What is Buddhism?
Foundation leader prepares public for Dalai Lama's visit
by JILL SCHMELZER Reporter

Frank Howard, director of the Amitabha Foundation, which works to preserve Tibetan culture, spoke at the University at Buffalo Anderson Gallery Thursday. He will educate the public during a three-part session in preparation for The Dalai Lama's visit to the university, which will occur Sept. 18-20. Howard's next lecture will be Thursday, Aug. 17 at the gallery. Photo by John Rusac

Frank Howard, a Rochester attorney and Buddhist meditation practitioner, educated members of the public Thursday in preparation for the Dalai Lama's Sept. 18-20 visit to the University at Buffalo.

The 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, will speak at the UB North Campus on Tuesday, Sept. 19. He will also participate in smaller instructional sessions with faculty and students, as well as an interfaith service with representatives from local religious communities.

The Dalai Lama, spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism and recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, will address the theme of promoting peace across borders through education.

But why should the Western World be interested in Tibet and the Dalai Lama?

"We in the West know nothing about it generally," said Howard, the chief adviser and director of the Amitabha Foundation, which works to preserve Tibetan culture.

Howard, who spoke at the UB Anderson Gallery, was asked by representatives at UB to educate those interested in Tibetan Buddhism in a three-part lecture series about the Dalai Lama, his religion and country.

The remaining two discussions will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 17 and 24 at the gallery, one Martha Jackson Place in Buffalo.

Williamsville resident Nilima Paul, like many others in attendance, wanted to know more about the Dalai Lama.

"He represents so many things that are important to me and the rest of the world," said Pat Sorbini of Buffalo. "I want to see him - with knowledge."