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NSU to Host His Holiness the Dalai Lama in First Stop on Tour of Americas  

Historic First-time Visit to Broward County

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. - His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet will make his first-ever visit to Broward County, Florida on Saturday, September 18, 2004. This event at Nova Southeastern University (NSU) will serve as the initial stop in His Holiness’ multi-country visit to Caribbean and the Americas. His last visit to South Florida took place in 1999.

“We are extremely honored that His Holiness has agreed to grace the citizens of Broward County with his presence and message of hope,” said NSU President Ray Ferrero, Jr. “It is fitting that an institution of higher education like Nova Southeastern University, which is focused on bringing people together for the exchange of knowledge, should be the host of this historic event. In the aftermath of Hurricane Charley his message of hope, humanity and compassion can truly serve as inspiration to all Floridians.”

His Holiness will address the public, university students, faculty and staff in an outdoor venue in front of Nova Southeastern University’s Alvin Sherman Library, a joint use facility with Broward County. His address will begin at 10:00 a.m. and be followed with a question and answer period.

During his visit, an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters will also be conferred upon His Holiness by NSU President Ferrero. “NSU is proud to offer His Holiness the Dalai Lama, a man who has done so much to further peace and tolerance in the world, an honorary degree. His teachings, based on mutual respect and compassion are the hallmark of civilized society and speak to the heart of our community,” said Ferrero.

His Holiness will also bless a Buddhist Prayer Wheel hand crafted by Tibetan metal smiths and monks, and generously donated by local philanthropist, Albert J. Miniaci. An interactive holy shrine usually found in Buddhist Temples, the Prayer Wheel contains millions of prayers. Each time the Prayer Wheel is turned, prayers are sent out to all of mankind. It will remain on permanent display within the NSU library in commemoration of His Holiness’ historic visit.

“Regardless of the city, state or country to which His Holiness travels, his objectives are always global in scope,” said Mr. Nawang Rabgyal, representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to the Americas. “His goals are to promote basic human values; to promote inter-religious harmony and world peace; and to look after the welfare of the Tibetan people and the preservation of the Tibetan cultural heritage.”

While the event is free to the public, tickets will be required for admission. Tickets and information may be obtained through the Broward Center of the Performing Arts “AutoNation Box Office” by calling 954-462-0222 or visit our website at www.miniacipac.com.

A security check for all who attend will be made prior to entering the venue. No cell phones, cameras, recording devices, backpacks or packages of any kind will be allowed.

Editors Note: Credentials are required to cover this event and are non-transferable. Details on the credentialing process will be available Monday, August 30 at www.miniacipac.com.