SoMo Tech director highlights career paths and DKG meeting

Dr. Josh Cotter, director of the Southern Missouri Technical Institute in West Plains, speaks to the DKG Xi Chapter during its Sept. 19 meeting at the West Plains Country Club, as newly installed chapter President Carol Silvey listens at right. Cotter discussed the institute's two-year block courses offered to juniors and seniors from 13 area schools. The programs — which include auto body and collision repair, auto mechanics technology, carpentry, commercial and advertising art, culinary arts, health sciences, a nursing early admissions track and welding technology — are designed to expand career opportunities for students beyond traditional academic paths. During the morning business session, Silvey was awarded the president's pin and ReBena Atkinson was elected second vice president. The chapter also hosted a silent auction for its yearly scholarships, announced an upcoming Dec. 5 bake sale at Hirsch's Feed & Farm Supply and planned its November meeting in Eminence, which will feature the Cross Country Trail Rides. Other meeting highlights included a cookie auction, a plaque presentation for longtime member Anna Mae Burkhead, and door prizes awarded to Atkinson and Brenda Smith.