The Ava Lions Club hosted the October luncheon meeting of the Ava Area Chamber of Commerce Tuesday. Guest speaker was Dr. Chris Dyer from Missouri State University-West Plains, who spoke on the adult program, GOAL.
Through the Great Opportunities for Adult Learning program, he said working adults can earn an associate degree in general studies in two years, by attending classes one night a week.
The Lions Club provided the noon meal of chili and soups.
Students of the Month from Ava High School and Ava Victory Academy were introduced by their administrators. This month’s honored students from Ava are Kevin Philpott and Nikki Dougherty; recognized from Ava Victory Academy was Ciera McCoy.
Kevin Philpott is the son of Bill and Terry Philpott. He is involved in National Honor Society, Student Council, Pep Club, Spanish Club, TREND, Future Business Leaders of America, Link Crew, football, track, basketball, and the Superintendent’s Advisory Committee.
Kevin is very active in service projects through his church and other community-based organizations.
After high school, Kevin plans on attending a 4-year college, but is undecided on a major at this time. He is involved in various projects in Boy Scouts and hopes to achieve Eagle Scout this year.
Kevin’s teachers say: “Kevin is a great student to have in class. He always has his work completed and has excellent attendance. Kevin also has a great attitude and works well with his classmates. He is always respectful of his teachers and peers.”
Nikki Dougherty is the daughter of Connie Dougherty and Kevin Dougherty. She is involved in FFA, Anchor Club, Family Career and Community Leaders of America, and Youth Philanthropy.
Nikki is very involved in these clubs, as well as assisting with Foxtrotters, game concession stands, and community trash pick-up, and taking care of her FFA SAE project of rabbits.
After high school, Nikki plans on going to Missouri State University and majoring in marine biology or zoology.
Nikki’s teachers say: “Nikki is a great student who excels in her work. She is always very polite, self-motivated, and self-disciplined.”
September’s Student of the Month for Ava Victory Academy is senior Ciera McCoy.
Ciera is a dedicated and motivated student, maintaining a 3.8 GPA, and consistently ranked in the top 10 percent of her class.
She is a member of Beta Club and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. As a member of the Missions Club, Ciera is currently planning on participating in her second mission trip to Nicaragua after graduation.
Ciera is an avid horsewoman and is active in the Foxtrotters. She also plays volleyball with the Lady Crusaders.
Ciera has wanted to be a pediatrician since 3rd grade and has actively pursued her goal throughout her school career.
She was involved in ACES for two years, a program for high school students interested in healthcare careers. She has job shadowed at Cox Hospital in a variety of areas related to pediatrics, worked on community service projects like MASH Camp, attended workshops and volunteered at the hospital.
Ciera has already been accepted at Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, Ariz., and has applied to UMKC and Washington University in St. Louis.
