It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Ram Dass (Richard Alpert), born on April 6th, 1931. He died peacefully on December 22nd, 2019 at the age of 88. Ram Dass was a pioneering figure in promoting Eastern spiritual practices in the West. Born and raised in Boston, Massachusetts, he was an influential spiritual figure who left an indelible mark on Western culture. After earning his PhD in clinical psychology at Stanford, he became a professor and psychologist at Harvard. Following a life-changing visit to India in 1967, he returned with new spiritual perspectives that he shared in a variety of books, talks, and lectures. Famously remembered for his book 'Be Here Now', his life's dedication included promoting the teachings of Indian spiritual guru Neem Karoli Baba, offering his own teachings on conscious aging, and founding a network of food pantries, hospices, and health clinics in India, Nepal, and Puerto Rico. Serving as a beacon of light, he touched the lives of millions of people through his work and his compassion. Ram Dass will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.