaders are also crucial in creating a context for action. By acting themselves, and by inviting and encouraging those who witness suffering to find ways to reach out and alleviate suffering, leaders who model compassionate behavior make it easier for others who might be wrestling with questions about what is right or appropriate to do.

If you are a leader in your organization, club, school, student group, community organization, religious community, or workplace, we invite you to take this opportunity to integrate compassion into your leadership in a very real way. Create a context for meaning by opening up dialogue about this disaster, how it provokes vulnerability for all of us, and how it makes you feel as a fellow human being. Create a context for action by inviting people to assist in relief efforts, share resources to learn more, and collectively gather money or supplies or good wishes. By leading in a time of trauma, you will pave the way for small and large acts of compassion, both now and in the future.

How You Can Help

To read more about how leaders create contexts of meaning and action, you can read Leading in Times of Trauma by the CompassionLab.

To find a variety of charities and relief organizations where you can help, visit lists via KQED News, TIME Magazine, and Lion’s Roar.

Call for a Temporary Outreach and Program Coordinator

April 6, 2015 by CCARE Staff

CCARE is pleased to announce a position opening for a Temporary Outreach & Program Coordinator.

TO APPLY: Please review the position description below and submit an application online at https://stanfordmedicine.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_51oEgmR2YvDpvNP no later than Wednesday April 22, 2015.

QUESTIONS: Please contact CCARE by email at ccare_info@stanford.edu and put “Temporary Outreach & Program Coordinator” in the subject line of your email.

TEMPORARY OUTREACH & PROGRAM COORDINATOR

ASSIGNMENT LENGTH/HOURS
Maximum hours are 980 hours in a six-month period, up to 40 hours/week, M-F

BENEFITS
Not available for this position

PRIMARY PURPOSE(S)

To perform a wide range of essential administrative, logistical and communication duties which support the goals and objectives of the center’s Director and Associate Director. This position is supervised by the Associate Director.

KNOWLEDGE

Required:

The temporary Outreach and Program Coordinator must be able to demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills to ensure she/he is able to communicate complex ideas to all levels of individuals, internal and external to the University. Attention to detail, proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and the willingness and ability to quickly learn new software is required. The ability to thrive in an often fast-paced and dynamic work environment is a must, along with the ability to work with minimal supervision. It is essential that this individual demonstrate the ability to successfully complete long and short term projects with minimal supervision and conflicting deadlines. Experience handling confidential information with discretion and diplomacy is required. The temporary Outreach and Program Coordinator will be required to form effective working relationships with contractors and all levels of employees internal and external to the department. The responsibilities of this role will require the incumbent to be able to get work done through others when unable to do so themselves.

Desired:

Experience with event organization on and off campus. Experience/familiarity of communication with social media (particularly Facebook and Twitter). Experience with website editing, particularly using WordPress. Experience with producing professional documents and newsletters. Experience with Stanford Oracle Financials (SmartMart, iProcurement, iOU, PCard) and with Reggie or Certain event registration systems.

EDUCATION
4 year college degree or equivalent relevant work experience. Master’s Degree preferred.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
55% – Program & Event Coordination – Reserving venues and submitting orders with vendors including caterers, Stanford Event & Labor Services, housekeeping, videographers for CCARE lectures, conferences, meetings, classes, retreats. Setting up and administering registration systems (using Reggie for free events and Certain for paid events) or coordinating with the Stanford Ticket Office for paid ticketed events. Serving as a principal contact for staff, vendors and speakers/instructors. Providing customer support to event registrants, CCT course students, CCT Drop-In registrants, and CCT Teacher Trainees undergoing their Certification process. Collecting/maintaining records and data of CCT course evaluations, CCT course students, CCT Teacher Trainees and Certified Teachers. Creating and distributing surveys. Maintaining and managing access to the CCT Teacher Certification Program’s Groupsite as needed.

25% – Communications & Outreach – Creating, distributing and proof-reading email and social media announcements for the Center using Constant Contact, Facebook. Creating event postings on CCARE’s website and the Stanford Event Calendar. Managing website content, with assistance when necessary from a contracted web team. Maintaining CCARE’s web directory of Certified CCT Teachers. Promoting CCARE events, courses and conferences on and off the Stanford campus. Identifying and contacting potential event cosponsors and maintaining successful working relationships. Communicating with event presenters, course instructors, staff, and attendees/students to ensure all are well-informed. Screen and reply to public email inquiries sent to CCARE’s departmental email addresses.

10% – Financial Transactions – Processing supply and service orders, invoice payments, reimbursements and honoraria checks.

10% – Misc – Attending CCARE team meetings, assisting the Administrative Associate, Associate Director and Director with miscellaneous tasks as required, serving as a supervisor at times to undergraduate student workers and interns, assisting the Associate Director and Administrator with screening and interviewing undergraduate student workers and interns.

CRITICAL FACTORS

1. Problem Solving and Analysis

This position requires the ability and motivation to successfully identify solutions for problem-solving conflicting interests/priorities and navigating unknown processes. There will be times when unique situations will be presented to the incumbent, and this individual will need to assess and analyze the situation and seek appropriate action in a timely manner.

2. Adaptability

The Center frequently functions at a fast pace, with a dynamic work environment that requires someone highly adaptable, motivated, focused and enthusiastic about tackling the challenges presented. Ideal candidates will work well within a small team, as well as independently with minimal supervision.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Stanford is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Extended Deadline: Call for Dignity Health-CCARE Fellowship Proposals

January 21, 2015 by CCARE Staff

Call for Proposals:

The Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education (CCARE) at the Stanford University School of Medicine seeks an applied science researcher to focus on conducting research related to compassion and healthcare. The ideal researcher will focus on patient care outcomes as they are impacted by the expression of compassion in the healthcare setting. Additional research related to the well-being of patient care providers and others in healthcare settings will be considered, with priority given to research that addresses patient care directly. The Dignity Health CCARE Fellow will write a detailed research proposal for a two-year project to be conducted at Stanford University in conjunction with Dignity Health. The qualified candidate will have a thorough understanding of the science of empathy and compassion and a background in health care or health care organizations, as well as training in multiple research methods and a demonstrated history of research at the level of M.D., M.P.H., or Ph.D. The successful candidate must demonstrate the capacity to work independently as well as the ability to conduct successful collaborative research with multiple stakeholders.

Position Details:

The main responsibility of the Dignity Health-CCARE Fellow is to conduct research that will advance the field of kindness and compassion, in particular with regards to health outcomes and/or in healthcare settings. The Fellow will propose a plan of research and work at Stanford University under the direct supervision of CCARE director, Dr. James Doty and Associate Director, Dr. Emma Seppala. Applicants may additionally wish to work and/or consult with relevant Stanford faculty in their field. The Fellow will provide regular reports on research progression and will aim to submit one or more peer-reviewed empirical papers on the results of his or her research. The position is anticipated to commence Summer/Fall 2015 and is potentially renewable for 1 additional year dependent on progress. The fellowship will cover salary and benefits, which will range from about 40-60k depending on experience. Additional funds will be provided for research.

Requirements:

MD, MPH or PhD with at least 1 year of postdoctoral research work and expertise in fields directly related to compassion research and/or health outcomes of stress and well-being (psychology, neuroscience, physiology, behavior, biochemistry). The applicant must be a U.S. citizen.

Application procedure:

Please submit your application materials through this link by 11:59PM Pacific Time on Sunday, March 15, 2015.

The following documents will be need to be uploaded in PDF or MS Word Doc format:
• Curriculum Vitae

• 1 Personal Statement (approximately 1 page): Please state your particular interest in this field and why your background makes you a good fit for this position.

• 1 Research Proposal with Budget and Budget Justification: Please describe the kind of research study you would envision conducting as a fellow. Please base this description on your relevant research experience as it ties into the field of compassion and health. Please be as specific as possible. If you would be collaborating with Stanford faculty on this proposal, please describe. Research proposal should be no more than 3 pages (double spaced, Times New Roman Font, 1-inch margins) in addition to a one page budget and budget justification (not including your salary). The 3 page limit does not include references and citations. However, graphs and figures are to be included in the 3-page description.

Note: The top three finalists will be asked for 3 letters of recommendation.

Review Process:

An expert committee of CCARE faculty and staff will review applications. Applicants will be notified no later than May 1, 2015. Stanford is an equal opportunity employer.

For questions, please email ccare_info@stanford.edu. Please put “Dignity Health-CCARE Fellowship” in the subject of your email.

The Healing Power of Kindness

November 19, 2014 by CCARE Staff

We’ve all heard the old adage that an apple a day keeps the doctor away, but what about a smile?

An extensive scientific literature review sponsored by Dignity Health and conducted by the Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education (CCARE) at Stanford University reveals a growing body of scientific evidence that indicates kindness holds the power to heal. We now know that this often overlooked, virtually cost-free remedy has a statistically significant impact on our physical health. For example, the positive effect of kindness is even greater than that of taking aspirin to reduce the risk of a heart attack or the influence of smoking on male mortality. And it doesn’t even require a trip to the pharmacy.

Those of us who work in the health care profession and study medicine have long believed in the value of a kind, compassionate bedside manner. But now, this belief isn’t just a nice notion – it’s sound science. The Dignity Health/CCARE scientific literature review shows that when patients are treated with kindness — when there is an effort made to get to know them, empathize with them, communicate with them, listen to them and respond to their needs.

To read the entire blog post, click here.

Call for Dignity Health-CCARE Fellowship Proposals

October 22, 2014 by CCARE Staff

Call for Proposals:

The Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education (CCARE) at the Stanford University School of Medicine seeks an applied science researcher to focus on conducting research related to compassion and healthcare. The ideal researcher will focus on patient care outcomes as they are impacted by the expression of compassion in the healthcare setting. Additional research related to the well-being of patient care providers and others in healthcare settings will be considered, with priority given to research that addresses patient care directly. The Dignity Health CCARE Fellow will write a detailed research proposal for a two-year project to be conducted in conjunction with Dignity Health. The qualified candidate will have a thorough understanding of the science of empathy and compassion and a background in health care or health care organizations, as well as training in multiple research methods and a demonstrated history of research at the level of M.D., M.P.H., or Ph.D. The successful candidate must demonstrate the capacity to work independently as well as the ability to conduct successful collaborative research with multiple stakeholders.

Position Details:

The main responsibility of the Dignity Health-CCARE Fellow is to conduct research that will advance the field of kindness and compassion, in particular with regards to health outcomes and/or in healthcare settings. The Fellow will propose a plan of research and work under the direct supervision of CCARE director, Dr. James Doty and Associate Director, Dr. Emma Seppala. Applicants may additionally wish to work and/or consult with relevant Stanford faculty in their field. The Fellow will provide regular reports on research progression and will aim to submit one or more peer-reviewed empirical papers on the results of his or her research. The position is anticipated to commence January 1, 2015 and is potentially renewable for 1 additional year dependent on progress. The fellowship will cover salary and benefits. Additional funds will be provided for research.

Requirements:

Application procedure:

Please submit your application materials through this link by 5:00PM Pacific Time on Monday November 3, 2014.

The following documents will be need to be uploaded in PDF or MS Word Doc format:
• Curriculum Vitae

• 1 Personal Statement (approximately 1 page): Please state your particular interest in this field and why your background makes you a good fit for this position.

Note: The top three finalists will be asked for 3 letters of recommendation.

Review Process:

An expert committee of CCARE faculty and staff will review applications. The successful applicant will be notified no later than Wednesday November 5, 2014. Stanford is an equal opportunity employer.

For questions, please email ccare_info@stanford.edu. Please put “Dignity Health-CCARE Fellowship” in the subject of your email.

Call for Temporary Administrative Assistant

July 17, 2014 by CCARE Staff

The Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education at Stanford University’s School of Medicine invites you to apply for the Administrative Assistant position. It is full-time (40/hrs week), and has the potential to run up to one year. Benefits are not included. There is potential for a full-time benefited position to become available. Please see below for further details.

Application Procedure for either position:

Apply online below between now and August 1, 2014 by 11:59PM PST. You will need to provide the following:

• 3 Professional References

• Cover Letter

• Curriculum Vitae

Review Process:

An expert committee of CCARE staff will review applications. If you do not meet the minimum requirements, your application will not be considered. Candidates being considered will be notified in a few weeks time. Stanford is an equal opportunity employer.

For questions, please email ccare_info@stanford.edu. Please put “Temporary Administrative Assistant” in the title of your email. Deadline for applications is August 1 but we will be interviewing applicants on a rolling basis.

TEMPORARY ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT – Click here to apply

Note: if the link does not work, please copy and paste URL https://stanfordmedicine.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_3PhisIaBoMGu6sB

PRIMARY PURPOSE(S)

To perform a wide range of administrative duties to support the goals and objectives of the Associate Director and Director of the Center.

KNOWLEDGE

Required:

The administrative assistant must demonstrate both verbal and written communication skills to ensure she/he is able to communicate complex ideas to all levels of individuals internal and external to the University. This individual must demonstrate the analytical skills to deal with complex documents to ensure the smooth running of the Center. Administrative experience of a minimum of four years. Experience handling confidential information with discretion and diplomacy. Experience drafting and submitting reports. Experience answering courtesy calls. Must demonstrate the ability to successfully complete long and short term projects with minimal information and conflicting deadlines. The ability to form collegial working relationships with all levels of employees internal and external to the department. The responsibilities of this position may require some management skills.

Desired:

Knowledge of Stanford policies are a strong plus. Experience with organizing events and conferences on and off campus.

EDUCATION

4 year college degree or equivalent.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Performs administrative and office support activities for multiple supervisors. Duties may include fielding telephone calls, customer service, word processing, creating spreadsheets, filing, and faxing. Extensive internet research abilities and strong communication skills are a must. Scheduling meetings and appointments, processing all financial transactions, answering public telephonic and email inquiries regarding CCARE and the Compassion Cultivation Training (CCT) program. Creating project budgets. Managing logistical aspects of CCARE events, anything from booking venues to booking hotels and flights, and processing reimbursements for speakers. Coordinating presenters, staff, and attendees. Working with all individuals involved with events to ensure smooth functioning, including managing the event the day of. Attending team meetings and contributing as a vital member of the small CCARE team. May assist in hiring and managing interns and Stanford undergraduate fellows.

CRITICAL FACTORS

A. Problem solving and analysis.

This position requires a strong understanding of writing, communication skills, knowledge of management, handling of confidential information, and public relations. There will be times when unique situations will be presented to the incumbent, and this individual will need to assess and analyze the situation and seek appropriate action in a timely manner.

B. Being adaptable.

CCARE functions at a very high pace, dynamic environment that requires someone highly adaptable, motivated, focused and enthusiastic. Ideal candidates will work well within a small team, as well as independently with minimal supervision. You will need to be able to perform well working under a remote manager.

Call for a Temporary Research & Outreach Associate and a Temporary Outreach & Program Coordinator

June 19, 2014 by CCARE Staff

The Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education at Stanford University’s School of Medicine invites you to apply for one of two temporary positions: Research & Outreach Associate or Outreach & Program Coordinator . Both assignments are full-time (40/hrs week), and have the potential to run up to one year. Benefits are not included. There is potential for a full-time benefited position to become available. Please see below for further details on each.

Application procedure for either position:

Apply online below between now and August 1, 2014 by 11:59PM PST. You will need to provide the following:

• 3 Professional References

• Cover Letter

• Curriculum Vitae

Review Process:

An expert committee of CCARE staff will review applications. If you do not meet the minimum requirements, your application will not be considered. Applicants will be notified in a few weeks time. Stanford is an equal opportunity employer.

For questions, please email ccare_info@stanford.edu. Please put “Temporary Research & Outreach Associate” OR “Temporary Outreach & Program Coordinator” in the title of your email. Deadline for applications is August 1 but we will be interviewing applicants on a rolling basis.

TEMPORARY RESEARCH & OUTREACH ASSOCIATE – Click here to apply

Note: if the link does not work, please copy and paste URL https://stanfordmedicine.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_ePfl1rcBTKmi0g5 into your browser

PRIMARY PURPOSE(S)

To perform a wide range of research-based and administrative duties to support the goals and objectives of the Associate Director and Director of the Center.

KNOWLEDGE

Required:

The research and outreach associate must demonstrate both verbal and written communication skills to ensure she/he is able to communicate complex ideas to all levels of individuals internal and external to the University. It is essential that this individual demonstrate the analytical skills to synthesize data and research documents and know the basics of conducting empirical research, including being familiar with statistical analysis software, such as SPSS and formatting with the latest APA guide. Research experience of a minimum of two years. Ability to write scientifically and to edit and draft empirical manuscripts. Experience handling confidential information with discretion and diplomacy. Experience drafting and submitting IRB protocols. Experience compiling literature reviews. Demonstrate the ability to successfully complete long and short term projects with minimal information and conflicting deadlines. The ability to form collegial working relationships with all levels of employees internal and external to the department. The responsibilities of this position will require the research and outreach assistant to be able to get work done through others when unable to do so themselves.

Desired:

Experience with organizing events on and off campus. Experience with scientific and research writing and strong background in statistical software such as SPSS. Experience presenting research results. Knowledge of social media for CCARE marketing. Experience with WordPress website editing.

EDUCATION

Master’s in the fields of Neuroscience or Psychology or equivalent research experience.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

40% Research – Completing and submitting IRB protocols, creating experimental designs, contacting and organizing participants, coordinating all the contributors of the research and organizing meetings, running experiments, entering and analyzing data, writing research grants, staying updated with the latest research in the field of compassion, and attending conferences to present.

15% Communications – Creating and managing newsletters using Constant Contact and social media outlets, such as Facebook, Twitter, and Linked In. Everything from adding the events to our registration system on Reggie, adding to our website (WordPress experience a plus) to advertising them and ensuring high attendance for each event. This also includes uploading all our event videos to Youtube and managing a majority of the content on the website, with assistance from our web team.

30% Outreach – Managing and promoting CCARE events and conferences on and off the Stanford campus. Generating ideas and content for events. Identifying and contacting potential cosponsors and partners and maintaining good relationships with them. Coordinating presenters, staff, and attendees. Working with all individuals involved with the event to ensure its smooth running, including managing the event the day of.

15% – Misc – Attending team meetings and contributing as a vital member of the small CCARE team. Others will include administrative work, customer service, processing financial transactions, planning logistics for events and conferences, may assist in hiring and managing interns and Stanford undergraduate fellows.

CRITICAL FACTORS

A. Problem solving and analysis.

This position requires a strong understanding of scientific research, writing, communication skills, knowledge of social media, management, handling of confidential information, and public relations. There will be times when unique situations will be presented to the incumbent, and this individual will need to assess and analyze the situation and seek appropriate action in a timely manner.

B. Being adaptable.

TEMPORARY OUTREACH & PROGRAM COORDINATOR– Click here to apply

Note: if the link does not work, please copy and paste URL https://stanfordmedicine.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_8IBeXoDVmOfe73v into your browser

PRIMARY PURPOSE(S)

To perform a wide range of administrative, logistical and communication duties to support the goals and objectives of the Associate Director and Director of the Center.

KNOWLEDGE

Required:

The temporary outreach and program coordinator must be able to demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills to ensure she/he is able to communicate complex ideas to all levels of individuals, internal and external to the University. Attention to detail, proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and the willingness and ability to quickly learn new software is required. The ability to thrive in an often fast-paced and dynamic work environment is a must, along with the ability to work with minimal supervision and oversight from a remote supervisor. It is essential that this individual demonstrate the ability to successfully complete long and short term projects with minimal supervision and conflicting deadlines. Experience handling confidential information with discretion and diplomacy is required. The Temporary Outreach and Program Coordinator will be required to form collegial working relationships with all levels of employees internal and external to the department. The responsibilities of this role will require the incumbent to be able to get work done through others when unable to do so themselves.

Desired:

Experience with event organization on and off campus. Experience/familiarity of marketing with social media (particularly Facebook and Twitter). Experience with website editing, particularly using WordPress. Experience with producing professional newsletters/ documents. Experience with Stanford Oracle Financials (SmartMart, iProcurement, iOU, PCard). Experience with Reggie or Certain registration systems.

EDUCATION

4 year college degree or equivalent relevant work experience. Masters preferred.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

50% – Program & Event Coordination – Reserving venues and submitting orders with vendors including caterers, Event & Labor Services, housekeeping, videographers for CCARE’s lectures, conferences, meetings, classes, retreats. Setting up and administering registration systems (using Reggie for free events and Certain for paid events) or coordinating with the Stanford Ticket Office for paid ticketed events. Serving as a principal contact for staff, vendors and speakers. Providing customer service to event registrants, CCT course students and CCT Teacher Trainees undergoing their Certification process. Processing ordering supplies, processing PCard purchases, invoice payments, reimbursements and honoraria.

40% – Communications & Outreach – Creating and distributing newsletters and social media announcements for the Center using Constant Contact, Facebook, Twitter, and Linked In with supervision from the Associate Director. Creating event postings on CCARE’s website and the Stanford Event Calendar. Uploading event videos from to CCARE’s Youtube channel and website video section. Managing the majority of CCARE’s website content, with assistance when necessary from a contracted web team. Maintaining CCARE’s web directory of Certified CCT Teachers. Promoting CCARE events, courses and conferences on and off the Stanford campus. Identifying and contacting potential event cosponsors/partners and maintaining successful working relationships. Communicating with event presenters, course instructors, staff, and attendees/students to ensure all are well-informed. Screen and reply to public email inquiries sent to CCARE’s departmental email addresses.

10% – Misc – Attending CCARE team meetings, assisting the Administrator, Associate Director and Director with miscellaneous tasks as required, serving as a supervisor at times to undergraduate student workers and interns, assisting the Associate Director and Administrator with screening and interviewing undergraduate student workers and interns.

CRITICAL FACTORS

A. Problem solving and analysis.

B. Being adaptable.

CCARE functions at a very high pace, with a dynamic work environment that requires someone highly adaptable, motivated, focused and enthusiastic about tackling the challenges presented. Ideal candidates will work well within a small team, as well as independently with minimal supervision. The ability to perform well while working with a remote supervisor is a must.

Call for Proposals

May 22, 2014 by CCARE Staff

Call for Proposals:

The Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education at Stanford University School of Medicine in collaboration with Dignity Health invites MD, MPH or PhD level scientists to apply for the Dignity Health-CCARE Fellowship. The purpose of this fellowship is to empirically evaluate the impact of kindness and compassion on healthcare outcomes and/or healthcare settings.

Position Details:

The main responsibility of the Dignity Health-CCARE Fellow is to conduct research that will advance the field of kindness and compassion, in particular with regards to health outcomes and/or in healthcare settings. The Fellow will propose a plan of research and work under the direct supervision of CCARE director, Dr. James Doty and Associate Director, Dr. Emma Seppala. Applicants may additionally wish to work and/or consult with relevant Stanford faculty in their field. The Fellow will provide regular reports on research progression and will aim to submit one or more peer-reviewed empirical papers on the results of his or her research. The position begins September 1, 2014 and is renewable for 1 additional year depending on progress. Fellowship will cover salary and benefits. Additional funds will be provided for research.

Requirements:

Application procedure:

Please submit your application materials through this link by midnight June 15^th, 2014. You will need to provide the following:

• 3 Letters of Recommendation

• 1 Research Proposal: Please describe the kind of research study you would envision conducting as a fellow. Please base this description on your relevant research experience as it ties into the field of compassion and health. Please be as specific as possible. If you would be collaborating with Stanford faculty on this proposal, please describe. Research proposal should be no more than 3 pages (double spaced, Times New Roman Font, 1-inch margins) in addition to a one page budget and budget justification (not including your salary). The 3 page limit does not include references and citations. However, graphs and figures are to be included in the 3-page description.

• 1 Personal Statement: Please state your particular interest in this field and why your background makes you a good fit for this position.

• Curriculum Vitae

Review Process:

An expert committee of CCARE faculty and staff will review applications. The successful applicant will be notified no later than August 1. Stanford is an equal opportunity employer.

For questions, please email ccare_info@stanford.edu. Please put “Dignity Health-CCARE Fellowship” in the title of your email.

Compassion Week 2014

May 19, 2014 by CCARE Staff

Stanford University’s Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education, The Tenzin Gyatso Institute and The Charter for Compassion partner to host San Francisco Compassion Week

Stanford University’s Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education (CCARE), the Tenzin Gyatso Institute, Inc. (TGI) and The Charter for Compassion will host “Compassion Week” in San Francisco from November 10 – 16, 2014 with lead sponsorship from Dignity Health. This will include the 2^nd Science of Compassion conference, the inaugural conference on Compassion & Healthcare, the 3rd Empathy and Compassion in Society conference, and The Charter for Compassion Day at the historic Fort Mason Center. During the weekend a “Living Compassionately” retreat will be held on the Stanford University campus.

Science of Compassion 2014, November 10-11, 2014

CCARE is excited to offer its second Science of Compassion academic conference, a gathering of leading experts in research on compassion, altruism, empathy, social connection and service to discuss their latest scientific findings. The conference will explore the origins of compassion and compassionate action, how it can be measured, and how it can be fostered through interventions.

Compassion & Healthcare Conference, November 12, 2014

With support from Dignity Health, the 5th largest healthcare provider in the U.S., CCARE is proud to present the inaugural Compassion and Healthcare Conference. The conference’s purpose is to support a dialogue around research and innovative practices on compassion and healthcare by leading research experts in the field and healthcare leaders who have successfully implemented and fostered compassionate action in healthcare systems including hospitals, hospices and clinics.

Empathy and Compassion in Society Conference, November 13 – 14, 2014

The theme for the 3^rd Empathy and Compassion in Society conference is ‘Compassion at Work.’

During this 3rd Empathy and Compassion in Society conference, world-renowned experts and leaders from neuroscience, education, psychology, technology, health care and the arts will present the latest research and practical tools for cultivating empathic organizations, teams, and societies. This event offers the latest research on compassion, tools to cultivate compassion and empathy, and case studies that show why these methods can help anyone, in any situation or organization.

CEUs will be offered.

The Charter for Compassion Day, November 15, 2014

This is an all-day conference dedicated to the work of the Charter. Highlights will include new approaches to organizing and sustaining city initiatives, the unveiling of a new community building toolbox for city and partners, and keynote speakers focusing on compassion related to the Charters’ sectors (including business, peace, the arts, education and more).

Living Compassionately Retreat, November 15 – 16, 2014

Lastly, this two-day retreat will allow attendees to learn tools and techniques to cultivate compassion and empathy. The first day will be led by Paul Gilbert, Ph.D., a renowned compassion researcher, clinician and the founder of the Compassionate Mind Foundation. Dr. Gilbert developed Compassionate Mind Training (CMT) and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT). The second day will be led by Monica Hanson, CCARE Senior Instructor of the Stanford Compassion Cultivation Training (CCT) Program. She brings years of experience in teaching meditation and has taught compassion to thousands of participants. She has actively participated in developing and training new instructors for the Stanford CCT Program. The retreat will mark the end of the 2014 San Francisco Compassion Week.

For further details and registration, visit http://compassionweeksanfrancisco2014.org/ or the event pages for the Science of Compassion 2014, Compassion & Healthcare Conference, the Empathy and Compassion in Society 2014, Charter for Compassion Day, and the Living Compassionately Retreat.

For media inquiries, please contact us at at ccare_info@stanford.edu.

Amplifiers and Inhibitors of Compassion in Organizations

March 5, 2014 by CCARE Staff

Written by Monica Worline, Ph.D.

CompassionLab’s Monica Worline, Ph.D., presented a summary of CompassionLab to His Holiness the Dalai Lama in a dialogue devoted to the topic of compassion and ethics in business, co-hosted by Santa Clara University and Stanford’s Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education on Feb. 24, 2014.

In his remarks, His Holiness commented that it is part of the human project to advance the idea of compassion beyond simply a felt concern. Compassion is often defined as an affective state through which we respond to the well-being of others. In the dialogue, His Holiness pointed to research that shows that animals respond to the well-being of others in their groups, showing that an orientation toward others’ well-being is fundamental to the evolved biology of social life. But, the expression of compassion in action — especially for others who are far removed from our kin groups or tribes — is something that human beings can nurture by working together.

To read the entire blog post, click here.

Business, Ethics, & Compassion: A Dialogue with the Dalai Lama

January 17, 2014 by CCARE Staff

Stanford, CA – January 17, 2014 – His Holiness the Dalai Lama will visit Santa Clara University campus on Feb. 24, 2014 for a morning event titled “Business, Ethics, & Compassion: A Dialogue with the Dalai Lama.” The event is co-sponsored by the Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education (CCARE) at Stanford University and the Markkula Center for Applied Ethics at Santa Clara University.

“Business continues to have a huge impact on people’s lives both at the individual and society level. We have been blessed that His Holiness, as the founding benefactor of CCARE, returns to the Bay Area to participate in this event which will examine how critical compassion and ethics are in business life,” says CCARE Founder and Director James R. Doty, M.D. “We are fortunate to be able to partner with the Markkula Center for Applied Ethics for the visit.”

Doty will moderate a conversation on commerce, ethics, and compassion with the Dalai Lama and Lloyd Dean, the CEO of San Francisco-based Dignity Health. Dignity Health is the 5^th largest health care system in the U.S. and has been a leader in bringing compassion-centered patient care to the forefront.

“We expect a productive, enlightening, and inspirational examination of these issues,” says Kirk O. Hanson, executive director of SCU’s ethics center. “It will be an opportunity to advance our understanding whether there is room for ethics and compassion in business.”

His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, has visited the United States regularly over the last 30 years, but this will be his first stop at Santa Clara University. The 78-year-old peace advocate has been a tireless advocate of the importance of compassion, ethics and basic human values in society and for the fostering of interreligious dialogue and harmony.

“All human beings are the same. We all want happiness and we do not want suffering. Even people who do not believe in religion recognize the importance of these human values in making their lives happier,” says His Holiness. “It is therefore important for all religious traditions to respect one another and recognize the value of each other’s respective traditions.”

A “Business, Ethics, & Compassion: A Dialogue with the Dalai Lama” will take place at SCU’s Leavey Event Center Feb. 24 at 10 a.m. Tickets go on sale to the public Jan. 28 at 9 a.m. and will be available at scu.edu/dalailama for $130. The event is expected to sell out, but livestreaming will be available at scu.edu/dalailama.

For press pass and media inquiries, please visit:
http://www.scu.edu/ethics-center/events/dalailama/media/

For media inquiries directed at the Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education (CCARE) at Stanford University, please contact:

Emma Seppala, PhD
Associate Director, CCARE
emmas@stanford.edu
(650) 723-3248

Kelly Haehnel
Administrative Associate, CCARE
khaehnel@stanford.edu
(650) 721-6142

Compassion. Bridging Practice and Science

December 18, 2013 by CCARE Staff

Tania Singer of the Max Planck Institute has spearheaded a fantastic new resource for compassion enthusiasts. Compassion researchers and trainers have comp together and produced a free e-book compiling great information on compassion science and education. Some of our CCARE instructors and affiliated scientists have written chapters. You can find all of the materials here, enjoy!

“In July 2011, I was honored to be invited to an innovative meeting in Berlin, Germany, hosted by Neuroscientist Dr. Tania Singer, of the Max Planck Institute, and held in the studio space of artist Olafur Eliasson. The purpose of the meeting was to present and explore different was of measuring compassion from teachers, scientists, contemplatives, and practitioners from various disciplines. Professor Singer originally called this meeting to help her develop ideas for a secularized compassion-training program for her longitudinal neuroscience research. What emerged from this gathering, in addition to a glorious three days of conversation, presentation, practice, was a deep enthusiasm to share what we learned with others in the service of cultivating compassion. In addition to the research and training that resulted from this effort (and much has!), we agreed to collectively produce some kind of document or book to share with other and commemorate the event.

Olafur Eliasson had already started a film about compassion, in which he interviewed many of the participants about compassion, science, contemplative practice, and art called Raising Compassion (http://www.compassion-training.org/?lang=en&page=movie). In addition, we produced a book, but we did not want it to be just another edited volume that people would have to buy, maybe read, and the shelve. Instead, Prof Singer and Matthias Bolz spearheaded an effort to create a dynamic, multimedia offering. The result was the free, multimedia eBook: Compassion. Bridging Practice and Science, Edited by Tania Singer and Matthias Bolz, which includes original that in various waysdescribe existing secular compassion training programs and empirical research as well as the experiences of practitioners. The state-of-the-art layout of the eBook includes video clips and a selection of original sound collages by Nathalie Singer, and artistic images by Olafur Eliasson. It includes chapters by the meeting participants and their colleagues, including CCARE members Thupten Jinpa, Margaret Cullen, Erika Rosenberg, and Leah Weiss-Ekstrom, who offer chapters on compassion training with the Compassion Cultivation Training Program.”

– Erika Rosenberg, Ph.D.

CCARE Compassion Cultivation Teacher and Teacher Trainer

Stanford University Compassion & Technology Conference

November 12, 2013 by CCARE Staff

Stanford center holds technology innovation competition and conference to promote public compassionate action.

Scientists, engineers and social entrepreneurs to convene at Stanford University for discussion and contest on technology designed to enhance compassion.

Stanford, CA – Stanford University’s Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education (CCARE) is holding an inaugural Compassion and Technology conference on Friday, Dec. 6, 2013 that will include talks by research experts and tech industry leaders as well as presentations by innovators in compassion-focused technology who will be competing for cash awards and the opportunity to meet the Dalai Lama during his 2014 visit to the Bay Area. The conference is co-sponsored by Facebook, 1440 Foundation, HopeLab and The Dalai Lama Foundation.

The conference’s purpose is to support a dialogue around innovative practices on compassion and technology. Expert researchers and technology leaders who have successfully implemented and fostered compassionate action through the use of technological advancements will present.

The Compassion and Technology Contest calls for innovators, engineers and designers to present a technology design or product that will help people learn, practice or improve qualities of compassion, empathy, social connectedness or altruism. Invited finalists are to present their ideas at the Compassion and Technology Conference before the audience and a panel of judges. Tech industry professionals who will be among the speakers and judges at the conference include Facebook’s Arturo Bejar, Google’s Chade-Meng Tan, Juniper Network’s Scott Kriens, Kiva’s Premal Shah, Wisdom 2.0’s Soren Gordhamer and HopeLab’sJanxin Leu and Fred Dillon. Among the academic speakers will be the CompassionLab’s Monica Worline, the University of Michigan’s Sara Konrath, Sasha Barab from the University of Arizona, Constance Steinkuehler from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Stephen Porges from the University of Illinois, Chicago, andStanford University’s Daniel Martin and Emma Seppala. In addition, there will be a live performance by MC Yogi, an American hip hop musician whose music embodies messages of compassion, service and wisdom.

Compassion is defined as the emotional response to perceiving suffering and involves an authentic desire to help. It is a virtue that is promoted across cultures and religions. A growing body of evidence suggests that compassion is a natural and automatic response that has ensured our survival and that has benefits for psychological and physical health as well as longevity and flourishing.

“While compassion is a fundamental part of every religious tradition, there is an ever enlarging body of scientific evidence that technological advancements have an immense positive impact in terms of increasing compassion and altruistic behavior on both the community level and the individual level,” said Dr. James Doty, founder and director of CCARE. “This conference will highlight these aspects from a technological aspect as well as a scientific aspect in an effort to promote awareness and progress, and reward those who are working towards these goals. We at CCARE are very excited to initiate and sponsor the conference and contribute to this expanding field.”

Preceding the conference on Dec. 5 at Facebook headquarters will be Facebook’s Compassion Research Day, a bi-annual event about the ways in which Facebook encourages compassionate interactions on its social media platform. Facebook engineers and collaborative research scientists including CCARE Associate Director Emma Seppala will be presenting. This event is open to the press and free of charge. Information can be found at https://www.facebook.com/events/230652223766114 .

For detailed information on the conference and contest registration, visit the event webpage at http://ccare.stanford.edu/event-registration/?ee=98. For media inquiries, please contact Emma Seppala at emmas@stanford.edu, (650) 723-3248.

What Makes a Hero: The Surprising Science of Selflessness

September 16, 2013 by CCARE Staff

What Makes a Hero: The Surprising Science of Selflessness by Elizabeth Svoboda highlights much of the scientific research and education conducted by CCARE. The book discusses the intersecting influences of biology, upbringing and external influences to produce altruistic and heroic behavior, and how to encourage this behavior in corporations, classrooms and individuals.

Purchase on Amazon.com here.

Even in Business, a Little Forgiveness Can Go a Long Way

March 15, 2013 by CCARE Staff

It’s difficult to avoid conflict at work. Sure, we can try to prevent conflict in the first place, but with so many different personalities, working styles, and stress-inducing responsibilities, the employee that never experiences conflict is more likely to be the exception than the rule. When conflict sneaks its way into our relationships at work, what can we do to make sure things don’t get out of hand

Our first instinct is often to avoid or even take revenge against the people that hurt us. But there are many challenges and limitations to acting on these instincts. It isn’t always easy to avoid someone you work with, especially if that person is higher in the chain of command than you. We often think of revenge as cathartic, but research suggests this usually isn’t the case. “Venting” is more likely to make us feel worse than better. Forgiveness, on the other hand, can make victims feel better and restore essential relationships in the process.

When management consultant Michael Stone interviewed executives across the United States to elicit their opinions about forgiveness at work, he found that it often brought up a sense of fear. Fear of losing control, fear of losing trust, fear of losing power. But how do these fears match up with what we really know about the science of forgiveness?

To read the entire blog post, click here.

The Compassionate Instinct

August 31, 2011 by CCARE Staff

The Dalai Lama has been telling us for years that it would make us happy, but he never said it would make us healthy, too.

“If you want others to be happy,” reads the first part of his famous formula, “practice compassion.” Then comes the second part of the prescription: “If you want to be happy, practice compassion.”

Maybe the Dalai Lama knew all along or maybe he’s just finding out like the rest of us, but science is starting to catch up with a couple millennia of Buddhist thought. In recent years, the investigation of compassion has moved beyond theology and philosophy to embrace a wide range of scientific fields, including neurology, endocrinology and immunology. And while the benefits of being the recipient of compassion are obvious, new research shows that the practice of compassion has beneficial effects not only on mental health but on physical health, too.

Which is good news for everyone on the planet, as you can never have too much compassion. Job layoffs and home foreclosures, the cultural erasure of Tibet and the abscess that is Gaza, the sorrows of disease, natural disasters and death that are always with us: To create a short list makes one guilty of omission. Despite all the progress and advances we have made, there is still plenty about which to feel compassion.

James R. Doty, M.D. to Participate in Unique National Forum Around 10th Anniversary Innovative Program Explores Ways to Break “Conflict Gridlock” to Create Peace

August 25, 2011 by CCARE Staff

On Sept. 8th and 9th, a diverse group of some of the nations leading thinkers from science, religion, arts, and business, will gather in N.Y. around the 10th anniversary of 9-11 to reflect on a new way forward, by sharing their wisdom through traditional stories both sacred and secular, and scientific discovery, to develop a shared narrative to help reweave the fabric of our society.

To highlight the gathering, a unique public program, Searching for Answers and Wisdom in a Post-9/11 World, will be held will be held at 8:15 to 9:30 p.m., Sept. 8th, 2011, at the 92nd Street Y in NYC. Moderated by Emmy Award winner Arthur R. Miller, and based on the Fred Friendly seminars engaging the audience. The event will include such panelists as: Dr. Stuart A. Kaufman, a MacArthur Prize winner and author of Reinventing the Sacred; Prof. R. Gustav Niebuhr, Dir. of the Religion and Society Program at Syracuse Univ. and former New York Times correspondent; Dr. Naresh Singh, world’s leading authority and advocate for Sustainable Livelihoods for the poor; Asma Uddin, prominent attorney and founder and editor-in-chief of altmuslimah.com; Diane Schenandoah, a renowned Native American artist; and Iya Amiebelle Olatunji, African American Matriarch and mentor.

For more information and a complete list of panelists go to http://www.wisdomthinkers.org.

Watch the TEDxGoldenGateED COMPASSION Conference LIVE

June 10, 2011 by CCARE Staff

You’re invited to watch the live webcast of TEDxGoldenGateED on Saturday, June 11th from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Pacific Daylight Time (PDT) in the United States. An incredibly diverse and impressive field of speakers will tell us about the new science of compassion. We’ll also see how compassion helps transform schools and communities.

To watch the webcast, click here.

CCARE Staff

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