In commemoration of the 10th anniversary of the 9-11 attacks, Lake Michigan College is hosting a series of presentations by New York Times best-selling author and World Trade Center survivor Michael Hingson. He will share his incredible story of survival during four presentations and book signings on Monday, Sept. 12, at:
• Mendel Center, Grand Upton Hall, Benton Harbor, 7:45 to 9 a.m., book signing to follow
• South Haven Campus, Campus Lobby, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
• Napier Avenue Campus, Academic Building, Blue Lecture Hall, Room D-105, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.
• Bertrand Crossing Campus, Room BC-109, 6 to 7 p.m.
The presentations are free to attend and open to the public, but a reservation is required. Community members who would like to attend one of the four presentations are asked to contact Kathy Tebell at (269) 927-6197, or Janette Yergeau at (269) 927-8100 ext. 5266 by Wednesday.
Hingson’s book, “Thunder Dog: The True Story of a Blind Man, His Guide Dog, and the Triumph of Trust,” recounts how his guide dog, Roselle, guided him and a group of people down 1,463 steps from the 78th floor of Tower One of the World Trade Center to safety, moments before the building collapsed on Sept. 11, 2001.
Hingson, blind since birth, and Roselle had just arrived at his job in the World Trade Center when American Airline Flight 11 crashed into their building in the terrorist attack. They survived the initial impact and, after descending 78 flights of stairs, and were just 100 yards away from Tower Two when it collapsed. Hingson said his disability gave him and Roselle the ability to respond to the disaster to ensure their survival. After the explosion, Roselle remained calm, and because Hingson trusted her judgment, he did not panic.
Hingson said his blindness and the bond between dog and man saved lives and brought hope during one of America’s darkest days. He shares his message that the life-changing experience gave him to challenge people’s conventional thinking and encourage people to creatively respond to the adversity they face by keeping an open mind.
“We are elated to bring Michael, along with one of his current guide dogs, to our community to tell us about their unique experience, which is truly inspiring,” stated Anne Erdman, LMC vice president of administrative services and special assistant to the president. “We wanted to commemorate 9-11 at Lake Michigan College, and we are delighted to invite the community to join us in hearing this true story of courage and learning to survive in a changing world.”
LMC President Robert Harrison said, “We are fortunate to bring an internationally acclaimed inspirational speaker and author to the community members. It is important that we not forget the trust, courage, heroism and teamwork displayed 10 years ago on 9-11.”