Guo Gu (Dr. Jimmy Yu) is the founder of the Tallahassee Chan Center and Dharma Relief, and serves as a professor of Buddhism and East Asian religions at Florida State University. With nearly forty years of practice behind him, including three decades of study under the late Master Sheng Yen, he brings both depth and continuity to his teaching. In 1995, he was authorized to teach Chan, a milestone that reflects his long dedication to the tradition.
His approach offers a bridge between Silent Illumination and Huatou, the koan-based method of inquiry within Chan. Through his guidance, participants can expect a thoughtful, grounded introduction to contemplative practice that connects classical Buddhist teachings with a clear and accessible modern presentation.