In the middle row are Betts Hrin, Alice Clark, Lucy Syktich, Pauline Duplease and Nancy Duffalo.
In the back row are Jackie Syktich, president/chief executive officer, Lana Robinson, Francis Romeo, Thomas Corman, Bertha Cornman, Debra Rhed, Workshop Instructor and Mary Jones, Corporate Academic Dean. Missing from the photo are Grace Divins and Josie Harbison. (Provided photo)
DUBOIS – The DuBois Business College (DBC) recently presented certificates to local residents for completion of the latest computer workshop.
The computer workshops began in November of 2012. It consisted of beginners/basics and principles for usage of a computer. Upon the completion of the first workshop, students asked for “more” workshops to be offered to learn additional skills.
Many seniors have family or relatives, including military members that after completing the workshop became able to communicate with them daily through the use of computers. Debra Rhed, a DBC graduate, with a specialized degree in Computer Applications/Management is the workshop instructor. She is assisted by DBC student volunteers in the classroom, which gives more individualized attention to the workshop participants. The student volunteers are each presented with a DuBois Business College Community Service Recognition Certificate for their hours of service.
Rhed’s father, Lavelle Conrad, of Punxsutawney was her biggest inspiration to teach computer skills to those in need. Her father now in his 80’s, attempted to retire, but wanted something to keep him busy; therefore, he opened Conrad’s Saw Shop, which forced him to learn computer usage and learn how to order inventory for his shop on line.
Rhed recognized a need to develop and implement computer workshops in the area, and a huge opportunity to give back to the community. Jackie Syktich, president/chief executive officer and Mary Jones, Academic Dean at DBC offered immediate support and sponsorship for the workshops to be put in place.
To take advantage of this training, you need to register and have a desire to learn computer skills; the computers are provided by DBC.
To date senior citizens have made up the majority of workshop participants; however, any age is welcome. Students 13 to 88 years of age have registered and participated. The workshops fill up rapidly, so if you would like more information on upcoming workshops and seminars, that will include training on Windows 8, Microsoft Word, and Computer Basics/Beginners, among others, please call Debbie Rhed at
814-375-0142.