What Is CALM Studies?

CALM Studies

Founded in 2012 by TCU Religion Professor Andy Fort, the CALM Studies initiative seeks to support TCU's welcoming campus culture and enhancement of the student experience by fostering self-growth, community belonging, personal insight, as well as meaning and purpose.

Our vision is rooted in the understanding that flourishing arises not merely from achievement or success, but through the cultivation of enduring human values.

Simply put, mindfulness is the practice of actively cultivating a gentle awareness of one’s mental, emotional, and physical environments. Major companies like Aetna, Google, Apple, and others have embraced these practices to help employees deal with stress, increase work-life satisfaction, and become more effective in their occupations, whether they work as marketing directors, attorneys, nurses, engineers, or in other positions.

Through courses, programs, and partnerships, the initiative promotes a holistic approach to education that nurtures spaces where students, faculty, staff, and community members can grow, reflect, and learn to live well together.

Faculty & Staff

Dave Aftandilian

Associate Professor of Anthropology

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Giri Akkaraju

Professor of Biology

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Ariane Balizet

Professor of English
Associate Dean for Faculty and DEI

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Muriel Cormican

Associate Dean of Undergraduate Students
Professor of German

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Mark Dennis

Professor of East Asian Religions
Director of CALM Studies

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Chuck Dunning

CALM Convos Coach, Consultant

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Andy Fort

Professor of Asian Religions
Founder of CALM Studies

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Sharon Gooding

Director of the Office of Institutional Equality

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Blake Hestir

Professor of Philosophy
Associate Director of CALM Studies

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Lydia Mackay

Assistant Professor of Performance in Theater

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Ulrika Shragge

CALM Studies Coordinator

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Jane Torgerson, MD

Doctor of Medicine

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