Faculty Facts

Kani Comstock

Kani Comstock completed the Hoffman Process in February 1986, and soon after was asked by Bob Hoffman to direct the Institute. In 1990 she also became a Process teacher. To say that she’s integral to the Hoffman Institute is a colossal understatement.

Kani is a woman of the world who started her journey in Milwaukee, WI and continued it in the suburbs of NYC, growing up in a close family with three siblings. Because her parents encouraged their kids to pursue their interests, Kani let her natural curiosity lead her. At five, during a visit to Chinatown, Kani began her fascination with China and Japan. She was also a voracious reader and loved examining objects, collected from nature, under her microscope.

Having earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and a Master’s in cell physiology and biochemistry, Kani was working on a PhD when a personal tragedy led her to dramatically change her path. Creating a new vision for her life, she moved to Tokyo teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) and eventually became the first non-Japanese to direct the Japanese school. Back in the USA she founded a college-based ESL center and internationalized the college curriculum. next, as vice-president of a student exchange organization, she designed programs, and traveled regularly in Asia, finally getting to experience China. All together she has traveled to over 30 countries.

While taking a three-month break from work, Kani had to face her workaholism. “All I wanted to do was again work 80 hours a week. I always felt that if I had my full briefcase, I would have a good time. I realized I didn’t know how to play.” Kani became curious when her brother, Craig, quickly followed by her sister, Barbara, (also a Hoffman teacher now) did the Process, and she read all she could about it. “I have the scientist’s mind, so I needed to know that there was a structure.”

What Kani discovered through the Process was an “ease” she had never known before. “At the Process I came to treasure every aspect of my quadrinity as vital to my wholeness –– to listen to each, and be present to them all. I learned to care for myself as well as others, and I learned to have fun!”

As Director of the Institute, she helped Bob Hoffman bring the Process to other countries and organize it for growth. In collaboration with Marisa Thame, Director of the Hoffman Institute in Brazil, she delighted Bob by writing Journey into Love, Ten Steps to Wholeness, to introduce others to the Process and support graduates in their integration.

Realizing that teaching had become her true love, Kani slowly transitioned out of directing into full-time teaching and coaching. “Teaching the Process, as well as coaching, is endlessly fascinating. I have the honor of guiding and supporting people in the adventure of changing their lives and becoming more truly who they are.” said Kani.

The Hoffman Process is truly a family affair for Kani. Her mother, Marge, did the Process when she was 72. Each of Kani’s three siblings have done the Process as well as their partners, and many friends.

When Kani’s not coaching, teaching a Hoffman Process or designing projects, she spends time at her home in Ashland, Oregon, living close to her three siblings, her mother, many good friends, and in eyesight of the delightful garden she has created. Another great pleasure is travel, especially to far off islands and countries with cultures far different from our own.