Gretchen's initial training in meditation began in 1994 while working alongside formerly imprisoned activists who developed techniques to free themselves from conditions of solitary confinement. These teachings in interdependent awakening supported her professional life restoring justice within communities in need of healing; they ultimately led to her life of public service.

Her work, in partnership with leaders in the reentry community, has culminated in a meditation and reconciliation series integrated within DC neighborhoods.

In her free time, Gretchen supports integration of contemplative practices while teaching at Georgetown University Law Center, hosting educational exchanges for local restorative justice practitioners and co-coordinating Insight Meditation Community of Washington’s People of Color Sangha (POC).

Gretchen is one of 120 Buddhist leaders nationwide called to participate in the first Whitehouse Buddhist Leadership Conference in 2015. She continues to study in the Theravadan tradition under the direction of her primary teacher, Gina Sharpe.

Gretchen’s work and writings are featured in Mindful Magazine, the Lion’s Roar/Buddha DharmaMagazine and the Huffington Post Pioneers Series.