08/31/2026
The Berkana Institute of Massage Therapy is pleased to announce that Hillari Ladd has joined its Board of Directors.
Hillari's relationship with Berkana spans nearly twenty years — first as a student of founder Jill Berkana, then as the first alumni to complete Berkana's International Teacher Training, and then as a teacher herself for six years. Welcome Hillari!
Hillari Ladd brings nearly two decades of experience as a massage therapist, educator, and entrepreneur to the Board of The Berkana Institute.
Her connection to Berkana’s educational lineage began in 2007, when she attended the Costa Rica School of Massage Therapy, founded by Jill Berkana. In 2009, Hillari was invited to return to Costa Rica, as the first alumni to receive Berkana’s International Teacher Training. She continued teaching at the school for the next six years, helping prepare and mentor future massage therapists from around the world.
Alongside her work as an educator, Hillari has maintained a private massage therapy practice for nearly two decades. In 2011, she founded Recherch’e Organics, a small-batch skincare manufacturing company rooted in botanical knowledge, high end formulation, and hands-on craftsmanship.
Hillari’s background brings together therapeutic practice, massage education, business ownership, product development, and a longstanding commitment to the integrity of the massage profession. She is honored to continue her relationship with Jill Berkana’s work by serving on the Board of The Berkana Institute.
