Featured Past Events | David Lynch Foundation

Meditate America Benefit Celebration

Thursday, December 3, 2020 | Virtual

Meditate America

Women of Vision Awards 2019

Tuesday, December 3, 2019 | 583 Park Avenue | Manhattan

Change Begins Within

Katy Perry

Friday, October 11, 2019 | The Anthem | DC

Change Begins Within

Change Begins Within:
14th Annual DLF Benefits & Award Dinner

Monday, December 10, 2018 | The Plaza | 768 5th Avenue, New York City

Change Begins Within

Silence the Violence

Town Hall | October 4 | Washington, DC

Silence the Violence

2nd Annual DLF Women of Vision

Tuesday, May 8, 2018 | 11:30am – 2:30pm | 583 Park Avenue, Manhattan

Women of Vision

A New Science for Peace:
Research on Meditation, the Brain, Trauma, and Peace

Tuesday, December 5th, 2017
American University
Washington, D.C.

Explore the impact of forty years of published research and clinical applications of the evidence-based Transcendental Meditation (TM) technique on improving health and reducing the symptoms of post-traumatic stress (PTS) among combat veterans, urban youth, and women survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Data will also be presented on the findings of TM reducing trauma, crime, and violence in society as a whole.

Click here to see the live stream of the event.

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Change Begins Within:
Healing the Hidden Wounds of War

Wednesday, October 18, 2017
The Plaza
New York City
768 5th Avenue, New York

The David Lynch Foundation’s annual benefit dinner and gala honored General (ret.) Stephen Rippe with the DLF 2017 Resilient Warrior Award. The evening featured musical entertainment from Grammy-award winning violinist, Miri Ben-Ari and a conversation with Tom Hanks and Mary-Louise Parker on the benefits and impact of Transcendental Meditation.

Proceeds from the event helped support the David Lynch Foundation’s Resilient Warrior program to bring TM to veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress and their families.

Click here if you would like to donate

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Festival of Disruption

The Theatre at Ace Hotel
Los Angeles

David Lynch's Festival of Disruption is an exciting music/art/film festival to be held at the Ace Hotel in Los Angeles, on October 14th and 15th. The Festival takes its name from David’s favorite quote attributed to Maharishi Mahesh Yogi who said, “life is a festival of disruption”. This year's Festival featured music by Bon Iver, The Kills, TV On The Radio, Laura Marling, Sharon Van Etten, Reggie Watts, and Rebekah Del Rio; talks with David Lynch, Ed Ruscha, Sheryl Lee, and more; and meditations led by Bob Roth with Bill Hader and Pete Holmes.

Click here for an event recap

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NATIONAL NIGHT OF LAUGHTER AND SONG

Monday, June 5, 2017
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Concert Hall
Washington, D.C.
58 East 68th Street, New York City

A benefit concert hosted by Hugh Jackman, Deborra-lee Furness and Katie Couric, the National Night of Laughter and Song featured performances by comedians Jerry Seinfeld, Jay Leno, and Margaret Cho and music by Ben Folds, Kesha, and Angelique Kidjo.

Proceeds helped DLF's Center for Health and Wellness bring the evidence-based Transcendental Meditation technique to 10,000 at-risk youth and veterans in Washington, D.C., helping heal the trauma and toxic stress which all too often grips their lives.

Click here for an event recap.

The David Lynch Foundation was pleased to honor exemplary men and women for their lifetime of dedication and service at this event. Congratulations to 2017 David Lynch Foundation Lifetime in Service Award recipients Rona Abramson, Jeffrey Abramson, Joni Kimberlin, Kevin Kimberlin, Dr. Norman E. Rosenthal, Dr. George H. Rutherford II, Candy Crowley, and Patricia Harrison.

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WOMEN OF VISION: 2017 Humanitarian and Courage Awards Luncheon

Tuesday, May 9, 2017
583 Park Avenue, Manhattan

The David Lynch Foundation's 2017 Humanitarian and Courage Awards luncheon, hosted by Rosanna Scotto, honored four extraordinary Women of Vision with the David Lynch Foundation 2017 Humanitarian Award. Congratulations Gisele Bündchen, Joni Kimberlin, Carolyn Rafaelian, and Robin Roberts and thank you for your dedication and service. DLF also presented the Courage Award to the amazing LaToya Mack, who touched our hearts and deepened our understanding.

Proceeds from the 2017 Humanitarian and Courage Awards benefit the DLF Center for Women’s Health and Wellness, which teaches Transcendental Meditation to women and girls who are survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.

Click here for an event recap.

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Town Hall
MEDITATION FOR LEADERS

Tuesday, February 28, 2017
6 PM Reception • 7 PM Discussion
Harold Pratt House
58 East 68th Street, New York City

This forum for leaders highlighted the extensive personal and professional benefits - and cutting-edge scientific research - on the evidence-based Transcendental Meditation technique for reducing stress, fatigue, and anxiety, and for enhancing creative thinking, focus, and job performance.

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    Dennis Goodman, MD, Suzanne Steinbaum, MD, and Hooman Yaghoobzadeh, MD, discuss the many positive health benefits of Transcendental Meditation with Bob Roth, CEO of the David Lynch Foundation, at the Town Hall on Meditation for Leaders.

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    Perri Peltz, award-winning HBO filmmaker and moderator for the evening, engages the panel on how Transcendental Meditation enhances creativity and innovation. From left to right: Norman Rosenthal, MD, Orin Snyder, Partner, Gibson Dunn & Crutcher, Mitch Horowitz, Vice President and Executive Editor, Penguin Random House, and Bob Roth, CEO of the David Lynch Foundation.

Exploring the Science of Meditation on Trauma, Stress, and the Brain

Thursday, December 8, 2016
Lunch: 11:30 AM to 1 PM • Program: 1 to 3 PM
United States Institute of Peace

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CNN's Candy Crowley, Dr. Norman Rosenthal, TM expert Bob Roth, and leaders in addiction, health, veterans, and education, explored the 40 years of research and clinical applications - and paths forward - on the use of Transcendental Meditation for reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. The event was an important step in the development of the new initiatives we are launching in Washington, D.C.

Interested in learning more about our events in DC? Contant kathleen@davidlynchfoundation.org

Change Begins Within: A Gala Dinner and Conversation

Wednesday, November 16, 2016, 6pm |
Powerhouse at the American Museum of Natural History

  • Michael J. FoxMichael J. Fox
  • Arianna HuffingtonArianna Huffington
  • Brian Koppelman and David LevienBrian Koppelman and David Levien
  • Matt ButlerMatt Butler

Bob Roth, CEO of the David Lynch Foundation, presented Michael J. Fox and Arianna Huffington with the Global Health Award for their work to transform the health and well-being of people worldwide during DLF's Fall benefit gala on November 16 at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. Since 2000, the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research has provided over $600 million to help find a cure for Parkinson’s Disease. Ms. Huffington has launched “Thrive Global,” a corporate and consumer well-being and productivity platform with the mission of "changing the way we work and live by ending the collective delusion that burnout is the price we must pay for success.” Both Mr. Fox and Ms. Huffington practice TM.

The benefit raised over $700,000 to bring Transcendental Meditation to children and adults who suffer from toxic stress and trauma.

The event also featured:

  • Conversations with renowned neuroscientist Tony Nader, MD, PhD, who oversees the international TM organization, on how meditation impacts the brain and the body, and with Brian Koppelman and David Levien, the creators of Showtime’s hit “Billions,” on TM and creativity.
  • Meditating students from the Bronx High School for Law and Community Service and the Brooklyn Urban Garden Charter School, who spoke eloquently about the healing impact of the meditation-based Quiet Time program in their schools.
  • Performance of the beautiful, haunting original music of singer/songwriter Matt Butler.

David Lynch's Festival of Disruption

October 8th & October 9th | Ace Hotel, 929 South Broadway, Los Angeles, CA

Festival of Disruption

SOLD OUT
David Lynch's Festival of Disruption is an exciting new music/art/film festival to be held at the Ace Hotel in Los Angeles, on October 8th and 9th. The Festival takes its name from David’s favorite quote attributed to Maharishi Mahesh Yogi who said, “life is a festival of disruption”. David is bringing this quote to life by creating a mysterious and beautiful world for featuring performances and talks by iconic artists, including Robert Plant, Mel Brooks, Frank Gehry, Questlove, St. Vincent, Blondie's Debbie Harry, Kyle MacLachan, Laura Dern, Music from Twin Peaks by Angelo Badalamenti and more.

For information, please contact Info@festivalofdirsuption.com

To learn more about the Festival of Disruption click here

DLF in the Hamptons

July 1st – September 10th | Bridgehampton

Hamptons

The David Lynch Foundation is back in Bridgehampton July 1st through September 10th! Join us for:

  • TM Courses:
    If you, a friend or a family member are interested in learning to meditate, please contact us for a schedule of introductory talks and TM courses.
  • TM Refreshers:
    This summer is a great time for an individualized or group meditation refresher for your TM practice. Contact us to set an appointment that works best for you.

Donovan's 50th Anniversary “Sunshine Superman” North American Tour

Tuesday, August 30th, 7:30pm | Guild Hall, 158 Main St, East Hampton, NY

Donovan

DONOVAN TEAMS UP WITH DAVID LYNCH TO SUPPORT MEDITATION FOR CHILDREN
Donovan, ‘60s legend, icon, poet and one of the world’s most enduring singer songwriters has teamed up with the David Lynch Foundation for his 50th Anniversary North American Tour. Donovan's 21-city tour will launch with a benefit concert on Tuesday, August 30, in the East Hamptons, at Guild Hall. A percentage of the proceeds from the tour will support the “Donovan Children’s Fund”–a division of the David Lynch Foundation—which will help bring Transcendental Meditation to tens of thousands of at-risk students in underserved schools throughout the United States.

Energy, Focus, Peace: The Power of Meditation – A Conversation with Bob Roth

Thursday, August 4th, 6:30pm | Southampton Arts Center, 25 Jobs Lane, Southampton, NY

Bob Roth

An introduction to the science-based Transcendental Meditation technique with Bob Roth, 40-year TM teacher and Chief Executive Officer of the David Lynch Foundation.

An Amazing Night of Comedy

Saturday, April 30, 2016 | New York City Center

  • Gilbert GottfriedGilbert Gottfried
  • Jim GaffiganJim Gaffigan
  • Vanessa BayerVanessa Bayer

This incredible evening of comedy featured stand-up performances from Louis C.K., Jim Gaffigan, Gilbert Gottfried and Vanessa Bayer. All proceeds benefitted America's veterans with PTS. Read more here

NATIONAL SUMMIT
Recovery, Meditation & the Brain

Friday, April 29, 2016 | The Paley Center for Media

  • Jennifer AshtonJennifer Ashton
  • Elisabeth VargasElisabeth Vargas

This summit for leaders in the field of addiction and recovery highlighted 40 years of research and clinical applications in the use of TRANSCENDENTAL MEDITATION for reducing stress, anxiety and depression while providing key support in the fight against addiction. The luncheon featured presentation from:

  • Jennifer Ashton, MD, Co-host of ABC's Emmy Award-winning talk show, The Doctors
  • Elizabeth Vargas, anchor, ABC's 20/20
  • Peter Dodge, Founder, Board Chair, and President, Peter G. Dodge Foundation
  • Cindy Feinberg, President, The Recovery Coach NY
  • Richard Friedman, MD, Director of the Psychopharmacology Clinic, Weill Cornell Medical College
  • Jan Gryczynski, PhD, Senior Research Scientist, Friends Research Institute
  • Robert Miller, Board Chair, Freedom Institute
  • Norman Rosenthal, MD, Clinical Professor of Psychiatry, Georgetown University Medical Center

Chicago Education Forum

Wednesday, March 23, 2016 | Chicago

  • Candy CrowleyCandy Crowley
  • Norman RosenthalNorman Rosenthal, MD
  • William StixrudWilliam Stixrud, PhD

The epidemic of trauma and toxic stress is destructive to Chicago’s urban youth – damaging brain and cognitive development, fueling substance abuse and violent behavior, and undermining the best efforts to raise performance and promote a healthy, productive lifestyle. This educational forum explored the growing use of a simple, evidence-based meditation technique in schools nationwide for improving grades, test scores, and graduation rates and reducing suspensions, expulsions, dropouts, and violence. Speakers included:

  • Candy Crowley, Award-winning journalist and fellow in-residence at Harvard University’s Institute of Politics
  • Norman Rosenthal, MD, Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Georgetown University and nationally-renowned medical researcher
  • William Stixrud, PhD, leading clinical neuropsychologist and director of The Stixrud Group
  • Anna Pavichevich, Principal, Amundsen High School
  • Nakish Hobbs, Principal & Co-Founder, Village Leadership Academy
  • John Wolf, Senior Program Manager, University of Chicago Crime Lab and Urban Education Lab
  • Asheika Butler, Family and Senior Care Specialist

Watch the highlights

Watch the full forum proceedings

Change Begins Within 2015

Wednesday, November 4, 2015 | Carnegie Hall, New York City

  • Katy PerryKaty Perry
  • StingSting
  • Jerry SeinfeldJerry Seinfeld
  • Jim JamesJim James
  • Angélique KidjoAngélique Kidjo
  • Sharon IsbinSharon Isbin
  • David LynchDavid Lynch
  • George StephanopoulosGeorge Stephanopoulos

The David Lynch Foundation celebrated its 10th Anniversary and Annual "Change Begins Within 2015" benefit concert and gala on November 4th at Carnegie Hall. The unforgettable evening's music was directed by Rob Mathes and featured performances by:

  • Katy Perry
  • Sting
  • Jerry Seinfeld
  • Jim James
  • Angélique Kidjo
  • Sharon Isbin
  • and more

The evening was hosted by:

  • George Stephanopoulos

All proceeds will be donated to fund DLF's "MEDITATE NEW YORK" initiative, whose mission is to provide Transcendental Meditation instruction to 10,000 at-risk New Yorkers at no cost.

Read about the event on Rolling Stone

Read about the event on Billboard

Women in the Media who Meditate

Thursday, April 16, 2015 | New York City

  • Arianna HuffingtonArianna Huffington
  • Patricia HarrisonPatricia Harrison
  • Robin RobertsRobin Roberts
  • Cynthia McFaddenCynthia McFadden
  • Jennifer Ashton, M.D.Jennifer Ashton, M.D.
  • Suzanne Steinbaum, M.D.Suzanne Steinbaum, M.D.
  • Lesley SeymourLesley Seymour
  • Perri PeltzPerri Peltz

Thousands of women professionals in New York City are enjoying the benefits of the easy-to-learn, evidence-based Transcendental Meditation (TM) technique for overcoming stress, improving performance, and enhancing work-life balance in their lives. This Business Luncheon Roundtable provided an in-depth introduction to the TM technique from eight extraordinary women in the media who meditate, including:

  • Arianna Huffington, Chair, President, Editor-in-Chief, Huffington Post Media Group
  • Patricia Harrison, President and CEO, Corporation for Public Broadcasting
  • Robin Roberts, Anchor, ABC’s Good Morning America
  • Cynthia McFadden, Senior Legal and Investigative Correspondent, NBC News
  • Dr. Jennifer Ashton, OB/GYN; Senior Medical Contributor, ABC News
  • Dr. Suzanne Steinbaum, Lenox Hill Hospital heart specialist; Host, “Focus on Health”
  • Lesley Seymour, Editor-in-Chief, More magazine
  • Perri Peltz, Filmmaker and director; Round Table Moderator

All proceeds were donated to fund the TM technique to women and girls in New York City who are survivors of violence and abuse.

Watch the Highlights Here

Celebrating the 60th Anniversary of HOWL

Tuesday, April 7, 2015 | Los Angeles

  • ginsberg

To celebrate the 60th Anniversary of Allen Ginsberg's HOWL, the David Lynch Foundation organized an incredible night of music and comedy, produced by Hal Willner, at the Theater at Ace Hotel in Los Angeles, featuring performances by:

  • Terry Adams (NRBQ)
  • Sam Amidon
  • The Americans
  • Devandra Banhart
  • Nick Cave
  • Kevin Drew
  • Nick Forte
  • Macy Gray
  • Petra Haden
  • Andy Kim
  • Courtney Love
  • Eric Mingus
  • John Mulaney
  • Ken Nordine
  • Beth Orton
  • Van Dyke Parks
  • Chris Parnell
  • Amy Poehler
  • Tim Robbins
  • Lori Singer
  • The Section Quartet
  • Chloe Webb
  • Steve Weisberg
  • Lucinda Williams
  • Mocean Worker
  • plus surprise guests!

All proceeds from the evening benefit the work of the David Lynch Foundation to bring Transcendental Meditation to adults and children who suffer from the effects of trauma and toxic stress.

To learn more about the David Lynch Foundation click here

THE MUSIC OF DAVID LYNCH

Wednesday, April 1, 2015 | Los Angeles

  • Angelo BadalamentiAngelo Badalamenti
  • Chrysta BellChrysta Bell
  • DonovanDonovan
  • Duran DuranDuran Duran
  • Jim JamesJim James
  • Julee CruiseJulee Cruise
  • Karen OKaren O
  • Kinny LandrumKinny Landrum
  • MobyMoby
  • Rebekah Del RioRebekah Del Rio
  • Rob MathesRob Mathes, Musical Director
  • Sky FerreiraSky Ferreira
  • TennisTennis
  • Twin PeaksTwin Peaks
  • Wayne Coyne & Steved Drozd of The Flaming LipsWayne Coyne & Steved Drozd of The Flaming Lips
  •  
  • Zola JesusZola Jesus

Be it the synthesized echo of the Twin Peaks theme song, the Angelo Badalamenti score to Blue Velvet or Mulholland Drive's "Llorando," David Lynch deploys music in his work to stirring effect, creating layers of meanings in a sequence of melancholic minor chords or startled key changes. On April 1, the David Lynch Foundation celebrated its 10th Anniversary with The Music of David Lynch, an exploration of the director's use of immersive and ambient sound in his films, Twin Peaks and original catalog. All proceeds benefitted the non-profit Foundation to bring Transcendental Meditation to at-risk populations suffering with PTS.

To read press reviewing the event please click here

To read a review of the event on Rolling Stone please click here

MEDITATION AND THE BRAIN

February 19, 2015 | New York City

  • Fred Travis, Ph.DFred Travis, Ph.D
  • William Stixrud, Ph.DWilliam Stixrud, Ph.D

A sold-out audience convened at the Rubin Museum of Art on February 19th for a riveting discussion of the effects of Transcendental Meditation on the brain. Hosted by the David Lynch Foundation, the evening featured a live EEG demonstration and presentations from leading experts in the field:

  • Dr. Fred Travis, distinguished neuroscientist and pioneering researcher in the study of meditation, consciousness and the brain. Dr. Travis has authored over 70 papers and conference presentations investigating the relation between brain patterns, conscious processes, states of consciousness, and Transcendental Meditation. He is currently the Director of the Center for Brain, Consciousness and Cognition at Maharishi University of Management.
  • Dr. William Stixrud, leading clinical neuropsychologist and Director of The Stixrud Group, a DC-based organization specializing in neuropsychological assessment of children, adolescents and adults with learning, attention, social and/or emotional disorders. Dr. Stixrud is a frequent lecturer on the subjects of neuropsychological assessment, learning and executive disorders, brain development, motivation and TM’s effect on stress, sleep deprivation and technology overload on the brain.

Watch Highlights from the Event

Learn More About Research on TM, Click Here

TRANSCENDING HIV/AIDS
A National Webinar

October 30th, 2014 | San Francisco

  • DLF x SFAF

A panel of medical researchers, care professionals, and clients of the San Francisco Aids Foundation (SFAF) came together on October 30th at the City Club of San Francisco to present the results of a first-ever demonstration project studying the impact of Transcendental Meditation (TM) on 150 people living with HIV/AIDS. The conference also launched a new national initiative and partnership between the David Lynch Foundation and SFAF to teach TM to 10,000 people living with HIV in San Francisco and across the country. Panelists included:

  • Thomas Roth, Director of the David Lynch Foundation’s HIV Initiative
  • Jeffrey Leiphart, Ph.D., Senior Director of Programs and Services, San Francisco AIDS Foundation
  • Sumedha Chhatre, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, HIV Prevention Research Division, Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania
  • SFAF Staff and Clients

Watch Full Webinar Here

Visit the DLF/HIV Initiative, Click Here

View the Official Press Release, Click Here

TOWN HALL
Creativity, Performance & Stress

February 11, 2014 | New York City

  • Ray DalioRay Dalio
  • Dr. Mehmet OzDr. Oz
  • Arianna HuffingtonArianna Huffington
  • Mario BataliMario Batali
  • Dr. Pamela PeekeDr. Pamela Peeke
  • Dr. Mary Schmidt CampbellDr. Mary Schmidt
  • Dr. Norman RosenthalDr. Norman Rosenthal
  • Leslie SeymourLeslie Seymour
  • Andrew Ross SorkinAndrew Ross Sorkin

‘If there’s stress, I’ll just break off and go into the meditation. It will just wash off of me,’ said Ray Dalio, founder of Bridgewater Associates (the largest hedge fund in the world), speaking at the David Lynch Foundation-sponsored Town Hall meeting that covered the increasing usage of Transcendental Meditation at the workplace.

Divided into three panels in business, health and women professionals, the evening featured a stratospheric cast of experts including:

  • Ray Dalio, Founder of Bridgewater Associates
  • Dr. Mehmet Oz, Host of the Dr. Oz Show
  • Arianna Huffington, President and Editor-in-Chief of Huffington Post Media Group
  • Mario Batali, chef, writer, restaurateur and media personality
  • Dr. Pamela Peeke, MD, MPH, Host of Could You Survive?, Discovery Health TV
  • Dr. Mary Schmidt Campbell, PhD, Dean of the Tisch School of the Arts, New York University
  • Dr. Norman Rosenthal, MD, Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Georgetown University
  • Leslie Seymour, Editor-in-Chief of MORE magazine
  • Andrew Ross Sorkin - moderator, Host of CNBC Squawk Box

Funds raised from the evening will help provide TM to at-risk youth and veterans in New York City.

Watch Event Highlights

Institutional Investor: Ray Dalio & Mario Batali Meditate on Their Success FULL STORY

A LIFETIME OF HARMONY
Honoring Rick Rubin

February 27, 2014 | Los Angeles

  • Rick RubinRick Rubin
  • David LynchDavid Lynch
  • Damien RiceDamien Rice
  • The Dixie ChicksThe Dixie Chicks
  • Jake BuggJake Bugg

Acclaimed, grammy-winning music producer Rick Rubin was honored Thursday February 27th, 2014 by the David Lynch Foundation for a ‘Lifetime of Harmony’ in Los Angeles, California. A dedicated transcendental meditator for decades, Rick has been responsible for bringing an expansive range of musicians–such as Kanye West, Adele, LL Cool J, Beastie Boys, Lana Del Rey, Audioslave, Weezer and many others–to the limelight by creating albums that have marked inroads in their artistic careers.

Headliners for the evening included The Dixie Chicks, who reunited for the first time in three years for this special evening, alongside singer-song writers Damien Rice and Jake Bugg.

Funds from the evening will help expand the TM Quiet Time program to additional schools in the Los Angeles area.

A LIFETIME OF PEACE AND LOVE
Honoring Ringo Starr

January 20, 2014 | Los Angeles

  • Ringo StarrRingo Starr
  • David LynchDavid Lynch
  • Ben FoldsBen Folds
  • Ben HarperBen Harper
  • Bettye LaVetteBettye LaVette
  • Brendan BensonBrendan Benson

Ringo Starr was honored amidst 450 of his closest friends and supporters with the ‘DLF Lifetime of Peace and Love Award’ on January 20, 2014 at the El Rey Theater in Los Angeles. The evening featured stellar performances by headlining artists including Brendan Benson, Ben Folds, Bettye LaVette, Ben Harper, and Ringo Starr himself. 

Ringo received the award from David Lynch, who was also celebrating his 68th birthday that evening. Lifetime friends Paul McCartney and Yoko Ono contributed video messages to the evening, sharing stories of Ringo's years of dedication to peace, love, and of course, Transcendental Meditation (TM).

On the occasion of his award, Ringo inaugurated a Peace & Love Fund to help bring Transcendental Meditation to at-risk youth in Los Angeles. Every dollar raised for the Ringo Starr Peace & Love Fund, up to $1 million, will be matched by a generous donor and Ringo Starr fan.

Rolling Stone: Ringo Starr Honored with ‘Lifetime of Peace and Love’ Award FULL STORY

CHANGE BEGINS WITHIN V
Celebrating NYC Veterans and First Responders

December 3, 2013 | New York City

  • Hugh JackmanHugh Jackman
    Actor and producer
  • Deborra-lee FurnessDeborra-lee Furness
    Actress and director
  • Salvatore CassanoSalvatore Cassano
    FDNY Commissioner
  • David LynchDavid Lynch
    Filmmaker
  • Jerry SeinfeldJerry Seinfeld
    Comedian

The David Lynch Foundation celebrated its fifth annual “Change Begins Within” gala in honor of veterans and first responders on Tuesday, December 3, at the Conrad Hotel in New York City. The evening was co-hosted by David Lynch and Jerry Seinfeld and featured inspiring videos and testimony from servicemen and women, whose lives had been transformed through practice of the Transcendental Meditation technique. All funds raised from the evening will help provide TM instruction to NYC veterans and first responders in need. Gala honorees included Hugh and Deborra-lee Jackman (Lifetime of Giving Award) and NYC Fire Department Commissioner Salvatore Cassano (Lifetime of Service Award).

Wall Street Journal: A Benefit for the David Lynch Foundation on Meditation FULL STORY

AUTISM, MEDITATION AND STRESS

November 14, 2013 | Global Webinar

  • Rita CosbyRita Cosby
    TV News Anchor
  • David Black, Ph.D.David Black, Ph.D.
    Pediatric neuropsychologist
  • Sarina Grosswald, Ed.D.Sarina Grosswald, Ed.D.
    Cognitive learning specialist
  • William Stixrud, Ph.D.William Stixrud, Ph.D.
    Clinical neuropsychologist
  • Roberta LowensteinRoberta Lowenstein
    Chair, Joey Lowenstein Foundation
  • Norman Rosenthal, M.D.Norman Rosenthal, M.D.
    Clinical Professor of Psychiatry

Can a simple, easily-learned, evidence-based meditation technique be an effective tool for reducing the symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)? During this global webinar, a distinguished panel of experts explores the research, clinical applications, and uses of Transcendental Meditation for reducing stress and stress-related disorders, improving brain function, and enhancing quality of life among children and teens with ASD.

The webinar was co-sponsored by the David Lynch Foundation, the Joey Lowenstein Foundation, and the Center for Autism Assessment and Treatment

Watch the replay

Women. Meditation. Stress.

October 8th, 2013 | New York City

  • Mary Schmidt CampbellMary Schmidt Campbell
  • Candy CrowleyCandy Crowley
  • Rita CosbyRita Cosby
  • Rehana FarrellRehana Farrell
  • Yolanda JimenezYolanda Jimenez
  • Carol KurzigCarol Kurzig
  • Pamela Peeke, M.D.Pamela Peeke, M.D.
  • Lesley SeymourLesley Seymour

In a standing-room-only crowd of over 350 women professionals, the David Lynch Foundation Women’s Initiative hosted a “Women, Meditation, and Stress” conference at the Paley Center for Media to consider the effectiveness of Transcendental Meditation for healing and empowering survivors of domestic violence. The conference also discussed the growing use of TM among women professionals for increasing energy, creativity and focus.

In a special segment, panelists presented results of an ongoing partnership with the Mayor’s Office to Combat Domestic Violence (MOCDV) to bring TM to the City’s women and children in need. Based on the early success of this partnership, the Avon Foundation for Women has provided generous funding to bring TM to 50 additional women and children.

Yolanda B. Jimenez, Commissioner of MOCDV, received the lifetime of service award for her over 30 years of dedicated effort towards combatting domestic violence.

Panel members included women leaders from business, media, education, and social services.

  • Candy Crowley, Host of CNN’s State of the Union with Candy Crowley
  • Lena Dunham, Emmy award-winning filmmaker and actress
  • Rehana Farrell, CAO at Guggenheim Partners
  • Yolanda B. Jimenez, Commissioner of the Mayor’s Office to Combat Domestic Violence
  • Carol Kurzig, President of the Avon Foundation for Women
  • Pamela Peeke, MD, MPH, FACP, Chief Medical Correspondent for Discovery Health TV
  • Lesley Seymour, Editor-in-Chief, More magazine

Watch video highlights

Huffington Post: “Lena Dunham – I’ve been meditating since I was 9 years old.”
Full Story

Overcoming PTS and Preventing Suicides:
An Evidence-based Approach through Meditation in the Military

February 4th, 2013 | New York City

  • Ed SchloemanCMS (Ret.)
    Ed Schloeman
  • President SchneiderPresident
    Richard Schneider
  • Rita CosbyRita Cosby
  • Robert CancroDr. Robert Cancro
  • Luke JensenLuke Jensen
  • Ed SchloemanEd Schloeman

Operation Warrior Wellness hosted a luncheon conference at the New York Athletic Club to raise awareness about the effectiveness of Transcendental Meditation for relieving PTS symptoms and depression and, ultimately, preventing further incidence of suicide. The conference followed new reports that 22 veterans die from suicide every day.

At the conference, combat veterans—Ed Schloeman and Afghanistan War veteran Luke Jensen—shared moving accounts of their personal battles with PTS and, in Mr. Jensen’s case, close brushes with suicide. These men were able to triumph over terrible invisible wounds through twice daily practice of Transcendental Meditation.

Compelling testimony from a panel of experts that included Rear Admiral (Ret.) Richard Schneider, President of Norwich University; Marguerite Meyer, Ed.D., Director of Norwich University's Academic Achievement Center; Robert Cancro, M.D., Chairman Emeritus of NYU Langone Medical Center; and Gary Kaplan, M.D., Ph.D., Associate Professor of Neurology at Hofstra University confirmed that the experiences of these courageous men are not unique.

The compelling data and moving accounts presented at the conference have inspired several national publications to help raise awareness about TM for veterans.

Bloomberg Businessweek: TM may help stressed vets Full Story

WATCH EVENT REPLAY

A Historic Night of Jazz: Fourth Annual Change Begins Within Benefit Gala

December 13th, 2012 | New York City

  • Herbie HancockHerbie Hancock
  • Wynton MarsalisWynton Marsalis
  • Wayne ShorterWayne Shorter
  • Corinne Bailey RaeCorinne Bailey Rae
  • Esperanza SpaldingEsperanza Spalding
  • Terri Lyne CarringtonTerri Lyne Carrington

The David Lynch Foundation celebrated the successes of the past year at “An Historic Night of Jazz”–its fourth annual Change Begins Within benefit gala–held at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City. The evening featured world-class jazz performances and inspiring stories of transformation from first responders, survivors of domestic violence, and children on the autistic spectrum.

During the evening, the Foundation honored Dr. Mehmet and Lisa Oz with the DLF’s “Perfect Health Award” and Ray and Barbara Dalio with the DLF’s “Unbounded Generosity Award” for their unmatched lifetime achievements in the fields of health and finance and philanthropy—and for their generous support of the DLF’s work with adults and children in great need. Sixteen-year-old Joey Lowenstein, who has autism spectral disorder, received the DLF’s “Resolute Courage Award” for triumphing over overwhelming personal setbacks and starting the Joey Lowenstein Foundation to aid children with autism, including providing them with TM instruction.

Donations from the benefit gala helped the Foundation begin to deploy a team of young professional instructors who will bring Transcendental Meditation to thousands of inner-city students, veterans, and women and girls in the New York City Tri-State area during 2013.

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Veterans and military leaders urge use of meditation at Iowa Veterans Summit

October 11th, 2012 | Des Moines, IA

  • President Richard SchneiderPresident
    Richard Schneider
  • Luke JensenLuke Jensen
  • COL Brian ReesCOL Brian Rees

More than 100 military and veteran leaders gathered at the West Des Moines Marriott in October to discuss research findings on the effectiveness of the Transcendental Meditation-based Resilient Warrior Program for aiding veterans and active-duty personnel suffering from combat-related mental injury. The summit was organized by Operation Warrior Wellness with support from the Iowa Commission of Veterans Affairs.

Presenters included RADM (Ret.) Richard W. Schneider, President of Norwich University; Col. Brian Rees, M.D., Command Surgeon for the 63rd Regional Support Command; and Luke Jensen, Operation Enduring Freedom veteran.

Building on the receptivity created by the event, Operation Warrior Wellness is now working with VA officials and military leaders in Iowa to bring the Resilient Warrior Program to veterans and service personnel in need.

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Jay Leno and Jerry Seinfeld
surprise DLF comedy benefit

June 30th, 2012  |  Los Angeles

  • George ShapiroGeorge Shapiro
  • Jay LenoJay Leno
  • Jerry SeinfeldJerry Seinfeld

An all-star lineup of comedians honored legendary talent manager and producer George Shapiro with the Foundation’s first annual “Lifetime of Bliss Award” during DLF’s Night of Comedy. The gala raised funds to teach the Transcendental Meditation technique to veterans with PTS, at-risk students and abused women and girls.

The tribute to Shapiro, 80, a beloved figure in the entertainment industry and a 30-year TM meditator, featured stand-up routines by Sarah Silverman, and Garry Shandling, with surprise appearances by Jerry Seinfeld (George has been Seinfeld’s manager for over 30 years) and longtime friend Jay Leno. The comedy benefit drew substantial press coverage for the Foundation, including articles in Variety and the Los Angeles Times.

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Military leaders and medical researchers promote TM for resilience and health at national summit

May 3rd, 2012  |  Washington, D.C.

  • W. Scott GouldDeputy Secretary
    W. Scott Gould
  • Dr. Richard SchneiderPresident Richard Schneider
  • Candy CrowleyCandy Crowley

More than 130 military and governmental leaders and medical researchers gathered at the Army and Navy Club for a national summit on “Resilience, the Brain, and Meditation.” The meeting investigated the extensive scientific evidence and clinical experience using the Transcendental Meditation technique to promote resilience and overcome post-traumatic stress disorder among active-duty military personnel, veterans and cadets.

The summit was sponsored by Operation Warrior Wellness, a division of the David Lynch Foundation, and hosted by Candy Crowley, the Emmy Award-winning host of CNN’s State of the Union with Candy Crowley.

Keynote speakers included W. Scott Gould, U.S. Deputy Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and Dr. Richard W. Schneider, RADM USCGR (Ret.), 23rd president of Norwich University—the oldest private military college in the country, where TM is being studied as a tool to promote resilience among cadets.

Washington Post: VA testing whether meditation can help treat PTS  full story

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Public forum spotlights benefits
of TM for abused women

March 31st, 2012  |  New York City

  • Soledad O’BrienSoledad O’Brien
  • Tara WiseTara Wise
  • Rita CosbyRita Cosby

Abused women and girls can heal and empower themselves through the twice daily practice of the simple, effortless, evidence-based Transcendental Meditation technique—according to a panel of distinguished women doctors and advocates who gathered for the first annual public forum on “Women, Violence, and Meditation,” held at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum.

Speakers included Soledad O’Brien, Rita Cosby, Pamela Shifman, Tara Wise Jones, Dr. Pamela Peeke, Dr. Lois Lee, Dr. Sarina Grosswald and Joni Kimberlin. The Forum—attended by 175 government, philanthropic and community leaders, along with members of the general public—launched the David Lynch Foundation’s new Women’s Initiative.

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Third annual “Change Begins Within” gala

December 3rd, 2011  |  Los Angeles County Museum of Art

A star-studded audience was moved by incredible stories of transformation among veterans and underserved youth who’ve overcome traumatic stress through Transcendental Meditation.

Superintendent Carlos Garcia and several principals voiced passionate support for widespread adoption of the TM/Quiet Time program, based on the dramatic results at their own schools. Veterans and their families spoke about the healing effect of TM practice on combat-induced post-traumatic stress (PTS). Award recipients included:

  • Resilient Warrior Award: Paul Rieckhoff, Executive Director, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America
  • Quiet Time Award: Carlos Garcia, Superintendent, San Francisco Unified School District

Wall Street Journal: David Lynch Foundation implements meditation programs for at-risk students and veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder  full story

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Celebrities host benefit gala at
Metropolitan Museum of Art

December 13th, 2010  |  New York

David Lynch, Martin Scorsese, Clint Eastwood,
Katy Perry and Candy Crowley celebrated the Foundation’s wide range of successful projects for

  • students
  • veterans
  • homeless teens & adults
  • American Indians

This inspiring, entertaining event also launched Operation Warrior Wellness, an initiative to combat post-traumatic stress among veterans, active duty military and their families.

NY Times: David Lynch Foundation offers TM to troubled students, veterans, homeless people, prisoners and others  full story

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Paul McCartney headlines benefit
concert at Radio City Music Hall

April 3rd, 2009  |  New York

  • Sir Paul McCartney and Ringo StarrSir Paul McCartney
    and Ringo Starr
  • Jerry SeinfeldJerry Seinfeld
  • Sheryl CrowSheryl Crow

Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr reunited onstage for this landmark concert, supporting the Foundation’s goal of teaching 1 million at-risk students to meditate. They were joined by Sheryl Crow, Donovan, Mike Love, Eddie Vedder, Ben Harper, Moby, Bettye Lavette and many other musicians.

Jerry Seinfeld—a long-time TM practitioner himself—added humor to the already celebratory atmosphere.

NY Times: Just say ‘Om’: The Fab Two give a little help to a cause
full story

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This event showcased how Transcendental Meditation programs help at-risk students and veterans overcome stress, anxiety, depression and learning disorders—while improving their creativity, focus and mental resiliency.

Renowned psychiatrist Dr. Norman Rosenthal introduced his new book Transcendence: Healing and Transformation through Transcendental Meditation.

ABC News: Meditation heals military vets with PTS  full story

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Donna Karan’s Urban Zen Foundation
partners to launch Operation Warrior
Wellness NYC

June 7th, 2011  |  New York

  • Donna KaranDonna Karan
  • Captain Eric TauschCaptain Eric Tausch
  • Ed SchloemanEd Schloeman

Operation Warrior Wellness NYC will bring the Transcendental Meditation program and integrative therapies to veterans and their families in New York who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder.

Veterans from each generation—World War II, Vietnam, and Iraq—shared personal stories of how TM transformed their lives and healed the trauma of war.

CNN: Alternative treatment promoted for soldiers suffering from PTS
full story

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San Francisco school superintendent:
the Quiet Time program is “transforming lives, and it will transform our society”

June 1st, 2011  |  San Francisco

  • Carlos GarciaDr. Carlos Garcia
  • James DierkeJames Dierke
  • Laurent ValosekLaurent Valosek

Carlos Garcia, superintendent of the San Francisco Unified School District, praised the Quiet Time program for helping turn around several of the city’s most troubled schools.

The Quiet Time program serves thousands of at-risk middle school and high school students, plus many teachers and administrators.

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Operation Warrior Wellness news conference

December 13th, 2010  |  New York

  • Dr. Sarina GrosswaldDr. Sarina Grosswald
  • COL Brian ReesCOL Brian Rees
  • CMS (Ret.) Ed SchloemanCMS (Ret.)
    Ed Schloeman

The psychological wounds of war are less visible than physical ones, yet equally devastating—more veterans die due to suicide than in combat.

The David Lynch Foundation launched Operation Warrior Wellness to promote resiliency and well-being among veterans, active duty military and their families through the evidence-based Transcendental Meditation program. This press conference featured military personnel, scientists and celebrities.

Wall Street Journal: Filmmaker introduces veterans to meditation
full story

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President Clinton addresses DLF’s
international conference: Building healthy, sustainable American Indian communities

September 25–27th, 2009  |  Iowa

  • President Bill ClintonPresident Bill Clinton
  • Joe GarciaJoe A. Garcia
  • Lucille EchohawkLucille Echohawk

This conference unveiled a 5-point plan developed by the Ho-Chunk Elders Advisory Council and Hocak Elders Council:

  1. Education: Improving academic achievement & reducing stress and violence among youth
  2. Health: Preventing and treating diabetes, cardiovascular disease, substance abuse and depression
  3. Energy: Promoting self-sufficiency through wind and solar technologies
  4. Agriculture: Creating food and economic self-sufficiency through organic farming
  5. Cultural preservation & restoration: Safeguarding the land, language and spiritual traditions of American Indians

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