Ngakmo Lhamo

• Staff

Ngakphang Lhamo (Peggy Ann Burton) is a dedicated practitioner, advocate, and spiritual seeker. Ordained in August 2016, Peggy’s journey toward spiritual fulfillment and social justice has been deeply shaped by her diverse educational and life experiences. She earned a B.A. in Zoology from the University of Montana, a B.S. in Health Sciences from the University of Oregon Medical School, and an M.B.A. from Illinois State University. Her professional career spanned teaching biology, working as a medical technologist, and conducting research for State Farm Insurance.

Raised Roman Catholic on a farm in Missoula, Montana, Peggy’s early spiritual inspirations came from her faith and her mother’s wisdom. With a passion for exploring the nature of God and reality, she was particularly moved by Jesus’ words: “You can do what I do and more.” This quest for truth led her to Native American spirituality, studying under Oceana Fastwolf for four years, and ultimately becoming a student of Domo Geshe Rinpoche in 2008.

Peggy’s mother imparted lifelong lessons that have guided her spiritual journey: the belief that all experiences are divinely ordered, challenges are surmountable, kindness should be extended to all, and forgiveness is paramount.

In addition to her spiritual dedication, Peggy is a trailblazer in LGBTQ rights. In 1971, after being fired from a teaching position due to her sexuality, she filed a federal lawsuit with the ACLU, marking a landmark case in LGBTQ civil rights. Her activism continued for decades, including testifying for gay rights legislation and advocating for marriage equality.

Ngakmo Lhamo’s life is a testament to resilience, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to both spiritual growth and social justice.