Some students go to college to earn a degree. Others, like Mary Higginbotham, go to make a difference.
A non-traditional student, mother of three and passionate advocate for education and service, Mary’s journey at Ozarks Technical Community College has been nothing short of remarkable. Her dedication to academics, leadership and community involvement has earned her multiple prestigious scholarships, including the 2025 New Century Transfer Pathway Scholarship and the Oberndorf Lifeline to Completion Scholarship. These honors reflect not only her hard work, but also the significant impact she has made on her peers, college and the surrounding community.
This year, Mary was named the 2025 New Century Transfer Pathway Scholar, an award given to the highest-scoring student in each state from nearly 2,100 applicants. Sponsored by the Coca-Cola Foundation, the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation and the American Association of Community Colleges, this scholarship recognizes students who excel in academics, leadership and service.
Adding to her list of achievements, Mary also received the Oberndorf Lifeline to Completion Scholarship, a lifeline for students facing financial hardships that threaten their education. For Mary, who lost her primary source of income in 2024, this support was a turning point.
“Receiving the Oberndorf Scholarship after losing my only source of income was truly life-changing,” she shared. “It provided immense relief from financial uncertainty at a time when I was unsure how I would continue my education. This scholarship gave me the hope and support I needed to persevere.”
Mary’s decision to attend Ozarks Tech was driven by both practicality and vision. As a returning student in her 30s, she sought an environment where she could thrive, one that offered both affordability and a strong sense of community.
Her time at Ozarks Tech quickly became transformative. She not only refined her career goals but also redefined success. For Mary, education became more than just earning a degree; it became a path to self-discovery, resilience and service.
Mary’s impact at Ozarks Tech extends beyond the classroom. As an active leader in Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) and a student employee in the Honors Office, she has worked tirelessly to promote opportunities for her fellow students. Her efforts to expand the reach of PTK and the Honors Program have opened doors for many who, like her, seek to challenge themselves and grow.
“She works extremely hard both as a leader and team player,” said Todd Yerby, Director of Honors Programs at Ozarks Tech. “Her work ethic, interpersonal communication, and problem-solving skills set her apart. She tackles challenges with determination and continually strives for improvement. Her success and involvement serve as an example to all our students.”
For students hoping to be inspired by Mary’s story, she emphasizes one key piece of advice: show up.
“Opportunities don’t just come to you; you create them by putting yourself out there,” she said. “Engage in class, communicate with your instructors, join clubs and volunteer. Scholarships don’t just reward good grades, they recognize leadership, service and dedication.”
With the financial support of these scholarships, Mary is now free to focus on what matters most – her education and her future. She plans to take full advantage of every opportunity, from internships to research projects, to build a strong foundation for her career.
“These scholarships are more than financial aid – they are an investment in my future,” she said. “With this support, I can immerse myself in learning, gain hands-on experience and prepare for a future where I can continue making an impact.”