All Articles: Academics

Group of students walking during a trip

The Bakken Center’s yoga focus area originally grew out of a combined endeavor with academic courses that are now part of the Center’s Tibetan Healing Initiative (THI). As the course offerings in both areas expanded, they each split into unique focus areas with separate content offerings and experiences.

Northrup building on the UMN campus with a green lawn in front

Ranging in ages from 22 to 67, the new cohort of future health coaches includes a decorated military veteran, an experienced nurse, and a marketing pro – all of whom were drawn to the program by a desire to help others define and lead a healthier life.

Gary Smaby profile

Gary Smaby carries the mantle of his mother’s endowed gift with pride, purpose, and a clear devotion to sustaining her legacy through the Earl E. Bakken Center for Spirituality & Healing.

Person in scrubs working on a course

Bakken Center Innovations Meet Evolving Needs in Health Education

Health Coaching Incoming Students

Two decades ago, the Bakken Center launched one of the nation’s first health coaching programs at an academic institution. This fall, a new cohort of future leaders brings richly varied perspectives and experience that will assist in better serving a diverse population.

megan voss smiling at camera

Bakken Center Director of Education Dr. Megan Voss is leading the revolution at the intersection of education and healthcare.

An artistic placeholder image with flowers and a maze logo symbolizing a fingerprint in U of M branded colors

A new Bakken Center course leads students into an exploration of mortality and wellbeing at the end of life.

a purpose map as explained in the article, a full page of words and images

A Course of Self-Discovery

"change agents" surrounded by maroon and gold geometric design

These Health Coaching students are poised to transform healthcare and patient wellbeing.

illustration of a hand holding a phone

Today, social media functions as a sort of virtual Swiss Army knife—a tool with many purposes adapted to society’s needs.