Dr. Rogelio Garcia-Contreras, University of St. Thomas professor of International Studies, is presenting a lecture on microcredit and microloans worldwide from 6:30-9:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 22 at Whole Foods Market as part of an Evening of Global Awareness.

The evening will begin with International Cuisine prepared by Gwen Marzano, the Whole Foods Market Healthy Eating Specialist and a presentation on basic cooking tips. Following the presentation, Garcia-Contreras will discuss the power of micro-loans and how they are helping to eradicate poverty in many countries. The evening will end with a wine reception for all guests in attendance. Tickets are $25 per person and $15 for students with valid ID.  For more information, visit the Kirby Whole Foods website.

Garcia-Contreras is the founder and director of the UST Micro Credit Program. He conducts research on microfinance, development, poverty alleviation and service learning. The author of several academic articles for a variety of journals, he serves as an editor of the Journal for Peace Studies, a consultant for Centro Fox and he is a regular contributor of Literal Magazine.