Zen Master Soeng Hyang (Barbara Rhodes)
Head Zen Master, Kwan Um School of Zen

Known as ‘Bobby’ to her students, Zen Master Soeng Hyang is a groundbreaking figure in Korean Zen, becoming the first Western woman to receive Dharma transmission from Zen Master Seung Sahn on October 10, 1992. As the Head Zen Master of the international Kwan Um School of Zen, she guides the tradition’s global evolution while emphasizing that the true function of Zen wisdom is revealed through living a clear and compassionate life. Drawing from her experience as a Zen teacher, nurse, hospice caregiver and mother, she demonstrates how Zen practice integrates seamlessly into daily life, offering practical tools to meet modern challenges with resilience and purpose. Known for her warmth, humor, humility and authenticity, her teachings illuminate how clarity of mind and a deep vow leads to compassionate and skillful action rooted in wisdom. She is the author of Composting Our Karma: Turning Confusion into Lessons for Awakening Our Innate Wisdom (Shambhala).