(WARRENSBURG, Mo.) – A former newspaper professional is the new director of volunteer services at the Missouri Veterans Home.

Latisha Koetting, a 17-year employee of the Sedalia Democrat, will begin her new position Aug. 1, according to a news release. Koetting replaces former director Jan Smith, who held the position for more than seven years before retiring in June.

“I am so excited to the join the team,” Koetting said in a news release. “I credit the veterans and families I have worked with over the past 17 years for helping me discover my true passion…it’s working with and for veterans. Their guidance, support and love gave me the courage to take this leap. I can’t wait to go on this journey with the 200 veterans at the home, the wonderful staff and the loving volunteers.”

During her time with the Sedalia Democrat, Koetting introduced the popular “Veterans Page,” which debuted in March 2001. To date, she has documented the stories of more than 300 local veterans, and her writing has garnered numerous regional accolades, as well as national recognition. She has also collaborated with a variety of veterans organizations on special events, remembrances and community initiatives, according to the news release.

“I was fortunate to work with Latisha on a number of projects at the home during my tenure as volunteer services director, and I’ve always been impressed by her professionalism and passion for serving our Veterans,” Smith said. “She will make an exceptional addition to the MVH-Warrensburg team. I have complete confidence that our volunteers and veterans are in wonderful hands.”