Ozarks Technical Community College has announced that Dr. Aaron Light has been selected as the institution’s next Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs.
Dr. Light, who has served as the college’s Dean of Health Sciences since 2021, was chosen for the role following a national search. His appointment will be effective July 1, pending approval by the OTC Board of Trustees.
“Throughout his time as Dean of Health Sciences, Dr. Light has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of our academic programs,” said Ozarks Tech Chancellor Hal Higdon. “His visionary leadership propelled transformative growth in student enrollment, expanded our programmatic offerings, and forged meaningful partnerships with leaders in healthcare and local industry. A tireless advocate for both faculty and staff, Dr. Light leads with empathy, integrity, and a collaborative spirit—always listening first to understand, and acting in the best interest of our students and community.”
A 2001 graduate of OTC’s Respiratory Care Program, Dr. Light holds credentials as a Registered Respiratory Therapist and Adult Critical Care Specialist. Prior to beginning his tenure with Ozarks Tech in 2003, he served as a respiratory therapist at Mercy Hospital in the adult intensive care units. During his time at Mercy, he also worked in the neonatal intensive care unit, the pediatric intensive care unit, and served on various specialty teams as well as a patient assessor.
Dr. Light received his bachelor’s degrees in management and respiratory therapy from Missouri State University, and his master’s in respiratory care leadership from Northeastern University. He earned his Doctor of Health Sciences degree from Nova Southeastern University in 2012.
Dr. Light’s contributions to Ozarks Tech are both profound and far-reaching. He was instrumental in the development of Missouri’s first bachelor’s degree offered by a community college. Since joining the college, he served as a faculty member, program director, and academic leader. Prior to his role as dean, he served as a faculty member in the Respiratory Therapy Program, Director of Clinical Education for the program for 12 years and then Program Director for six years.
“I’m honored to step into the role of provost at the college that has been my home for over two decades. From my days as a student to serving as faculty, program director, and dean, I’ve witnessed firsthand the incredible journey of growth – from classrooms in malls to six thriving campuses and centers. It’s a privilege to help shape the next chapter of this remarkable institution.”
