College of the Ozarks

College of the Ozarks has once again been recognized as one of the Great Colleges to Work For by The Chronicle of Higher Education, one of the most prestigious honors in higher education employment.

In the 2024 list, the College was highlighted in two significant categories: Job Satisfaction & Support and Mission & Pride — affirming the institution’s longstanding commitment to serving not only its students but also the employees who carry out its vision each day.

At a time when many institutions are facing challenges with recruitment and retention, College of the Ozarks stands as a national example of what it means to be mission-driven, people-focused, and purpose-filled. The College boasts a retention rate of 90 percent and a graduation rate of 64 percent. The retention rate represents those students who progress from their first to their second year at the College.

Sallie Hitchcock, alumna and staff member at College of the Ozarks, experienced the institution firsthand. She graduated in 1996 with a degree in criminal justice and an emphasis in corrections and psychology. She went to work in public service as a probation and parole officer for 22 years. Now, she works at the same College where it all began, as the Administrative Assistant to the Provost of the College and Coordinator of Student Support Services. In this role, Hitchcock assists students in achieving their academic goals. In June 2025, Hitchcock will take on a more specified position, when she assumes the new title of Director of Student Support and Success.

“Students come here to pursue their academic goals, but they also come with needs affecting their academics,” Hitchcock said. “They come with stories, life experiences, or even health struggles. The College supports our students in all of these areas, even if they don’t look like they directly affect their academics.”

That sense of investment in the College and its students is echoed by many, especially alumni who return to work on campus. Brandon Bliss, Director of Residence Life and Kelce Hall Director, is another such example.

“The administration reached out and encouraged me to consider joining the C of O staff,” Bliss said. “I think this was God-directed. I still remember having a conversation with my wife, April, when the College offered me the position. We thought we would stay three to five years. Now, 27 years later, we are still serving and raising our family on this incredible campus.”

As a Work College, “Hard Work U.” employs hundreds of students each year through its robust Work Education Program, and that economic impact reverberates far beyond campus borders. A strong employee culture directly benefits the surrounding region, as alumni, guests, and donors continue to support the institution’s purpose of developing citizens of Christlike character who are well-educated, hardworking, and patriotic.

“This recognition speaks volumes about our people and the community we’ve built,” said President Brad Johnson. “It is a privilege to work alongside faculty and staff who care deeply about the mission and about one another.”

College of the Ozarks congratulates the many outstanding employers in Southwest Missouri who make up a thriving economic environment in the region.

“We’re excited to be part of this vibrant business community — and proud to be a College that cares,” Johnson said.