CYPRESS : Sex-Abuse Seminar Is Scheduled Today

Donna Freiss, a Cypress College professor who gained public attention after going public with her story of sexual abuse by her father, will conduct a seminar today on “Healing Dysfunctional Relationships.”

The workshop is part of the college’s ongoing “Brown Bag It!” seminars, which are sponsored by the Re-Entry Center and the Associated Students. Freiss, a professor for 24 years, will focus on learning tools to improve personal interaction.

After telling her story to The Times in August, she has made several public appearances to discuss her 40-year ordeal with her father, Raymond Lewis, who was convicted in 1990 of molesting his 5-year-old granddaughter.

The free seminar will be held from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. in the Humanities Building, Room H-136.

Freiss’ talk will be followed next week by “When Living Hurts: A Workshop for Adults Who Were Molested As Children.” Jeri Neiman will present the seminar, which will focus on family dynamics and the effects of incest and sexual molestation on self-esteem, identity and development.

Information: (714) 826-4511.