Distinguished Alumni

Celebrate Excellence. Honor Achievement. Inspire Students.

You’re invited to submit a nomination for the Ozarks Tech Distinguished Alumni Award! The prestigious honor recognizes exceptional alumni whose professional accomplishments and community impact reflect the college’s mission and values.

The honoree will be recognized at the May 2026 commencement ceremony, with a short video highlighting their achievements, followed by brief remarks to encourage and inspire graduates.

We’re seeking Ozarks Tech alumni who have:

• Attained distinction in their profession
• Contributed meaningfully to their community
• Demonstrated integrity, leadership, and innovation
• Supported student success and workforce excellence

Nominees must be Ozarks Tech alumni and not current employees. Prior year nominations will remain under consideration, and multiple submissions will be accepted.

Past Winners

Explore the accomplishments of previous Distinguished Alumni Award recipients who continue to embody Ozarks Tech’s mission of transforming lives and strengthening communities.

Ben McBride

2024 Distinguished Alumni Recipient

Craig Dort

2023 Distinguished Alumni Recipient

Brett Magers

2022 Distinguished Alumni Recipient

Matthew Thomas

2021 Distinguished Alumni Recipient

Marge Cheesman

2020 Distinguished Alumni Recipient

Chief Bryan Newberry

2018 Distinguished Alumni Recipient

Andrew Hedgpeth

2017 Distinguished Alumni Recipient

Chef Jennifer Smith

2016 Distinguished Alumni Recipient

State Representative Elijah Haahr

2015 Distinguished Alumni Recipient

Special Agent Sgt. Joseph M Peters

2014 Distinguished Alumni Recipient

State Representative Diane Franklin

2013 Distinguished Alumni Recipient

Rick Hughlett

2012 Distinguished Alumni Recipient

Ryan Nicholls

2011 Distinguished Alumni Recipient

Paul Sundy

2010 Distinguished Alumni Recipient

Distinguished Alumni Nomination Form

Nominations for the 2026 Commencement Ceremony are currently being accepted