Ozarks Tech Foundation names next leader

The nonprofit that provides philanthropic support for Ozarks Technical Community College has a new leader.

Stephanie Matthews will become executive director of the Ozarks Technical Community College Foundation on April 1.

“Stephanie has a deep understanding of higher education and a remarkable ability to build strong relationships throughout our community,” Chancellor Hal Higdon said in a news release. “Her leadership will elevate the Ozarks Tech Foundation’s work and expand opportunities for donors to transform lives through education.”

Matthews has two decades of experience in the financial sector and higher education. Most recently, she was vice president and manager of business development at Simmons Bank. She entered the banking sector after serving as the director of corporate and foundation relations for the Missouri State University Foundation.

Her community service has included the Springfield Dream Center Advisory Board, United Way Ozarks Region and the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors Committee. She was also recognized by the Springfield Business Journal as one of the region’s Most Influential Women in 2023.

The Ozarks Tech Board of Trustees approved the hiring of Matthews at the March 11 meeting. Her starting salary will be $160,000, according to Amy Bacon Peebles, chief of staff for the college, who previously served in the role.

Bacon Peebles has transitioned into the role of executive vice chancellor for external relations for Ozarks Tech. Her current salary is $180,000, she said.