ST. LOUIS - Emerson Climate Technologies has awarded the first annual Thomas E. Bettcher Community Service Award to 25-year Emerson employee Pete Dexter. The company said the award, named for the former Emerson Climate Technologies president and CEO, recognizes an employee whose excellence in community service reflects the legacy of leadership and sustained community involvement demonstrated by Bettcher.

“I’m humbled to be offered the first Thomas E. Bettcher Community Service Award,” said Dexter. “I can’t take personal credit for the award. Our management has encouraged all of us to go out and do what needs to be done in the community. I have hundreds of fellow workers and community volunteers who have helped me at every step of the way.”

Emerson noted that Dexter has dedicated his life to service. Recently retired from the Air Force Reserve, he volunteers at area school science fairs, supports the GED tutoring program at St. Mark’s Church in Sidney, Ohio, and has lent his time and talents to organizations such as United Way, Agape Distribution, and Engineering Explorers for high school students. At Emerson, Dexter is manager of Asia Technical Support.

“Our employees give a tremendous amount of time and energy to supporting our community. This award not only recognizes outstanding individuals like Pete but also shows our organization’s commitment to sustained community involvement,” said Ed Purvis, business leader of Emerson Climate Technologies.

The award includes a grant to be donated to the charity of the recipient’s choice. The first grant was awarded to The Community Foundation of Shelby County which plans to distribute the funds among seven food pantries and meal programs in Shelby County.

“We are so honored that our Food Relief Program is Pete’s choice to receive a grant from Emerson Climate Technologies. Pete’s caring spirit is re-energizing our Food Relief Program, and we are now inviting others to make gifts that help residents in need,” said Marian Spicer, executive director of the Community Foundation of Shelby County.

For more information, visit www.emersonclimate.com.

Publication date: 09/27/2010