By: Sierra Force ’20, La Vie staff writer

Lebanon Valley College is currently buzzing with topics of veterans and war, from Suzanne H. Arnold Art Gallery’s latest art installation titled “Witness To War,” to veterans from the Lebanon VA hosting their own video event to be held at the gallery.

New to the calendar is another educational event dedicated to art, writing and wellness. Frederick Foote is a retired U.S. Navy physician and an author. Foote will appear on campus for a lecture and writing workshop on Thursday, Nov. 15, in Zimmerman Recital Hall of the Suzanne H. Arnold Art Gallery.

“Frederick Foote leads the Epidaurus Project which aims to integrate whole-person care in hospitals and clinics throughout the U.S. Military Health System,” Dr. Barbara McNulty, director of Suzanne H. Arnold Art Gallery and assistant professor of art history, said.

Foote’s lecture will focus on the healing and coping process of life’s harsh realities and how writing and art can have a large role in the positive ways in which we heal. Following the lecture, Foote, will host an interactive writing workshop.

“This workshop highlights the integral role that the arts and humanities play in wellness and well-being,” Holly Wendt, assistant professor of English and director of creative writing, said. “This workshop is an opportunity to see creative practice in action and engage in it.”

The event is free and open to the public, however sign-ups are necessary as there will be a lunch provided between the lecture and workshop.

“One of the most important things a writer can do is to keep learning and keep trying new things,” Wendt said. “It’s very easy to get stuck in one’s habits or comfort zones, so I am excited to be a participant and take part in writing away from my own desk and classroom.”

“I am looking forward to learning how he structures the workshop as a teaching tool,” McNulty said.

Foote’s journey as a retired physician is a unique one that reminds writers how their ambitions of writing are not always recognized early on in life, but instead cued by a distinct event, lifestyle and realization.

This opportunity is geared toward a variety of majors, including art, creative writing and English, as well as history. Join Frederick Foote and fellow students to learn more about the power of the arts and healing