Lama Ugyen Shenpen was a close student of His Holiness Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche. In 1976, who accompanied His Holiness during his first visit to the United States, serving as his attendant and secretary. At the conclusion of the visit, Lama Ugyen remained in the United States and became an invaluable advisor and translator for the Shambhala community until his death in 1994.