Kirsten Liegmann: Director of Operations

“The changes and challenges we are currently facing are unprecedented. It is to the Earth and the emergence of a new humanity that I dedicate my service.”

Kirsten Liegmann is Gaia University’s Director of Operations, but as she puts it, “Titles don’t really give the whole picture.” Due to the organic nature of Gaia U’s organizing structure, it’s often difficult to put a finger (or a title) on the multifaceted roles of those behind the scenes. Kirsten’s main focus has been the design and development of the University’s operational systems, but that is only one aspect of her work. She also communicates regularly with applicants, associates and advisors; assists in the development of regional centers; and oversees the organization’s accounting and financial analysis.

Kirsten began her work with Gaia U after meeting its Co-founders, Andrew Langford and Liora Adler, in 2007. She was deeply inspired by their vision of an educational experience that offers its ‘associates’ a uniquely balanced integration of freedom and structured support:

“Gaia U offers the structure and advising support within which people with great ideas can experience their own creative liberation. While there is a high standard of quality assurance, in Gaia U you’re not limited by someone else’s idea of how you should be doing your work…it opens up a lot more freedom.”

Kirsten has combined her interests in sustainability and business throughout her professional career. After earning a BS in Business with a minor in Environmental Studies from Santa Clara University, she went on to get an MBA in Sustainable Management from the Presidio School of Management in 2006.

In 1994, Kirsten co-founded Soma Ergonomics Inc., a company that produces ergonomic chairs. She worked with the company for seven years, during which time she spent three years as CEO and President. During the same period, she also sat on the board of the Peninsula Conservation Center Foundation, an environmental organization located in Palo Alto, CA.

In 2002, Kirsten moved to Ashland, Oregon, where she became involved in the core development of the group, In My Village (IMV). IMV (now the Heart Circle Network) was created by the sculptor and social artist Tej Steiner with the mission of helping people to ‘awaken’ in consciousness and to be in a heart–centered group with trusted friends.

In addition to her work with Gaia U, Kirsten currently works as an Operational & Sustainable Systems Design Consultant and Coach for several organizations. She is president of the Foundation for a New Humanity (FFH), founded by her partner, Rennie Davis. FFH provides training and support to individuals, organizations and communities in service of both their personal and collective transformation. Kirsten co-facilitates workshops and mentors students enrolled in Foundation programs.

“I feel deep gratitude that I am here, right now, in this time of massive change, with the skills to make a difference – aware enough to make the choice to do so – and with a deep sense of commitment, purpose and passion.”