2022 40 Under 40: Danielle Wise

In her role as director of development for the Ozarks Technical Community College Foundation, Danielle Wise is always in fundraising mode.

Wise, 33, began her job with OTC at the start of 2021, after eight years at The Arc of the Ozarks as its director of development and marketing. She’s raising funds for the college’s largest project in its history: the $40 million Robert W. Plaster Center for Advanced Manufacturing, set to open this fall.

A first-generation college graduate, Wise says higher education is a passion of hers, and she’s seeking to raise $10 million for the new building project.

First job? The pro shop and golf course guru for Honey Creek Golf Club. I learned so many skills in the five years I worked there. No day was ever the same.

Proudest moment? Becoming a mother to my two wild little boys.

Most treasured possession? A ring that was my mom’s. She passed away in 2013.

What historical figure do you identify with most? Lucille Ball. She was awkward and silly.

Favorite hobby or creative outlet? I love all things fitness. I am one of those early risers that work out at 5 a.m. It is my favorite form of therapy.

Favorite local order? Fajitas and a margarita at Cesar’s Old Mexico.