WEST PLAINS, Mo. – Tresa Ryan, director of health information technology (HIT) programs at Missouri State University-West Plains, will discuss those programs at the Friends of the Garnett Library monthly luncheon meeting Friday, Jan. 8, on the Missouri State-West Plains campus.

Ryan will discuss the types of careers available to students who complete the Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology degree, as well as the Certificate in Health Information Technology-Medical Coding. She also will explain why these programs and careers are important to our region and the expected growth in popularity of these programs.

The HIT programs are funded through the university’s grant from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training (TAACCCT) Program.

The luncheon and meeting will take place from noon to 1 p.m. in rooms 104 and 105 on the lower level of the Lybyer Technology Center. Parking is available in the lot off Cass Avenue on the north side of the building.

Cost of the meal is $10, payable at the door. Those wishing to eat are asked to make a reservation by calling 417-255-7940 or emailing FriendsofGarnettLibrary@MissouriState.edu by Tuesday, Jan. 5.

For more information about Friends of the Garnett Library, visit the organization’s website or call 417-255-7940.