Mahj Life Instructor Guild > Teaching FACE-TO-FACE and ONLINE, nationwide!

Karen is an American mah jongg instructor who is passionate about helping players discover the challenge, enjoyment, and sense of community the game offers. She teaches beginner and intermediate players using National Mah Jongg League rules, making the game approachable through clear instruction, guided practice, and hands-on learning.

An avid player since 2020, Karen’s passion for mah jongg deepened after relocating to Hays County, Texas, following her retirement from a 40-year career in corporate communications. As she settled into a new community, she discovered that mah jongg was far more than a game—it became a way to build friendships, create meaningful connections, and establish a sense of belonging. That experience inspired her to help others discover the same joy.

Karen believes students learn best when they understand the “why” behind the rules and strategies rather than simply memorizing the mechanics of play. Her teaching emphasizes practical application, thoughtful decision-making, and plenty of guided gameplay, helping students develop both confidence and strategic thinking.

What Karen enjoys most about American mah jongg is its remarkable balance of luck and skill. She believes every hand presents new opportunities to learn, making the game endlessly engaging for players of every experience level. Beyond the strategy, she values the way mah jongg brings people together, encouraging conversation, laughter, and genuine connection while exercising memory, pattern recognition, and decision-making.

Whether introducing a student to their first Charleston or helping an intermediate player refine their strategy, Karen is committed to creating engaging learning experiences that build confidence, foster friendships, and inspire a lifelong appreciation for American mah jongg.

Student Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate

In-Person Lesson Size: Up to 8

Microcredentials:

First Principles Promise: I promise to teach you the first principles of mah jongg using the official rules, giving you a strong foundation and the confidence to play with anyone, anywhere.

Variations Awareness Pledge: I pledge to distinguish house rules from the official rules and help you understand their impact so you can confidently adapt and enjoy the game anywhere.

Pride In Excellence Initiative