About
Jeff Maliskey is a Queer educator and yoga teacher in Grand Forks, North Dakota known for his commitment to creating a community where everyone feels welcome, supported, and empowered to explore their own potential.
I started practicing yoga at a time when I was struggling with my identity and need to find some peace and meaning in my life. Yoga freed me from self-destructive behaviors and guided me towards self-discovery.
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As the years went by I slowly drifted away from my practice and became buried in my work, I was disconnected from the world around me; I had let my job and doctoral study consume my life. In recognizing a need for change, I found my way back to yoga through practice at Lotus Yoga in Grand Forks, North Dakota. That same year I completed my Ph.D. in education, health, and behavior studies, started a new position as the director of the Pride Center for Gender and Sexuality at the University of North Dakota, along with starting my 200 hour yoga teaching training; it was just the reset that I needed to re-center and find my purpose.
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Today, I continue my practice as a yoga teacher in-person at Lotus Yoga. I teach in a way that offers strength and resilience, happiness and joy, along with the freedom to express and explore. Together, we can connect through yoga to find a more fulfilling, happier, and healthier life.
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Higher Education
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Ph.D. in Education, Health, and Behavior Studies (Higher Education), University of North Dakota, 2022
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M.Ed in College Student Affairs Leadership, Grand Valley State University, 2015
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B.A. in Sociology, Ferris State University, 2013
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A.A. in Social Science, Southwestern Michigan College​, 2011
Foundational Training
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300 - Hour Embody Yoga's Roots: Ignite Yoga and Wellness Institute, 2024
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200- Hour Yoga Teacher Training, Lotus Yoga, 2023​
Continuing Education
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Pilates - Reformer 1, Balanced Body, 2024
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30 - Hour Restorative Yoga Teacher Training, YogaRenew, 2024
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Yoga Sculpt Certification, Lotus Yoga, 2023
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Level 1 Lagree Fitness Trainer, 2023
Higher Education Speaking & Consulting
I am a frequently invited keynote and guest speaker at colleges, universities, professional organizations , and community organizations. I blend my personal stories and professional experience to discuss how to support LGBTQIA2S+ people. I will work with you to speak on a topic that best achieves your goals.