Michael Tillman, Member

After two years of college football, I began training in Praying Mantis Kung Fu before moving to Gainesville, FL, in 1975, where I started Tai Chi classes with Paul Campbell and attended summer trainings in New England. A pivotal moment came when Patrick Watson encouraged me to complete the Arica 9 Hypergnostic Systems Training, shifting my perspective on meditation and personal growth. I became an apprentice, attended winter and summer teacher trainings, and eventually taught teachers alongside esteemed colleagues. In 1996, a heart attack led me to step away from teaching Tai Chi and focus on triathlons, but I continued practicing on my own. Professionally, I built a successful career as a tax attorney and investment advisor, founding Tillman Hartley LLC in 1998 before selling it to my partners.

In 2020, I recommitted to Tai Chi, teaching alongside John Doody at Flagler College and expanding classes for advanced students. I remain dedicated to attending Tai Chi trainings and fulfilling my promise to Patrick Watson to support Vicki with Hawaiian Swimming.