Attendees described a warm celebration where fun meets networking.

Five companies and two individuals are honored.

David Schmitz spent 14 years in Springfield Public Schools leadership roles.

The company ranks No. 12 on the list.

Board Chair Greg Henslee makes the most out of recent transactions.

HireMO is available at no cost, officials say.

Mackenzy Brockwell is tapped to succeed Lisa McIntire.

Prospective candidates can pick up packets to run starting Nov. 16.

Newsmakers are compiled in the areas of education, engineering, government, healthcare, law, real estate and trucking.

College officials say the training equipment is used to educate students, community partners.

Second-generation owner Roy Edge says he plans to retire.

Brenda Hopkins retires after 36 years in business.

Sheila Wynn, executive director of high schools, is also retiring.

Longtime employee Tim Francka will begin his new role Dec. 1, officials say.

David J. Tudor has 45 years of experience in the energy industry.

Newsmakers are compiled in the areas of banking & finance, education, government, nonprofit, real estate, restaurant, sports and technology.

In rural Missouri, a new three-year partnership aims to help school districts expand options and strengthen classroom-to-career pathways. 

Dan Haug will serve as the organization's director of state government relations in Missouri.

The jobless rate sheds half a percentage point in September.