Ozarks Tech is innovative every day of the year, but this month the college is introducing a game-changing professional development event for full-time staff and faculty designed to take that spirit of excellence to a new level.

This first-of-its-kind conference, entitled “Eagle Summit: Learn. Grow. Soar.” is scheduled for Feb. 18 at the Ozarks Tech Springfield Campus. No classes will be held, and offices will be closed for this day-long event.

Designed to inspire, educate and foster a greater sense of community at the college, Eagle Summit will feature sessions led by talented Ozarks Tech staff and faculty alongside industry experts from across the state. The conference-style format is an opportunity to learn from each other and to empower every college employee with new skills and fresh insights that will enhance the ability to serve students.

“Our commitment to professional development initiatives like this is a testament to our dedication to excellence in education. By empowering our employees, we are creating a vibrant, collaborative and innovative environment that benefits both our students and our staff,” said Melissa Lloyd, Ozarks Tech chief human resources officer.

This event was developed under the leadership of the newly created Professional Development Institute within human resources at Ozarks Tech and will include internal and external subject matter experts. It is a unique opportunity for employees to share their knowledge, learn from one another and build stronger connections.

Eagle Summit topics range from emotional intelligence in the workplace and building a connected classroom climate to navigating generational differences at the office. Additional presentations will focus on the role of financial aid in postsecondary attainment and career readiness, as well as discussions on legislative and workforce development priorities for Missouri community colleges.

Notable guest speakers leading some of this year’s Eagle Summit presentations include:

  • Bennett Boggs – Commissioner, Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development
  • Kaitlyn Venta – Director of Affordability, Missouri College and Career Attainment Network
  • Cherelle Washington – Director of College Access & Career Readiness, Missouri College & Career Attainment Network
  • Brian Millner – President and CEO, Missouri Community College Association
  • Karen Buschmann – Executive Director, Missouri Chamber Foundation
  • Brian Fogle – Retired CEO, Community Foundation of the Ozarks

In addition to learning sessions, the event will also include a vendor fair, an address by Ozarks Tech Chancellor Hal Higdon and will wrap up with a special awards ceremony recognizing Ozarks Tech colleagues who make an extraordinary impact on the college.

“I look forward to seeing the positive impact Eagle Summit will have on our college community and how it will help advance the college’s strategic plan,” Lloyd said.

For more information about Eagle Summit, visit https://about.otc.edu/eagle-summit/