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Who We Are:
Teachers and Board of Directors

Gregory Maloof

Guiding Teacher, Board President

Gregory Maloof is an authorized Buddhist Dharma teacher in the lineage of Ruth Denison and a mindfulness-based therapist with a bachelor’s degree in Western philosophy and is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s degree in Marriage, Couples and Family counseling.  Gregory draws inspiration from both Western and Eastern paradigms in his approach to understanding and sharing the Dharma and his teachings are informed by over 28 years of meditation experience. Gregory has studied in the traditions of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, U Ba Khin and Ven. Pa Auk Sayadaw and has also been heavily influenced and inspired by various teachers in the Thai Forest Tradition, particularly Thanissaro Bhikkhu. Gregory’s humorous, compassionate, and practical style supports students to experience significant healing and lasting change.  

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Molly Bailen

Co-Founder, Board Treasurer

Molly has nearly two decades of experience working in non-profit organizations, which includes professional work for multiple Buddhist sanghas. With a background in marketing, social media management, website building, and writing, Molly serves the Wise Spirit sangha as both a board officer and assists with many of the financial, operational, and communication needs of the community. She has had a meditation practice since 2002. The Thai Forest Tradition, Soto Zen, and Burmese lineage of Sayagyi U Ba Khin are primary influences in her study and practice.

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Doyle Banks

Board Secretary, Co-Founder

Doyle Banks is an authorized teacher in the Ruth Denison lineage, he formerly taught the Dhamma at Wise Spirit and retired from teaching in June 2025. A professional transformation trainer and coach, Doyle has a substantial foundation of Nonviolent Communication training. He has facilitated communication trainings for groups in the workplace as well as for Buddhist groups on how to successfully use NVC as a framework for wise speech and building healthy interpersonal relationships. In his spare time, Doyle is an avid and voracious reader and a musician.

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Donate to the Community

Wise Spirit Buddhist Community is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit as of January 14, 2025. Tax ID: 33-3514929

Contact

EMAIL US

info@wisespirit.org

PRACTICE WITH US

Portland Dhamma Center

1404 SE 25th Ave.

Portland, OR 97214

© 2025 by Wise Spirit Buddhist Community 

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