Biography
Early Life
Cheryl A. Giles is an accomplished author and professor in Buddhism, pastoral care, and clinical psychology.
She was born and raised in New Haven, Connecticut. Her journey is deeply influenced by her mother.
Her mother struggled with long-lasting depression from untreated childhood trauma.
Giles attended Baldwin Elementary School in New Haven, and later St. Martin De Porres. But she was baptized and confirmed when she attended an all-girls Catholic School.
Giles holds a Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology from William James College, a Bachelor of Arts with honors in Theology and Philosophy from Boston College, and an M.Div. in Pastoral Care and Counseling from Harvard Divinity School.
Harvard Divinity School and Buddhist Engagement
Currently, Giles is a Senior Lecturer at Harvard Divinity School. She focuses on Pastoral Care and Counseling.
Her role involves teaching courses in spiritual care, trauma resilience, and compassionate end-of-life care. Her background is in psychology and dedication to spiritual well-being.
Giles is an active member of the Natural Dharma Fellowship. This highlights her commitment to meditative practices.
She also plays a vital role in the Buddhist Ministry Initiative and serves on the board of directors at the Barre Center for Buddhist Studies.
Authorship and Impactful Contributions
Co-editor of the influential 2012 book, The Arts of Contemplative Care: Pioneering Voices in Buddhist Chaplaincy and Pastoral Work, Giles brings together diverse voices from various Buddhist traditions. She examines the practice of contemplative care in settings like hospital chaplaincy and prison ministry.
Her second book, Black and Buddhist: What Buddhism Can Teach Us About Race, explores the intersection of identity and spirituality.
Cheryl A. Giles embodies the Black Buddhist experience. She sheds light on the transformative power of Buddhist teachings in navigating the complexities of racial discrimination.
Giles empowers individuals facing such challenges and enriches the broader Dharma community with her unique perspective. Her work is a significant milestone in shaping the evolution of Dharma in the Western world.
Giles speaks widely and frequently assumes the role of conference chair, focusing on topics encompassing Buddhism, pastoral care, and clinical psychology.
Her extensive expertise and research position her as a respected authority in these academic domains.
