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Iraq War veteran and “Soft Spots” memoirist Clint Van Winkle inspires Florida State College students
By Michael Corby Wed, February 15, 2012 7:04 pm EDT
After returning home, the trauma he experienced overseas resulted in a diagnosis of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. His memoir, “Soft Spots,” provides a poignant account of the human connections often overlooked when discussing large issues like war and trauma. Van Winkle will deliver a keynote lecture about his experiences on Feb. 28, 2012, at Florida State College’s Wilson Center on South Campus at 7 p.m.
Over 2,000 FSCJ students are reading his text in interdisciplinary courses, including Psychology, English, Speech, Art, History and even Dental Hygiene. Over 30 professors, both part-time and full-time, are participating from all over the college.
The 2011-2012 annual "Florida State College Author Series Learning Community" is based around Van Winkle's Iraq war memoir. FSCJ has partnered with the Wounded Warrior Project, the U.S. Navy and HeroBox.org for the Soft Spots Learning Community and set up a series of opportunities for our students through the Fall and Spring semesters. These endeavors include lectures, community service learning projects, and even Skype sessions with Mr. Van Winkle himself. The culminating event will be Van Winkle's Feb. 28 lecture. The lecture, sponsored by FSCJ and Bedford/St. Martin's Publishers, is free and open to the public.
Other related events include the following:
• A panel discussion of veterans in the Wounded Warrior Project Track Program who are willing to speak about their personal experiences in combat situations and their experiences adjusting back to civilian life. These personal presentations will be followed by a “controlled Q & A” where students will be able to interact with the panel via pre-screened questions. Thursday, February 16, 2012, South Campus Wilson Center Lakeside Room, 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.
• A screening of Clint Van Winkle’s Documentary, “The Guilt,” followed by a short discussion with faculty and students. The film explores issues of PTSD and survivor’s guilt as it relates to veterans. This powerful documentary poignantly captures major issues many combat personnel struggle with then they return home. Thursday, February 16, 2012, Wilson Center Lakeside Room, 6 – 7:30 p.m.
The lecture, panel discussion and screening of “The Guilt” are free and open to the public.
Media are welcome to attend all of the above events. For information about interviews with Van Winkle, please call Michael Corby at 904-997-2631 or 904-608-0415.