Dr. Darold Treffert to present lecture on Savant Syndrome at UW-Fond du Lac

3/3/2009 - The public is invited to join a free lecture/discussion on Savant Syndrome by Darold Treffert, M.D. at 11 a.m. on March 18 in the LGI Room (UC-114) at the University of Wisconsin-Fond du Lac, 400 University Dr.

The presentation is entitled “Islands of Genius: the autistic, ‘accidental’ and ‘normal’ savant” and it will explore the evidence for dormant potential within all of us.

“New cases and new research techniques have taken Savant Syndrome out of the ‘gee whiz’ category,” said Treffert. “We now have a unique window, not just into the brain and memory function overall, but also an intriguing glimpse into the interface between Savant Syndrome, prodigy, genius and the ‘inner savant’ that may reside within us all.”

The presentation will explore some of those new frontiers.

Dr. Treffert, a Wisconsin psychiatrist, has been studying Savant Syndrome for nearly 40 years. He has published the book “Extraordinary People: Understanding the Savant Syndrome” and maintains a comprehensive web site at www.savantsyndrome.com through the State Medical Society of Wisconsin Foundation which provides information about this remarkable condition and posts up-to-date information about new findings, new savants and new resources for teachers, caretakers and family members.

He has appeared on many television programs including “60 Minutes” and “Oprah.” Dr. Treffert also served as a consultant for the movie “Rain Man” and has recently participated in documentaries produced by companies in England, Germany, Sweden and Korea.

This event is part of a presentation being made to UW-Fond du Lac Biology Professor Elizabeth Hayes’ human physiology and hereditary classes. A question and answer period will follow.

For more information call (920) 929-1100.

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