Pine Grove, Forrest General's Behavioral Health Center of Excellence, welcomes Francine Ward, JD, RScP, to Hattiesburg. Ward is the author of Esteemable Acts: 10 Actions for Building Real Self-Esteem and will speak at the University of Southern Miss Commons at noon, Thursday, Feb. 24. On Friday, Feb. 25, she will hold a book signing from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. at Pine Grove's Books and Gifts, located at 218 S. 28th Ave., Hattiesburg, Miss.

"Francine Ward's visit will be an asset to the community," said Vicki Pevsner, Pine Grove Behavioral Health vice president. "She has overcome many barriers, physical devastations and numerous challenges. Her story of triumph will encourage many people."

Ward is a highly sought after motivational speaker, life coach and Religious Science practitioner. She is president and chief financial officer of her own company, nCompliance, inc., a legal consulting firm, and lectures extensively around the country on self-esteem, recovery from addiction and creating a life worth living.

Ward is a resident of San Francisco Bay area. She is a member of the New York State Bar where she previously practiced law. Ward has also served on the board of directors for several non-profit organizations.

For more information about Ward's book, visit her Web site at www.esteemableacts.com. To find out more about her visit to Hattiesburg, contact FGH OnCall at, 1-800-844-4445.