Kilgore College is honored to welcome author Michael Hingson.
Events September 9, 10, & 11, 2026
Michael Hingson is a World Trade Center survivor, author, and internationally recognized speaker. His life changed dramatically on September 11, 2001, when he and his guide dog, Roselle, escaped from the 78th floor of Tower One in the World Trade Center moments before it collapsed. Soon after, Michael and Roselle were thrust into the international limelight, where Michael began to share his unique survival story and 9/11 lessons of trust, courage, heroism, and teamwork.
He is the author of the #1 New York Times Best Seller: “Thunder Dog –The True Story of a Blind Man, a Guide Dog, and the Triumph of Trust at Ground Zero” – selling over 2.5 million copies worldwide. His book will be available to purchase at Watson Library during the Memorial Exhibit and is also available at this link: get the book.
"No day shall erase you from the memory of time."
From the 9/11 Memorial & Museum “Blue Wall” representing the 2,983 lives lost
Memorial Exhibit at Watson Library
Open August 31 – September 18, 2026
Watson Library will host an exhibit featuring videos, photographs, a timeline, personal community reflections, and World Trade Center artifacts. This exhibit will create a space for remembrance and reflection, honoring the lives affected by that tragic day in our American history.
On September 11, 2001, a blind man escaped the World Trade Center by walking down 78 flights of stairs with his guide dog. Days later, America fell in love with Mike and Roselle and the special bond that helped them both survive one of the country’s darkest days.
Immediately after the 9/11 tragedy, Michael was featured on the Larry King show five times. To quote Larry King… “Michael Hingson is an international hero honored and awarded by top organizations worldwide.” This media exposure changed the course of Michael’s life and launched him into a speaking career that has spanned over nineteen years. He now travels the world as a keynote and inspirational speaker that can motivate audiences to action.
We invite you to share your story of 9/11. By contributing your memories to this museum exhibit, you help bring the reality of that day to life to help honor the courage, the grief, and the profound resilience we found in the wreckage.
