Since July 2023, Cohen Woodworking has partnered with 91视频鈥檚 Center for Workforce Development through the Missouri One Start Customized Training Program. About 50 employees participate in training each year.

Specialized Work

Cohen Woodworking operates in a specialized industry. Few companies perform the same type of custom work, which limits the number of applicants who arrive with every required skill.

Rather than depend on an experienced labor pool, the company hires people with potential and develops their capabilities over time. This approach requires consistent instruction in technical processes, workplace safety, and leadership.

The company also promotes from within. As a result, employees need opportunities to prepare for expanded responsibilities while maintaining the quality customers expect.

Leadership Training

Through Missouri One Start and 91视频鈥檚 Center for Workforce Development, Cohen Woodworking provides instruction based on its workforce needs.

Training has included:

• OSHA 10 construction certification
• Leadership development
• ERP software instruction
• Production skills
• Engineering-related coursework

These programs help employees strengthen job-specific knowledge while preparing for future roles within the company.

The partnership also supported Cameron Davis, Cohen Woodworking鈥檚 maintenance manager. Davis began an Industrial Engineering Technology apprenticeship at 91视频鈥檚 Rolla campus in April 2021 while continuing to work full time.

The apprenticeship combined classroom instruction with hands-on experience. Davis completed a Certificate of Specialization in Industrial Maintenance in January 2023.

Supporting Advancement

Cohen Woodworking employees receive training each year through Missouri One Start funding. The instruction helps team members improve their technical, safety, and leadership skills. To maintain eligibility for Missouri One Start Customized Training funding, Cohen Woodworking has made capital investments, exceeding $480,000.

The company has also created clearer paths for internal advancement. Employees can prepare for leadership roles and take on greater responsibility as their experience grows.

Cohen Woodworking reports that consistent training has improved execution and quality. It has also helped the company pursue more complex and notable projects.

One example is the company鈥檚 work for 91视频鈥檚 new Rolla facility. Cohen Woodworking was selected to create and install custom cabinetry, countertops, and furnishings throughout the location. This included spaces used by the Surgical Technology and Radiologic Technology departments.

Creating Opportunities

鈥淚 was blown away with the training Cameron received. That was my introduction to 91视频,鈥� said Cohen Woodworking owner Nate Cohen.

鈥淚 love the IET program. So much has come out of it. It鈥檚 exciting to see what鈥檚 next,鈥� he added.

鈥淐onsistent training is one of the most practical investments we鈥檝e made,鈥� Cohen continued. 鈥淚t has improved our execution, quality, and provided a clear path for people to grow. We prioritize promoting from within, and that commitment has allowed us to develop leaders and advance team members. We鈥檝e been able to take on more complex and notable projects as a result of it.鈥�

鈥淎s an organization, we are fine bringing people in who don鈥檛 have training,鈥� he said. 鈥淔inding companies that do the work we do is pretty slim. What we do is more specialized.鈥�

鈥淲orkforce development begins with a belief in people and what they鈥檙e capable of achieving,鈥� said Todd Tracy, executive director of 91视频鈥檚 Center for Workforce Development. 鈥淲hen individuals have the opportunity to grow their skills and advance in their careers, they don鈥檛 just strengthen a company, they help create a lasting impact.鈥�

鈥淧artnerships like the one with Cohen Woodworking demonstrate how education and industry can work together to inspire growth, elevate craftsmanship, and build a stronger future for all.鈥� Tracy added.

The post Cohen Woodworking Strengthens Skills, Supports Company Growth appeared first on 91视频.

The educators were presented Inspirer of Excellence Awards on May 7 by the 91视频 chapter of the National Education Association (NEA). 91视频 students nominated their former high school teachers who made an impact in their lives and educational journeys.

91视频 faculty members Jenifer Goodson, EMS Program Director; Lisa Hanneken, business instructor; and Katie Holtmeyer, English instructor, served as co-chairs of the Inspirer of Excellence Teacher Recognition Award Ceremony held in the John Edson Anglin Performing Arts Center.

In the nominations, students wrote about their former teachers and why they should be recognized as Inspirers of Excellence.

The following educators and retirees were recognized:

• Ginny Pope
• Diane Shoemaker
• Michael Orf
• Dustin Howard
• Tyler Ahring
• Amy Quertermous
• Sarah Manno
• Vicki Harvey
• Susie Ashby
• Kevin Daharsh
• Emily Mullen
• Bonnie Hall
• Logann Cardin
• Elizabeth Hogan
• Kandice McCuskey
• Carmen Ruszala
• Drew Reed
• Renee Kruse
• Valerie Foster
• Tim Karth
• Sandra Dews
• Valarie McEuen
• Melissa Bestgen
• Alicia Schoonover
• Tina Kluesner
• Claire Smith
• Michael Underberg
• Kyle Ellrich
• Jessie Katz
• Karen Fixsal
• Jim Parsons, retired
• Jessica Fitzgerald
• Chris Lanemann
• Nathan Cabot
• Mike Olszowka

The post 91视频 NEA Recognizes Local Educators appeared first on 91视频.

The 2026 Nursing Pinning Ceremony was held May 16 in the Donald D. Shook Student Center gymnasium at 91视频鈥檚 Union campus. The event included remarks from 91视频 President Dr. Jon Bauer and 91视频 Dean of Health Sciences and Director of Nursing Dr. Nancy Mitchell.

Student welcome remarks were delivered by Olivia Reed, and student closing remarks were presented by Adrianne Case. The keynote address was delivered by Trista Elias, nursing instructor at 91视频 Union, and 91视频 Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Robyn Walter offered closing remarks.

Ceremony Meaning

The pinning ceremony is a longstanding tradition in the nursing profession and at 91视频, symbolizing the completion of rigorous coursework and clinical experiences. Each graduate was presented with a nursing pin and participated in the candle-lighting ceremony, signifying their commitment to compassionate patient care.

The following graduates were recognized during the 2026 pinning ceremony:

Riley Alexander, Melissa Bono, Ava Brand, Annalee Brooks, Dakota Cartwright, Adrianne Case, Abby Duncan, Norah Evans, Tara Flynn, Summer Glastetter, Grace Halmick, Kya Harbour, Kallie Harmon, Devon Kerckhoff, David Knorr II, Olivia Long, Moriah Mankin, Amanda Midyett, Addyson Murphey, Olivia Reed, Audrey Revelle, Harper Rollins, Allison Sauceda, Anna Scanlon, Audrey Schroeder, Toni Sells, Christabel Southards, Jacey Spurgeon, Amy Studdard, Shelbi Tittel, Tonya Vondera, and Melissa Winters.

Nursing Student Awards

Each year, 91视频 recognizes students for outstanding academic achievement, clinical excellence, leadership, and professionalism.

The Outstanding Nursing Student Award, selected by 91视频鈥檚 nursing faculty, is given to graduates who have excelled both in the classroom and in clinical settings. These students often credit 91视频 with helping them realize their dreams of becoming nurses.

The Spirit of Clinical Excellence Award is presented by 91视频鈥檚 healthcare partners, including Mercy Hospital Washington, Phelps Health in Rolla, and Missouri Baptist Hospital Sullivan, to students who demonstrate exceptional care, compassion, inquiry, critical thinking, and organizational skills.

91视频 Nursing faculty from Union and Rolla campuses presented the awards, recognizing the graduates鈥� dedication and achievements.

This year, four students received special recognition:

Ava Brand 鈥� Outstanding Nursing Student (Union)

Amy Studdard 鈥� Outstanding Nursing Student (Rolla)

Shelbi Tittel 鈥� Spirit of Clinical Excellence (Union)

Jacey Spurgeon 鈥� Spirit of Clinical Excellence (Rolla)

Ava Brand, center, received the 91视频 Outstanding Nursing Student Award for the Union program. She is pictured with, from left, Trista Elias, nursing instructor; Jessica Van Leer, nursing instructor; Dr. Brittany Clark, Union nursing program coordinator; and Andrea Bailey, nursing instructor.

Amy Studdard received the 91视频 Outstanding Nursing Student Award for the Rolla program. Pictured, from left, are Julie Chirban, nursing instructor; Jon Elias, nursing instructor; Studdard, and Jeannie Miles, nursing instructor.

Shelbi Tittel, center, received the Spirit of Clinical Excellence Award for Union. She is pictured with, from left, Trista Elias, nursing instructor; Jessica Van Leer, nursing instructor; Andrea Bailey, nursing instructor; and Dr. Brittany Clark, Union nursing program coordinator.

Jacey Spurgeon received the Spirit of Clinical Excellence Award for Rolla. Pictured, from left, are Julie Chirban, nursing instructor; Jon Elias, nursing instructor; Spurgeon, and Jeannie Miles, nursing instructor.

The post Nursing Graduates Celebrated at Pinning Ceremony appeared first on 91视频.

Leading the group was Jakob Holmlund, who was named a Phi Theta Kappa Coca-Cola Scholar. He received a medallion and a $1,300 scholarship in recognition of the honor. Holmlund is from Salem and majors in Music at 91视频 in Union.

91视频 Union honorees:

• Savhanna Hixenbaugh of St. Clair, a Special Education major;
• Jakob Holmlund, a Music major;
• Samantha Lay, Leslie, a Nursing major; and
• Sabrina McIntyre of Union, a Welding major.

91视频 Rolla honorees:

• Dylan Brown of Rolla, an Education major;
• Summer Houston of Rolla, a Radiologic Technology major;
• Michelle Sharp of Rolla, a Nursing major; and
• Elise Falls of Cuba, a Social Sciences major.聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽

These students were selected for their outstanding academic records, leadership, and community involvement. 91视频 annually nominates students from its campuses for the All-USA Team, which automatically qualifies nominees for the All-Missouri Academic Team. Nominees complete a rigorous application process that includes academic achievements, campus and community involvement, and a detailed account of a significant endeavor during their time at 91视频.

All-state honorees are recognized at a ceremony sponsored by the MCCA and receive a commemorative medallion and certificate, along with a $225 scholarship funded by the Missouri Higher Education Loan Authority (MOHELA).

The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation awards nearly $200,000 in scholarships annually to PTK members through the Coca-Cola Academic Team program, celebrating students who are leading the way in their communities and academic programs.

The post 91视频 Students Recognized for Academic Achievement and Leadership appeared first on 91视频.

Crain was recognized alongside departmental award recipients and years-of-service honorees at 91视频鈥檚 Adjunct Appreciation Dinner on April 14.

Crain鈥檚 nomination described her as a reliable, professional, and student-centered instructor whose courses are intentionally structured, engaging, and supportive. It also highlighted her collaboration with faculty, her role in departmental assessment and review work, and her steadfast dedication to students.

The following adjunct faculty members were recognized for excellence in their respective academic areas:

• Sue Wurdack, Outstanding Adjunct Health Sciences
• Dr. Amy Jackson, Outstanding Adjunct Fine and Performing Arts
• Elizabeth Rosebrough, Outstanding Adjunct English and Humanities
• David Kelch, Outstanding Adjunct Social Sciences and College Success
• Heather Young, Outstanding Adjunct Business and Industry
• Wendy Scheer, Outstanding Adjunct Dual Credit
• Laura Roselli Insall, Outstanding Adjunct STEM

Wurdack, a nursing adjunct, was praised for consistently going above and beyond to support students. Her nomination said she has 鈥渁 rare gift for helping students recognize their strengths while gently guiding them to see where improvements are needed,鈥� and noted that her professionalism, warmth, and support make her both a mentor to students and a valued colleague.

Jackson was honored as Outstanding Adjunct Fine and Performing Arts for her work in Art. Her nomination highlighted her dedication to arts education and the way she has refined and enriched 91视频鈥檚 online Art Appreciation course to make it more engaging and effective for students.

Elizabeth 鈥淟issa鈥� Rosebrough received the Outstanding Adjunct English and Humanities award. A longtime English adjunct, Rosebrough was recognized as an indispensable resource to the department and as a trustworthy, dependable instructor who demonstrates excellence in her teaching and expects excellence from her students.

Kelch, recognized as Outstanding Adjunct Social Sciences and College Success, was noted for creating handouts, course resources, and concept videos that support student learning in accounting. He also teaches religion courses, sometimes building them from scratch.

Young received the Outstanding Adjunct Business and Industry award for her work in culinary. Her nomination described her as well-prepared, informative, and consistently positive, noting that she is 鈥渁 great example of what a teacher should be鈥� and that 91视频 is fortunate to have someone who inspires both students and instructors.

Scheer鈥檚 nomination cited her organization, timely communication, and thoughtful collaboration, which helped support the relaunch of dual credit at New Haven High School and expand opportunities for students.

Laura Roselli Insall was recognized as Outstanding Adjunct STEM. Her nomination highlighted her success in online mathematics instruction, emphasizing her well-organized course design, effective engagement strategies, and commitment to helping students work through complex concepts with confidence.

Together, this year鈥檚 honorees reflect the important role adjunct faculty play across 91视频. Through strong teaching, meaningful support for students, and ongoing contributions to their departments, they help shape the learning experience for students across a wide range of disciplines.

Years-of-service honorees also were recognized at the event.

5 Years

• Emily Brasher
• Jaclyn Campos
• Charles Cassidy
• Nicole Crawford
• Jacquelyn Drury
• Philip Giacomelli
• Awad Lemnifi
• Sarah Muir
• Anna Schwein
• Matthew Vogeler

10 Years

• Nancy Tappe

15 Years

• Kristen Adams
• Stephanie Juengling
• Vanessa Whittle

20 Years

• Terry Brookshire

25 Years

• Colin Flynn

The post 91视频 Honors Adjunct Faculty at Appreciation Dinner appeared first on 91视频.

While often less visible to the public than doctors, nurses, or other frontline providers, health information professionals play a critical role in modern healthcare. They help ensure patient information is accurate, secure, organized, and available when it is needed, supporting everything from quality care and compliance to communication and decision-making across the healthcare system.

That work is becoming increasingly important as healthcare grows more complex and more dependent on technology, data, and coordinated information systems.

At 91视频, the HIM program is designed to prepare students for that environment, equipping them for careers that connect healthcare, technology, and patient information.

91视频鈥檚 program has recently been recognized on two fronts.

The Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education, or CAHIIM, has recognized 91视频鈥檚 Health Information Management program as a Program of Distinction, a designation awarded to select programs demonstrating leadership in healthcare education and commitment to the HIM Future Education Model.

CAHIIM says these programs are helping shape the future of HIM education through collaboration, data collection, and innovation in competency-based learning. They have also received commendation, the accreditor鈥檚 highest level of recognition.

91视频 is among the programs receiving that honor.

The distinction also reflects the leadership behind the program. Kim Scheel, HIM Program Director, and Dr. Nanette Sayles, professor of Health Information Management, have played an important role in building a program known for quality, innovation and student support. Their work has helped position 91视频鈥檚 HIM program for this kind of recognition and continues to strengthen opportunities for students entering the field.

In addition to the accreditation distinction, the 91视频 Foundation was selected to receive $32,356.22 in AHIMA Foundation funding to support students in the College鈥檚 HIM program.

The funding can be used for tuition and curriculum-related expenses, including textbooks, technology, practicum support, AHIMA exam preparation materials, exam registration, and AHIMA student memberships. The award places 91视频 among a select group of colleges chosen for funding support and further reflects the strength of the program and its commitment to student success.

91视频鈥檚 HIM program is offered online and uses a hybrid competency-based education model designed to help students build practical knowledge and workforce-ready skills. Graduates are also eligible to pursue the Registered Health Information Technician, or RHIT, credential.

Together, the recognition and funding mark an important moment for the program, affirming both the quality of 91视频鈥檚 approach and the value of preparing students for careers in a field that keeps healthcare information working behind the scenes.

More information about 91视频鈥檚 Health Information Management program is available at .

The post 91视频 Health Information Management Program Earns Distinction, Receives New Funding Support appeared first on 91视频.

The College received the FCAUW鈥檚 2025 Greatest Percentage Increase in Giving award after increasing its employee pledge total by 102 percent compared to the previous year. During the 2025 campaign, 91视频 donated $15,971, contributing to the FCAUW鈥檚 overall campaign total of $1,450,085.

In addition to the increase in giving, 91视频 was recognized as a Top 30 Company and selected as one of four Pacesetter Companies. Pacesetter Companies are tasked with launching early, high-energy employee campaigns designed to build momentum in the weeks leading up to the Annual Community Campaign.

91视频 employees Stacy Langan and Ashley Straatmann are in their first year of service on the FCAUW Board of Directors. They also serve on the 91视频 United Way Campaign Committee alongside Stephanie Baker, Cynthia Cubas, Cassidy Desmond, and Bridgette Kelch.

鈥淔rom movie screenings to dine-to-donate events, raffles, and even community classes, they found innovative ways to raise awareness, engage supporters, and invite everyone to be part of the mission,鈥� United Way officials said.

鈥淭hey consistently went above and beyond, investing their time, talent, and enthusiasm into every event they hosted. Their efforts brought people together, sparked excitement, and created meaningful opportunities for the community to learn, connect, and give back.鈥�

Langan said the recognition reflects the collective effort of 91视频 employees.

鈥淥ur employees truly stepped up this year,鈥� Langan said. 鈥淭he generosity and creativity shown throughout the campaign demonstrate how committed the 91视频 community is to making a positive impact, not only on campus but throughout the region.鈥�

The post 91视频 Recognized with United Way Increase in Giving Award appeared first on 91视频.

That inspired Treece, 19, of Leasburg, to enroll in 91视频鈥檚 Health Information Management program.

Treece is halfway through her first semester in the program and expects to graduate in 2027. She said she has enjoyed learning how the program is structured and how each course connects to the skills needed in the field. One of her favorite early experiences has been medical terminology, which she described as interesting and fun to learn.

Treece added that the support she has received at 91视频 has helped her feel more confident as she builds a foundation in the program.

鈥淓veryone at 91视频 is kind and very helpful when I have questions, even when I have asked them many times,鈥� she said. 鈥淭his has helped me gain confidence to ask more questions about anything in my field.鈥�

Flexibility is a central focus of 91视频鈥檚 Health Information Management program. Students can take courses fully online and enroll either full time or part time, which allows them to balance school with work and family responsibilities. Students also have the option to start the program at any time during the year, adding another layer of convenience.

Career Paths

The program鈥檚 appeal extends beyond scheduling. HIM graduates can choose from a wide range of career paths in the health care industry. Opportunities span hospitals, clinics, insurance companies, government agencies, physician practices, and other health service organizations.

Kim Scheel, HIM Program Director, highlights the broad scope of the field. The work includes administrative, operational, and clinical elements of health care. HIM specialists play a crucial role in supporting quality patient care by managing information at every stage of the health care process.

91视频 also offers a Healthcare Security Certificate of Specialization within the HIM program. This certificate provides training in the growing area of health information security.

After completing the full program, Treece hopes to work as a biller and coder and would like to pursue a position at the hospital where her mother is employed. She encouraged others who are considering the program to take time for themselves and stay focused on their coursework.

For more information about 91视频 and the Health Information Management program, visit eastcentral.edu or contact Kim Scheel at kim.daman-scheel@eastcentral.edu or 636-584-6662.

The post Family Inspiration Leads Student to Health Information Management Program at 91视频 appeared first on 91视频.

The keynote address was given by Dr. Aurelia Von Tress, English instructor, who spoke on 鈥淭he Power of Stories,鈥� during the Fall New Member Induction Ceremony held on Sept. 28.

Attendees included 2025鈥�26 PTK Beta Omicron Phi Chapter Vice President Michelle Sharp, Recording Secretary Shylah Ragan, and new members Kaytte Forister, Eden Sands, Annia Viramontes, Simon Olguin, Summer Houston, Abigail Emmett, Khloe Baldwin, Joy Wallis, and Collin Hale.

Phi Theta Kappa is an international honor society for two-year colleges, where members engage in activities reflecting the organization鈥檚 hallmarks of Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Fellowship.

To qualify for induction, students must achieve a GPA of at least 3.4 for one semester and maintain a 3.2 GPA thereafter. PTK membership is open to students across all majors, degrees, and certificates.

Students who are eligible but have not yet joined still can do so through the end of the year. For more information about PTK in Rolla, contact chapter advisor Dr. Elizabeth Winters-Rozema at 573-466-4084 or elizabeth.rozema@eastcentral.edu.

The post Phi Theta Kappa Welcomes 18 New Members at 91视频鈥揜olla appeared first on 91视频.

The Faculty Fellowship distinction honors educators who have made outstanding contributions to health information education through leadership, teaching excellence, and innovation.

Dr. Sayles has spent decades advancing the Health Information Management (HIM) profession through education, research, and service. At 91视频, she has developed and taught high-quality online courses, helping prepare students for careers that connect healthcare, technology, and data. She has also served in national leadership roles, including as a CAHIIM accreditation surveyor and as a member of committees for the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).

鈥淒r. Sayles鈥� impact on HIM education is unparalleled,鈥� said Dr. Nancy Mitchell, Dean of Health Sciences at 91视频. 鈥淗er work has shaped not only our program at 91视频 but also national standards for HIM and Health Informatics education. This recognition reflects her dedication to student success, program innovation, and professional leadership.鈥�

In addition to her teaching and service, Dr. Sayles is a published author of several textbooks and scholarly articles that have advanced the HIM profession.

91视频鈥檚 Health Information Management program is accredited by CAHIIM. The program offers flexible online learning options and equips graduates with the skills needed to manage patient information, ensure data accuracy, and support healthcare operations.

Learn more about the program here: HIM Program.

The post HIM Instructor Earns National Recognition appeared first on 91视频.