Nearly 700 Ozarks Technical Community College graduates walked in Thursday evening’s commencement ceremony at JQH Arena on the Missouri State University campus.
OTC conferred 3,153 degrees and certificates to graduates this year, which includes students who have completed their course work from the summer 2014 semester through the summer 2015 semester.
Neal Spencer, retired CEO of BKD, was the featured commencement speaker.
“Make it your own journey,” said Spencer. “As you leave here this evening, I hope you never lose the willingness to keep learning, to keep chasing those dreams, and to find that passion.”
OTC also honored Representative Elijah Haahr as the 2015 Distinguished Alumnus of the Year. Rep. Haahr was first elected to the Missouri House of Representatives in November 2012 and represents District 134 of Springfield. His parents, Roger and Kathy Haahr, accepted the award on his behalf.
“Rep. Haahr’s work ethic and commitment to those he represents in Jefferson City make us proud to call him an OTC alumnus.” said Dr. Hal Higdon, chancellor of Ozarks Technical Community College.
Dr. Higdon concluded the ceremony by welcoming all graduates into the OTC Alumni Association.