University of Iowa alumnus Michael Mast returns to campus on Thursday, April 10, to share the “riches” of his job.
But don’t come looking for money. Mast is a craft-chocolate maker whose confections will be on hand for the first 100 people who attend his presentation at 6:30 p.m. in Shambaugh Auditorium, Main Library. The presentation is free and open to the public.
Along with his brother Rick, Mast is the featured guest at the Friends of the University Libraries 50th anniversary gala that evening. But before the ticketed event, the brothers will speak about their new cookbook, Mast Brothers Chocolate: A Family Cookbook.
As might be expected, the book contains recipes for chocolate standards like cookies, cakes, and brownies. But the Mast Brothers do not restrict their repertoire to desserts. They have incorporated their high-quality “bean-to-bar” chocolate into main dishes including Pan-seared Scallops with Cocoa Nibs and Cocoa Coq au Vin.
Mast Brothers chocolate is made only from cacao pods and cane sugar. If a small bite at the presentation just isn’t enough, the Friends of the University Libraries invite you to a $50 Chocolate Reception following the program. This event kicks of the fundraising effort that will support the renovation of the North Exhibition Hall in the Main Library. For more information or tickets, contact the University Libraries at 319-335-5867.
Before they head back to their Brooklyn chocolate factory, the Masts will meet with UI students from the John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, April 11, at Prairie Lights Books to discuss their path to entrepreneurship and offer insights for students interested in starting their own businesses.
Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all UI-sponsored events. If you are a person with a disability who requires a reasonable accommodation in order to attend the Mast brothers’ April 10 presentation, contact University Libraries in advance at 319-335-5867.