Meet Dr. Julene Tegerstrand
Spiritual Director | Peace Educator | Leadership Coach

I’m Dr. Julene Tegerstrand, a spiritual director, peace educator, and leadership coach dedicated to helping individuals and communities cultivate peace, deepen relationships, and navigate life’s complexities with wisdom and grace.

Rooted in the Wesleyan tradition and ordained in the Church of the Nazarene, my journey has also been shaped by Catholic, Benedictine, and Jesuit influences, alongside a passion for interfaith and ecumenical dialogue. This isn’t just an academic pursuit—it’s personal. I’m married to Steve Tumolo, a committed Catholic, Nonviolent Communication practitioner, and founder of Heart-to-Heart Inc. and together we model bridge-building across faith traditions in our shared work and life.

With my husband, I co-lead Heart-to-Heart’s Peace Leadership Academy, a project that equips people to address conflict with courage and empathy and offers tools to build relational harmony. My work also involves research and writing, including pursuing grant funding to expand peace education initiatives.

Supporting Your Spiritual Growth

In spiritual direction, I create spaces for individuals and groups to reflect on their relationship with God, explore their inner life, and discern their path forward. Whether you’re seeking clarity, connection, or purpose, my approach fosters deep listening and spiritual transformation.

I also specialize in group spiritual direction, where shared reflection and support create a rich environment for growth. These sessions are particularly valuable for communities or teams looking to strengthen relationships and cultivate collective wisdom.

Everyday Peacemaking

Peacemaking isn’t just for big, public moments—it’s for the everyday interactions that define our lives. In my own family, I’ve experienced the challenge of navigating differing perspectives and voting habits, and I’ve learned that dialogue, empathy, and humility are key to maintaining meaningful relationships.

Through workshops and courses like Pathways to Peace: Essential Communication Skills for Christian Leaders, I help individuals and groups develop practical skills for conflict resolution, cultural humility, and communication that bridges divides.

A Lifelong Commitment to Learning and Leading

I’ve spent over eight years as an Intercultural Studies professor, designing courses that integrate spirituality, peacebuilding, and cultural humility. I hold a PhD in Leadership Studies from Gonzaga University, where my research focused on how contemplative practices empower women peace leaders. My Jesuit education has profoundly influenced my approach to leadership, faith, and service.

Today, I teach courses on Spiritual Direction and Christian Pilgrimage at Nazarene Theological Seminary and collaborate with Heart to Heart, where I design peacebuilding programs and teach Nonviolent Communication (NVC) in prisons.

Let’s Build Peace Together

If you’re looking for spiritual direction, peace education, or leadership coaching, I’d love to partner with you. Whether individually or in groups, my work is centered on equipping people with tools to foster deeper relationships, navigate conflict, and create lasting peace.

Contact me today to explore how I can support your journey.