Toronto, Canada – In a landmark move for Buddhist education, the Buddhist Association of Canada has pledged $3 million to Emmanuel College to establish the Wutai Shan Venerable Dayi Professorship in Buddhist Spiritual Care. This significant donation marks a new chapter in the promotion of Buddhist teachings and spiritual care within the academic and broader community.
Earlier this year, the Buddhist College of Canada, in partnership with Emmanuel College, launched a highly successful Continuing Education Program, receiving positive feedback from students and faculty alike. Building on this momentum, the newly established professorship will support the integration of Buddhist principles with therapeutic practices, focusing on spiritual well-being and compassionate care.
Emmanuel College Principal HyeRan Kim-Cragg
Venerable Dayi, Abbot of Wutai Shan in Canada
The Wutai Shan Venerable Dayi Professorship will be held by a scholar with both academic and practical experience in Buddhist spiritual care. This individual will guide students in the Master of Psychospiritual Studies (MPS) program, preparing them for careers in chaplaincy and counseling.
Dr. Songxiong Shao
Although there remains a large funding gap in the construction of the Wutai Shan Buddhist Garden, the Buddhist Association of Canada firmly believes that advancing Buddhist education is of paramount importance. The professorship aims to foster peace, non-violence, and compassion, aligning Buddhist values with those of other faiths to promote interfaith dialogue and sustainable development.
“This professorship embodies the core of Buddhist wisdom and spiritual care, offering new opportunities to mentor the next generation of spiritual leaders,” a spokesperson for the Buddhist Association said. “We hope it will inspire the community and allow the wisdom of Buddhism to flourish.”
The partnership between Emmanuel College and the Buddhist College of Canada continues to grow, reflecting a shared commitment to inclusive care practices and spiritual education. This professorship represents a significant step forward in the academic study of Buddhism in Canada.
From Easy Media: Janet & Xu Jia (Journalist Reporting)