2025 Men of the Year: Brad S. Johnson

Brad Johnson became the 17th president of College of the Ozarks in 2022 and has worked since to strengthen the college’s Christian foundation and ensure its continued success. He led the development of a 10-year strategic plan, Light the Way: Equipping Students to Shine the Hope of Christ, which reinforces the school’s core values and historic mission while expanding its national reputation.

“By God’s grace and through the dedication of our remarkable employees, College of the Ozarks continues to earn national recognition,” says Johnson. College of the Ozarks has been ranked among the top 6% of colleges and universities nationwide by The Wall Street Journal.

Just as important, a survey recently completed by faculty and staff prompted College of the Ozarks to be reinstated to The Chronicle of Higher Education’s list “Great Colleges to Work For.”

“Since stepping into the role of College of the Ozarks president, I have sensed a heightened call to foster a workplace culture rooted in respect, affirmation, and support for faculty and staff,” says Johnson. “To accomplish this, we have taken intentional steps to increase employee engagement and emphasize listening, resourcing, and investing in the college’s dedicated workforce.”

Johnson has influenced the success of others by strengthening communication and teamwork on campus. He established the President’s Leadership Cabinet to enhance collaboration among key leaders and launched the President’s Learning Network to address challenges and foster cross-campus cooperation. Additionally, the Presidential Fellow Program provides outstanding graduates with leadership development opportunities, mentorship and hands-on professional experience.

Beyond campus, Johnson is an active civic leader. He serves on the Ozark Mountain Legacy board, advocating for faith, family and patriotism. He has participated in events like Ignite Branson, where he mentored young professionals and business students. He also engages with local leaders through the Branson, Hollister and Forsyth chambers of commerce.

Johnson is proud of the student retention rates achieved under his leadership. While similar institutions report retention rates between 60%-65%, College of the Ozarks has historically maintained a range of 74%-82%. However, through strategic initiatives and employee dedication, retention rates rose to 88% in 2023 and 90% in 2024.

Commencement remains a highlight for Johnson, as it represents the culmination of students’ hard work and the college’s commitment to academic excellence and Christian values.

“Seeing students walk across the stage, ready to step into their God-given calling, is a joy I never take for granted,” says Johnson. “It’s also tangible evidence that the college is accomplishing its mission.”

Family: I have been married to Laura, the love of my life, for almost 27 years. Our kids, Evan and Elle, bring us much joy.

Words to live by: “The only ones among you who will be really happy are those who will have sought and found how to serve.” —Albert Schweitzer

Dream dinner party guest: Abraham Lincoln. I admire his persistence, humility, character and sense of humor.

Strange-but-true fact: I collect toy tractors and display them in my office. My collection began as a young boy who grew up on a farm in Lazbuddie, Texas.