World Renowned Professor of Buddhist Studies to Speak at U of A

Robert Thurman, Professor of Buddhist studies in the Department of Religion at Columbia University, will lecture on “Inner Revolution: Taking Advantage of Hardship and Disaster – Spiritual and Scientific Resources from Tibet” at The University of Arizona Modern Languages Auditorium on Saturday, March 3 at 7:00 PM.

Speaking of his presentation, Thurman says, "What I have learned from the Tibetans has forever changed my life. I believe their culture contains an inner science particularly relevant to the difficult times in which we live. My desire is to share some of the profound hope for our future that they have shared with me."

The New York Times refers to Thurman as "The Dalai Lama's man in America." Professor Thurman has lectured all over the world, and his charisma and enthusiasm draw packed audiences. He is the current President of Tibet House-NY. He is a scholar, author, former Tibetan Buddhist monk, co-founder with Richard Gere of Tibet House in New York City and a close personal friend of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. The father of five children, including the actress, Uma Thurman, he is the Jey Tsong Khapa Professor of Indo-Tibetan Buddhist Studies at Columbia University, the first endowed Chair in this field of study where he serves as president of the board of the American Institute Buddhist Studies. Time Magazine named him one of the "25 Most Influential Americans." He is the author of many books on Tibetan Buddhist religion and culture.

Thurman’s presentation is sponsored by the Arizona Friends of Tibet. Tickets are $15, $6 for students and are available at Antigone Books and the U of A Campus Bookstore.

For additional information or to arrange a telephone interview with Professor Thurman, please contact Michelle Duffy at 647-4887or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .