Greg Mortenson, a philanthropist, world-renowned author and Nobel Peace Prize nominee, will enlighten the Western New York Community about his quest to change and impact the lives of children in Middle-Eastern countries Wednesday night at Alumni Arena.
The co-author of Three Cups of Tea, a New York Times best-selling novel and the 2010 UB Reads selection, has been striving to promote peace through books while bringing both education and hope to communities. Mortenson has established over 131 schools to date in various remote regions in Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Providing an education to over 58,000 children, Mortenson has co-founded the not-for-profit Central Asia Institute and currently serves as its executive director. He also founded the Pennies for Peace organization. Time Magazine selected Three Cups of Tea as the Asian Book of the Year, and it has been published in 41 countries.
Mortenson was awarded the Sitara-e-Pakistan ("Star of Pakistan"), Pakistan's highest civil award, in 2009 for his constant dedication and philanthropic efforts in promoting education and literacy for underprivileged children for over fifteen years.
"Greg is a tireless champion whose sacrifices have taken him where many outsiders dare not go," said California Congresswoman Mary Bono in an interview with Parade magazine. "His vision reinforces America's ideals of compassion. He is an American hero."
Mortenson will take the stage at 8 p.m. in Alumni Arena. Tickets can be purchased at the Alumni Arena box office or at any Ticketmaster location. Free tickets are available for students at the Student Association office.
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