Char Willingham collaborates on new programming

Char Willingham has the kind of calming presence that brings instant ease to any interaction. Beloved by students and colleagues alike, Char came to Down Under recommended by teaching colleague Kate Robinson who described her as an “impeccable teacher, human being and artist.”

As part of the Teacher Leadership Council and Director of the Prenatal School, Char’s innate ability to make people feel comfortable, seen, and supported makes her a profoundly effective leader. 

“It is an honor to be among so many accomplished teachers who work together to combine their efforts, skills, talents, insights, passion, enthusiasm, and commitment for the greater good of the DUY community. Living through the pandemic allowed us to slow down and see things as they truly are while showing us the need to work towards solidarity, even as we reckon with the reality of inequities within our communities. 

We have the ability within the yoga space to encourage authentic conversations that impact our culture and drive positive change, and I’m thrilled to be a part of these efforts.

One of the most striking things about leadership here is how collaboratively we work together. In a recent meeting with my prenatal colleagues, it was exciting to hear the incredible wealth of expertise on the many topics each member is passionate about, from pregnancy, childbirth prep, and postnatal physical specialties, to maternal loss. The programming that we are planning is comprehensive. We brainstormed a host of annual workshops and teacher trainings that will be my privilege to put together.

Similarly, our recent TLC meeting included powerful topics from vaccination to teacher development. We did not always agree with each other, but the caliber of the conversation is a testimony to Down Under’s choice of faculty.

There is common decency and a collective aversion to any drama, which means even if we disagree, people exchange ideas in a way that is so respectful and articulate that it leads to genuinely hearing each other vs. the modern-day one-way diatribes.

I’m so looking forward to not only building robust prenatal programs but to working with my Restorative colleagues on programming, including my sound healing and crystal bowl meditations, that we are excited to bring to the student body next year. Stay tuned!”