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What actually emerges from the correspondence concerning RVC is a feeling of disappointment that the Movement has not established a real accredited college of its very own; a college that offers the courses and training that any regular college would, while providing a Krishna Conscious atmosphere and a spiritual perspective in its courses.

One cannot blame Danavir Swami for the Movement's lack. If you look at the description of what he is offering, it's evident that the whole thrust of RVC is in theological studies. RVC means to train up ministers, brahmans, preachers, priests, and temple managers. This is certainly an important contribution. So the discussion shouldn't revolve around what RVC is not offering, but rather how can ISKCON facilitate the diverse needs of its members, friends, and supporters.

I don't foresee an ISKCON college in the immediate future for those who want an accredited education. We have to look at what is doable at this stage of the game. As far as educational opportunities, there was a great event here in New Vrindavan on May 10 - 12. I've always envisioned New Vrindavan as a sort of campus where devotees could come for retreats, workshops, seminars, discussions. I'd like to see this weekend retreat expand into a week, and perhaps offered several times throughout the year.

A core of devotee presenters could even travel together and make retreat/seminars available in different parts of the country. I travel extensively making presentations and have often thought how powerful it would be to have a group of presenters working together. There is certainly a great need for such unique opportunities wherein members of the Movement (or anyone for that matter) can hone their skills in a variety of professional fields, improve their relationships and communication skills, and be inspired and rejuvenated in devotional life. The movement might even win new friends and influence people in the process.

One final comment: I don't think "it may be a stretch to include him [Drutakarma] as a member of the ‘academic community.’" I am also without a Ph.D., but I travel extensively offering programs from K thru college and am considered part of the academic and educational community. I have been invited to numerous colleges for short-term residencies wherein I discuss the uses and dynamics of storytelling with professors and their students in theater, education, sociology, world lit, etc. There are those in the academic world who acknowledge experience, individual research, longevity in a field, and especially being published as a worthy enough credential.

Sankirtana das
Center For Sacred Storytelling
& Vedic Storytelling Institute
New Vrindavan Community
story108@juno.com