IBS Expands Roles of Two Teachers

The Institute of Buddhist Studies (IBS) is expanding the roles of two of its talented scholars and teachers. 

Dr. Lilu Chen, the Institute of Buddhist Studies (IBS) Field Education Director, has been appointed to the Core Faculty beginning Feb. 1.

In addition to her current responsibilities, Dr. Chen will be better able to support our students as an academic advisor, continue her own research, and over time may be able to teach courses beyond the required field education courses, according to the IBS.

“I feel grateful and honored to be joining the Core Faculty,” Dr. Chen said. “I look forward to working more closely with students as an academic advisor and having a bigger voice in shaping IBS’ future.”

Dr. Chen joined IBS in 2023, when she was hired to be the Field Education Director. Field Education is a required component of most master of divinity programs. 

Field Education can be completed at a Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) site such as a hospital, as well as in volunteer settings such as a Buddhist temple, prisons or nonprofits. Students can also propose their own sites. 

Dr. Chen has been instrumental in growing the IBS Field Education Department as well as nourishing the chaplaincy and master of divinity programs.

In addition, the IBS hired Dr. Courtney Bruntz as the new Director of Assessment and Accreditation. 

Dr. Bruntz performs crucial data collection, institutional report writing and communication with accreditation boards like the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), an essential function for any college or graduate school. 

Her work in accreditation is also important for IBS to be able to continue and expand its popular online programs.

Dr. Bruntz will continue her role as Professor. She hopes to teach courses on Chinese Buddhism next year. 

“I’m looking forward to supporting and advising IBS students,” she said. “To continue the accreditation work that has been put into place, to teach our incredible students, and to add to the vibrancy of the faculty, institution and community.”

Dr. Bruntz graduated with a Ph.D. from the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, California, in 2014. She specializes in contemporary rituals and practices of East Asian Buddhist traditions.