A free self-defense seminar will be held on Feb. 23 in the Ballroom on the second floor of the Henry Student Center, beginning at 11:30 a.m. and ending at 12:30 p.m.

In addition to receiving a free T-shirt, students in attendance will learn some basic skills that can protect them in the event of an emergency situation.

Kellie Palko, president of the Veterans Council, who organized the seminar, says the overall goal of the seminar is to keep students safe by preparing them for the worst.

“Our goal is teaching students how to get out of a tough situation. Wilkes-Barre is not the safest place at night. Knowing some of these defensive moves can help them someday,” Palko said.

An Army Sergeant named Mike Ortiz will be holding the seminar. Palko says that “he will be teaching techniques involving punching and kicking.”

Dr. Edward Schicatano, associate professor of psychology, strongly endorses the seminar. Schicatano has a second degree black belt and has participated in martial arts and self defense for 10 years.

“I think it’s great that Wilkes is offering such an important event,” Schicatano said. “Students need to learn self defense because public safety can’t be everywhere at all times.”

According to Schicatano, the confidence that comes from the basic skills students can learn at the seminar can lead them in the direction of becoming effective in defending themselves.

“The first step in self defense is to NOT look like a victim. Being aware of your environment is the second step. After you learn some basic defense skills, you need to have the right attitude – that you will fight an attacker if you have to,” he said.

Students can contact Kellie Palko for any further questions regarding the seminar: [email protected].