11/07/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/07/2024 09:16
BOWLING GREEN, Ohio - Bowling Green State University invites the community to an evening with authors Terese Schlachter '85 and Col. Greg Gadson for a keynote address and book signing for their co-authored book "Finding waypoints: A warrior's journey towards peace and purpose" at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 14, in the Schmeltz Atrium of the Maurer Center.
Based on Gadson's life, the hybrid of biography and autobiography shares the story of a man who survived the worst of a war zone and has since used his experience to enrich the lives of others.
A decorated Army veteran, Gadson is a retired battalion commander and former West Point football player who lost both legs as a result of an IED attack in Iraq.
His waypoints in life were changed drastically by his long, painful recovery, but he emerged as a spiritual guide for the New York Giants, who went from last place to Super Bowl champions in 2008. Gadson also starred in a major motion picture, "Battleship." He has shared his deeply personal story of transformation with thousands of people as a guest speaker, inspiring audiences to consider their own waypoints.
Schlachter, a 1985 BGSU alumna with a degree in radio, television and film, met Gadson while working at the Pentagon as part of an assignment at Walter Reed Army Medical Center where she produced stories about war-wounded military members. As a result of her work, Schlachter received three Emmy Awards for her outstanding coverage of veterans.
Prior to working with the federal government, Schlachter was a journalist in Toledo and at outlets including MSNBC and NBC News. She now runs her own consulting firm, Ridgeback Communications.
As part of the free event, Gadson will share the story of his incredible, heroic journey, while Schlachter will offer insight on how to navigate life's challenges.