HAYS, Kan. -- Darrell Hamlin, in collaboration with Christie and Curt Brungardt, has made steady progress on a manuscript that shares the story of Jana Mackey’s legacy.  Under the working title: Carrying the Torch: Moving from Private Grief to Public Action, the authors explore the unfortunate twist of fate that a woman who fought to protect women herself, became a victim of violence.  However, that’s only the beginning of the story.  The book also focuses on her dedicated parents continuing her work.  “It has been a pleasure working with Darrell on this manuscript,” says Curt Brungardt, Jana’s stepfather.  “We are nearly two years into this project, and I am happy with the progress we are making.”

“Clearly, this is a story about a tragedy,” says Hamlin.  “However, and more importantly, this is an inspiring story about public action.”  The purpose of the book focuses on five elements:

1. it hopes to raise awareness of Jana Mackey’s life and death and the important work of confronting domestic
   violence;
2. it shares Christie and Curt’s own journey from private grief to engagement in the public arena;
3. it supports others in a similar situation with Christie and Curt’s insight and experience;
4. it challenges entrenched issue-oriented public policy groups to be more effective in the fight against domestic
   violence; and
5. it demonstrates that grief combined with action is a critical part of healing and an effective approach to leading
   social and political change.

“The Brungardts are determined to play a role in reducing violence against women,” says Hamlin.  “They are facing obstacle after obstacle, and yet, they remain more determined than ever to carry on the work that their daughter started.”  Currently, the authors are actively seeking the right national publisher that will share their powerful story.

About Darrell Hamlin
Darrell A. Hamlin is a Senior Fellow at the Center for Civic Leadership, Fort Hays State University.  He holds an M.A. and Ph.D. in Political Science from Rutgers University, and a B.A. in American Studies from Baylor University.  He has taught at Rutgers University, Spring Hill College, and Fort Hays State University.  His scholarship, teaching, and service have received awards, and he has been the recipient of grants for research and for educational development.    To pursue his passion for the unfolding narrative of democracy and citizenship, in 2008 Hamlin founded Civic Monkey, LLC as a vehicle for bringing untold stories of activism, service, and civic engagement to public attention through the mainstream media. As a writer, educator, consultant and coach, he focuses on civic renewal, leadership, and expanded narratives of public life.  Hamlin provides commentary for print and broadcast media, and he is a contributing blogger at everydaycitizen.com and kansasfreepress.com.

# # #