2024 Evolution | Paid Advertising SPRINGFIELD BUSINESS JOURNAL 24 • 2024 EVOLUTION From the moment visitors drive onto campus, they see the changes at College of the Ozarks. With President Brad Johnson at the helm, the emphasis of C of O as a Christian college is evident. When driving through the gates, one is immediately welcomed by a 40-foot symbol, The Empty Cross™, by artist Max Griener, Jr. The changes do not stop there, as the addition of two new state-of-the-art facilities, the Watson Student Center and Lively Hall (a women’s residence hall), have elevated the scenery, facilities, and ethos of the student community. Lively Hall is a modern addition to the campus landscape with a focus on cutting-edge student dormitory design and functionality. Designed by N·FORM Architecture in collaboration with College of the Ozarks staff, Lively Hall spans approximately 73,600 square feet, features 112 dorm rooms, and accommodates up to 224 students. “Lively Hall embodies our overarching commitment to providing our students with not just a place to live, but a home where they can thrive academically, socially, and personally,” Johnson said. “With its innovative design and amenities, Lively Hall represents a new chapter in our ongoing efforts to enhance the student experience at College of the Ozarks.” The Ernie and Carolyn Watson Student Center opened to students last summer and is a beautiful blending of old and new. The new center — complete with a coffee shop, theatre, and numerous study areas — was a welcome addition to campus. While all of these changes make for a great foundation and forward movement for the institution, the measure of a college is first and foremost the success of its graduates. The local region benefits greatly from the institution’s final product. The economic impact is great, as 75 percent of nurses and 85 percent of teachers stay in the region after graduation, giving back through service to their community. Graduates Make a Lasting Impact As students enter College of the Ozarks, also known as Hard Work U., they immediately learn the expectations for character and work ethic, responsibility, and productivity. Who reaps the rewards? Everyone. Local and regional employers always have an eye on College of the Ozarks grads. They know they have excellent work ethic and are well-rounded individuals of the utmost character. Graduates benefit deeply from developing character and work ethic. As the cherry on top, they reap the benefits of graduating debt free. Olivia Jannsen graduated in spring 2024 with a degree in psychology and a minor in social media. She now works as the social media specialist at Shepherd of the Hills in Branson, Missouri. “Coming to C of O, I was prepared to work, but I learned quickly what it meant to work well; be humble and be willing. Be the person who is willing to scrub the floor or clean the trash and do it cheerfully.” When Janssen added the social media minor and began working in the Public Relations Office at the College, it became a new passion for her. “So many of the things I now love are the very things to which I had said, ‘I will never,’ or ‘I can’t ever.’ From deciding to attend C of O, to dating my fiancé, to working in social media, there are so many moments where I have had to give up my plan and let God take the reins.” College of the Ozarks evolves with new leadership, additions to campus Graduates make an impact locally and beyond College of the Ozarks Address: 100 Opportunity Ave, Point Lookout, MO 65726 Phone: 417-334-6411 Website: cofo.edu Lively Hall
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