Self-Compassion, Happiness, and Well-Being for Law School Deans: Multi-Sensory Healing Experience

June 29 - July 1, 2027

Law school deans need the support of other deans for their happiness and well-being.

Welcome to Self-Compassion, Happiness, and Well-Being for Law School Deans: Multi-Sensory Healing Experience in Italy.

This is an exclusive invite-only event for current and former law school deans from all over the world that will reach all your senses, your intellect, your emotions, and your heart.

You’ll engage in meditation practice, compassion practice, and awareness practice with ample time for cultural experiences, enjoyment, and networking to develop personal and professional relationships with other deans. You’ll have the opportunity to get to know a wonderful group of people who understand the intricacies of your profession and its particular challenges.

Italy is a celebration of LIFE. Let’s celebrate together in the summer, integrating mindfulness with Renaissance wisdom and Greek mythology, while learning to listen to your heart and mind every step of the way.

The goal of Self-Compassion, Happiness, and Well-Being for Law School Deans: Multi-Sensory Healing Experience is to create an oasis for you: an oasis of beauty, an oasis of joy, of the carefree, of the profound, of lightness, and of your own freedom.

Get ready to enjoy each other’s company, reap the benefits of an authentic Italian experience, and learn to drive positive change in (and through) the higher education profession.

You’ll leave with strong new friendships, a greater sense of inner calm, easier access to joy, and lasting memories of a part of Italy mostly untouched by tourists!

You’ll benefit from a healing experience that is tailored specifically to law school deans.


A Healing Experience Through:

  • Connection

  • Compassion

  • Beauty

  • Gratitude

  • Fresh Food Grown in Ischia

  • Poetry

  • Greek Mythology

  • Meditation

  • Thermal Hot Springs

  • Walks in Nature

Hosts:

Association of American Law Schools

Lead With Compassion

Testimonials

You'll gain the mindset to enhance your happiness for decades to come.

WHAT

This unique 5-day Self-Compassion, Happiness, and Well-Being for Law School Deans: Multi-Sensory
Healing Experience lives deans the opportunity to build genuine friendships and partnerships with current leaders in the field of higher education, as well as strategize about how to overcome challenges – both personal and professional.

It’s an All-Inclusive Experience in an Italian Paradise for 5 days which includes:

  • Connections to other deans

  • Opportunity to start or deepen a meditation practice

  • Authentic small-town Italian life for 5 days

  • 3 healthy, farm-to-table, delicious meals a day

  • 5-course dinners every night

  • Relaxation for the body and mind

  • Ancient Greek myths

  • Daily heart-opening and self-compassion

  • Italian poetry and introduction to Italian history and culture

WHERE

Southern Italy is paradise in the summer.

Everyone knows the famous island of Capri.

Lesser known is the next island over called Ischia. It is as beautiful, if not more so, and for the most part, tourists haven't discovered it yet.

Ischia is amazing because it combines a deep history – Homer included it as part of Odysseus’ journey in The Odyssey, W. H. Auden composed poetry about it, and it's the first place where the Ancient Greeks landed when they moved to Italy – lovely small towns, beautiful vegetation and nature, the sparkling Mediterranean sea, friendly people, and natural thermal hot springs that relax the body and mind.

It's a wonderful place to spend time in the summer, and a wonderful setting to be meeting other deans and future friends.

Finally, you’ll be in one of the few places where you can still get the authentic Italian experience.

According to CNN, Ischia is “the paradise island that offers a taste of the real Italy.”

You’ll feel rejuvenated, connected, and like you have gone on a magical adventure.

Chi trova un amico, trova un tesoro – Whoever finds a friend finds a treasure (Italian Proverb)

THEMES DAY-BY-DAY

Day 1: Arrival, Welcome Session, Dinner

  • Welcome lunch and introductions

  • Meditation session to arrive fully

  • Insight into Italian poetry

  • Five-course gourmet dinner

Day 2: Mindfulness and Joy

  • Visit the Archeological Museum and Lacco Ameno downtown

  • Discover the mythology of Ischia

  • Five-course gourmet dinner

Day 3: Self-Compassion, Freedom from the Inner Critic, Leadership of Self

  • Self-Compassion Meditation

  • Freedom from the Inner Critic

  • Stroll through La Mortella gardens

  • Five-course gourmet dinner

Day 4: Connecting with Compassion

  • Visit Aragonese Castle

  • Five-course gourmet dinner

  • Special Surprise on the rooftop terrace

Day 5: Longterm Benefits and Well-being into the Future

  • Last dip in the mineral hot spring pool

  • How to integrate these benefits into your life longterm

  • Closing Symposium Session: Achievements and Future Endeavours

EXPERIENCE CURATED BY:
ELIZABETH PYJOV, JD MTS

B.A. Harvard College, Romance Languages and Literatures

‍Certification Stanford Medical School, Neuroscience, Philosophy, Pedagogy of Compassion

J.D. Harvard Law School

MTS Harvard Divinity School, Theology Degree

New York City Bar Well-Being Committee Member

Experience working with the teams at Baker McKenzie, Carlyle Group, Columbia Medical School, Deutsche Bank, Library of Congress, the New York State Supreme Court, Novartis, Ropes & Gray LLP, & Warby Parker

WHY ELIZABETH PYJOV

Elizabeth is a lawyer, thought leader, speaker, and CEO who holds 3 Harvard degrees, speaks 5 languages, has lived in 7 countries, and studied neuroscience at Stanford Medical School.

Her professional experience spans being a funds attorney at Sidley Austin, policy work at the United Nations, conducting legal investigations for the New York Attorney General's Office, marketing for Italy's top television station RAI in Rome, and working as a literary translator for Italian Nobel prize-winning author Dario Fo.

Elizabeth combines what she learned about ritual and meaning at Harvard Divinity School, her literature degree from Harvard College, the rigor of Harvard Law School, and her time studying with the Dalai Lama to think outside the box and address modern challenges at work.

She currently runs 3 organizations: Lead with Compassion, Happiness Sangha, and Self-Compassion for Lawyers.

Elizabeth Pyjov's clients include Bessemer Ventures, Columbia Law School, the New York State Bar Association, Perkins Coie, and Weil Gotshal.

Speakers


We envision a place and time where very high achieving professionals can relax, enjoy, connect, and learn.
— Elizabeth Pyjov

Kellye Y. Testy

Kellye Y. Testy is the executive director and chief executive officer of the Association of American Law Schools which serves as the institutional membership organization for its 175 member law schools and as the learned society for the legal academy.

Prior to joining AALS, Testy served as the president and chief executive officer of the Law School Admission Council, where she led the organization in its committed efforts to advance law and justice by encouraging diverse, talented individuals to study law and by supporting their enrollment and learning journeys from prelaw through practice.

Testy served as dean and professor of law at University of Washington School of Law from 2009 to 2017 and at Seattle University School of Law from 2005 to 2009. She began her career as a law professor at the University of Puget Sound in 1992, which then became Seattle University. As a professor, Testy was an award-winning teacher and an insightful scholar who brought an equity lens to her focus on business and corporate law. Her areas of expertise include leadership, business and corporate law, gender and the law, and legal education. Testy earned her undergraduate degree in journalism from Indiana University in Bloomington, and her law degree from Indiana University Maurer School of Law—Bloomington.

In addition to her role at AALS, she serves on the boards of the Washington Law Institute and LSSSE and teaches law and leadership at a number of law schools across the country.

Yoga Teacher: Larissa Forman

Larisa Forman has been practicing yoga for 20+ years and teaching in the Boston area for over 10 years. Larisa leads workshops and immersions both nationally and internationally, leads a 200 hr Yoga Teacher Training here at The Yoga Loft,  is a frequent presenter at The Nantucket Yoga Festival, and her yoga class was chosen as a part of "The ideal wellness day in Boston" by Well+Good. 

Larisa is a yoga innovator blending the deeply traditional with the latest developments in fitness science, combining the Western obsession with the physical body and the Eastern approach to the Mind/Body/Spirit connection. Larisa received her 200H with PranaVayu Yoga founder David Magone in Boston and her 500H with her beloved guru Sri Dharma Mittra in NYC. Larisa is a Sanskrit enthusiast and loves meditation. Sharing these ancient techniques with the modern-day practitioner brings her tremendous joy :)


HEALING AND CHANGING PATTERNS


The realm of higher education is highly stressful.

The responsibility for making decisions that have significant impact on others’ lives, the routine exposure to emotionally charged and even traumatic situations, and the necessity to remain neutral are all heavy burdens to bear.

During this retreat, you will learn self-compassion and mindfulness practices to recover from the stress and pressure you face in your role as a dean.

In a new environment, it is easier to release old patterns.

When trying new foods, experiencing beauty with all the senses, and connecting to the warmth and friendliness of others, we can begin to heal as we rewire the parts of ourselves that are self-critical and burned out, and rediscover the joy and meaning in life.

Wine has been produced in Ischia for almost 3000 years. It was introduced by the Ancient Greeks in the 8th century BC, and Ischia is still famous all over the world for its wines.

I spent years living in Italy, and the food in Ischia is the most delicious Italian food I’ve ever had.
— Elizabeth Pyjov

L’amore si misura in piatti cucinati – Love is measured in cooked dishes (Italian Proverb)

Local Experience


The owner of the villa where we will be staying owns an organic fruit and vegetable farm, and the food we'll be eating is sourced from there.

All the food for the duration of your stay is included. We will eat fresh fruits, vegetables, pasta, and salads as well as meat, seafood, and fish, with vegan and vegetarian options available.

Special dietary restrictions such as gluten-free, allergies, and sensitivities are happily accommodated.

A lot of the food we will be eating is grown in the garden at the villa.

LOCATION


The retreat will take place at the beautiful Italian villa where we will be staying. Pools of healing mineral hot springs are at your disposal on the property, as well as saunas, Turkish baths, and spas. You’ll enjoy the gorgeous views of the island from the rooftop terrace.

You can lounge in the jacuzzi on the terrace, swim in the pool, enjoy an Aperol Spritz in the courtyard, and have traditional Italian multi-course meals in the dining room while building the future of what the higher education in law will become.

There will be excursions around the island on days 2, 3, and 4.

My goal is to create a truly magical experience for the attendees that positively impacts their life long-term and changes their habits for the better.
— Elizabeth Pyjov

WHAT’S UNIQUE


  • Curated attendee list of deans across the United States and the world

  • To encourage active dialogue and true connection among participants, registration will be limited to 30 attendees

  • Authentic, non-tourist Italian experience: like living in a warm Italian family, with amazing people around the table

  • Daily meditation will help you feel alive, connected, and relaxed

  • This retreat will help you achieve new levels of compassion, which will help you face professional challenges with new strength

  • You’ll come away with new friendships, and you'll learn something new about yourself, your happiness, your well-being, Greek mythology, and Italian culture

ITINERARY


  • Arrive on the island of Ischia on a one-hour boat ride from Naples

  • Aperol spritz or mineral water to refresh you

  • Welcome lunch

  • Soak in the jacuzzi on the rooftop, enjoying the view of Mount Epomeo

  • Italian poetry to welcome you to this experience

  • Mindfulness and Arriving Fully meditation practice

  • Introduction to the history and mythology of the island

  • Learn some key Italian words

  • 5-course dinner with wine

  • Night soak in the thermal hot springs for relaxation – the spa is open for you to use 24/7

All activities are optional

DAY 1: Arrival, Welcome Session, Dinner

  • Morning soak in the thermal pools

  • Morning yoga practice on the roof

  • Buffet breakfast on the terrace in front of the villa with omelettes, fresh fruit, homemade jams, and breads baked that morning

  • Morning cappuccino

  • Morning mindfulness practice

  • Symposium on understanding well-being in the profession of higher education in law

  • Introduction to understanding love in Italian poetry

  • Stroll through the lovely town of Lacco Ameno

  • Visit to Villa Arbusto Archeological Museum

  • Lunch at the best pizzeria on the island

  • Trip to the beautiful San Montano beach

  • Visit to the famous Negombo Park

  • Return to the villa, free time

  • Ancient Greek myths introduction

  • 5-course dinner with wine

  • Evening self-compassion meditation practice

DAY 2: Mindfulness and Joy

  • Morning soak in the thermal pools

  • Morning yoga practice on the roof

  • Buffet breakfast on the terrace with omelettes, fresh fruit, homemade jams, and breads baked that morning

  • Morning cappuccino

  • Morning meditation practice

  • Visit the beautiful gardens Giardini La Mortella gardens

  • Lunch in a restaurant on the beach

  • Free time back at the villa to siesta or sunbathe on the rooftop, soak in the thermal waters, or sip a limoncello on the terrace

  • Italian poetry series and Ancient Greek myths immersion

  • Discussion of how deans can be self-compassionate and achieve excellence

  • Evening compassion practice

  • 5-course dinner with wine

  • Option to explore a local town at night

DAY 3: Self-Compassion, Freedom from the Inner Critic, Leadership of Self

  • Morning soak in the thermal pools

  • Morning yoga practice on the roof

  • Buffet breakfast with omelettes, fresh fruit, homemade jams and breads baked that morning

  • Morning cappuccino

  • Morning meditation practice

  • Centering practice with joy meditation

  • Practical tools to increase happiness and well-being year-round, even upon returning home.

  • Visit to the local winery and lunch at the winery

  • Visit to the Castello Arogonese (Castle Arogonese) built 500 BC, a former abbey of Basilian monks with Eastern Orthodox art

  • Free time back at the villa

  • Optional time to go shopping in the town Lacco Ameno

  • Italian poetry series

  • 5-course dinner with wine and special desserts

  • Night of live music at the villa to celebrate our last evening together

DAY 4: Connecting with Compassion

  • Morning soak in the thermal pools 

  • Morning yoga practice on the roof

  • Buffet breakfast with omelettes, fresh fruit, homemade jams, and breads baked that morning

  • Morning cappuccino

  • Closing session: reflecting and closing the circle

  • Soaking in thermal hot springs at the villa one more time

  • Arrivederci!

  • Boat to Naples (or, if you like, it’s an easy boat ride to Capri, Positano, or Amalfi)

DAY 5: Longterm Benefits and Well-being into the Future

Value

  • 5-day retreat - $1,380

  • Building your own community of deans who are not immediate colleagues - $1,000

  • Italian poetry immersion series - $450

  • Ancient Greek myths psychologically explained - $450

  • Restorative yoga on the roof, walking meditation, and mindful movement daily - $450

  • Therapeutic compassion exercises - $450

  • Gaining a deep understanding of self-compassion - $450

  • Excursions around the island organized by Elizabeth Pyjov - $1,000

  • Short and enjoyable daily Italian lessons with Elizabeth Pyjov - $100

  • Pick up from the airport and drop off at the airport - $100

  • Boat from Naples to Ischia two ways - $100

  • Transportation all over the island during your stay - $150

  • Room - $850

  • Breakfast, lunch, and five-course dinner each day - $1,200

  • Book of Italian poetry from 50 different poets, handpicked by Elizabeth Pyjov - $70

  • Not thinking about anything and not planning - $500

  • Pleasant surprises and extras - $250

  • Lifelong friendships with other deans - Priceless

  • Returning home with greater well-being - Priceless

  • Joy, energy, and inspiration for months to come - Priceless

Total: $8,950

The event fee is $4,225*

Significant other registration: If you want to bring a significant other to share a room with, the fee for them is $3,225. They are invited to participate in all meals and excursions. There will be special sessions for them at the summit.

This payment can be split up into monthly payments over 6 - 12 months, interest-free.

Included

  • All activities of 5-day retreat

  • Farm-to-table meals and traditional multi-course dinners

  • 5 nights with a private room and a private bathroom in a beautiful hotel villa

  • Delicious local wines

  • Excursions around the island

  • Pick up from the airport and drop off at the airport

  • Boat from Naples to Ischia two ways

  • Transportation all over the island during your stay

  • Everything is planned for you and everything is included

  • All activities are optional and you get to make your schedule each day

This Team Will Welcome You


CURRICULUM


The curriculum has four parts:

1) Self-compassion, awareness and joy practice.

2) Compassionate connection to others.

3) A unit on the best of Italian poetry throughout history and the philosophy behind Italian poetry.

4) Healing effects of Ancient Greek mythology and how myths transform our subconscious.

YOUR CONTRIBUTION

$4,225 for the entire experience.

$3,225 for a significant other you share a room with.

Everything in the Value section above is included from the time we pick you up at the airport to the time you leave Ischia. There will be a 5-course dinner each day, lunch out in local restaurants, a sumptuous breakfast buffet, wine at dinner, Aperol Spritz upon arrival, leadership training, and the opportunity to meet the best law school deans and leaders in the industry.

See below for registration links.

This is not just five pleasant days. It’s a launching pad to a new quality of life.
— Elizabeth Pyjov

DETAILS

Dates:June 29 - July 1, 2027

Place: Ischia in Italy

Significant others: Welcome to attend at a reduced fee.

Flights: Fly into the airport in Naples, Italy. There is a direct flight New York - Naples, for example. You can also fly into Rome and take a 1-hour train ride to Naples. You will be picked up at the airport or a train station.

Main Facilitator: Elizabeth Pyjov, JD MTS

HOW TO REGISTER

Registration for deans: here.

Registration for +1: here.

This payment can be split up into monthly payments over 6 - 12 months, interest-free, if you select Affirm or Klarna at checkout at the link below. If you have questions about that, text Elizabeth Pyjov at 650-922-4262.

Plus one participants are welcome to participate in every part of the event (see itinerary).

Those who spend so much time thinking about others need to connect and take care of themselves.
— Elizabeth Pyjov

All ticket sales are final and non-refundable. However, if you're unable to attend, we’re happy to offer a credit equal to the amount paid. This credit can be applied toward a future event.

We’ll See You Soon


Get in Touch

Have any further questions? Please reach out to the event creator and curator.

Elizabeth Pyjov
+1 (650) 922-4262
elizabeth@leadwithcompassion.com

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethpyjov/

If You Can’t Attend &
Want The Benefits

If you can’t make it to this retreat but still want the transformation, there are other ways to join the journey:

Or, if you’d like to chat with Elizabeth Pyjov, you can book a call with here or send a text to 650 -922 -4262.