News

Pfeiffer University Library publishes unique compilation of microfinance research
“Banking on the Future: Exploring Microfinance as Service, September 29, 2009 Proceedings” is now available

JUNE 21, 2010 — The G.A. Pfeiffer Library at Pfeiffer University has announced publication of “Banking on the Future: Exploring Microfinance as Service, September 29, 2009 Proceedings.”  The book is a unique compilation of stimulating research papers which were presented during Pfeiffer’s first microfinance colloquium held last fall and it is now available for purchase.   

The colloquium was sponsored by the Francis Center for Servant Leadership at Pfeiffer, and brought together people from academia, faith-based microfinance institutions, microfinance practitioners and the servant leadership community to explore the many facets of microfinance. This year’s microfinance colloquium will be held on Friday, Oct. 1 on Pfeiffer’s Charlotte campus, 4701 Park Rd.

According to Dr. Rosemary Minyard, assistant professor of economics and finance at Pfeiffer, many believe that microfinance could be part of a global solution to help the poor – and others – become more self-sufficient, but the debate is contentious. Minyard said she believes the Pfeiffer publication can help people appreciate the complexities of microfinance as an example of servant leadership.

“We think this publication can help people appreciate the complexities of microfinance as an example of servant leadership. This is our first attempt to participate in the dialogue on microfinance which is already broad and growing,” Minyard said. “To be able to know and understand these varying perspectives is a way of making us more effective servant leaders.”

The book features contributions by nationally known and well-respected scholars, theologians, and others and creates a nexus between ideas on microfinance and faith, microfinance and the capital markets, microfinance and critical theory, and microfinance with all its own conflicts.
Minyard, who is a former Wall Street analyst, edited the book and has indicated that the number of poor, unemployed and uninsured around the world is on the rise because of the financial crisis and because economic growth in the United States and other nations is experiencing an astonishing decline. More than 38.8 million people in the U.S. alone are believed to be in poverty, according to a 2008 report released by the U.S. Commerce Department.

“It is imperative that we get a better understanding of a tool like microfinance,” explained Minyard.

The cost of the book is $20. To purchase a copy or to learn more about “Banking on the Future: Exploring Microfinance as Service, September 29, 2009 Proceedings” visit: www.pfeiffer.edu/academics/undergraduate/2009-microfinance-colloquium or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .