On April 4, 2024, the FNBC Student Commons Area at Ozarka College was filled with enthusiasm and positive energy from more than 250 attendees of the Ozarka College Foundation Spring Gala. Ozarka's Foundation hosted this event themed, "Golden Opportunity" and the presenting sponsor was FNBC Bank.  The Spring Gala is the Foundation's signature fundraising event each year. The 2024 Gala was a big success totaling nearly $65,000 raised for Ozarka students and programs.

"This year's Gala success is a testament to the continued commitment our communities have for Ozarka, " said Dr. Josh Wilson, vice president of advancement. "We are amazed by the growing support and are grateful for our friends in the community that show up and dig deep year after year to support Ozarka students! For that we thank you. "

Dr. Richard Dawe, Ozarka College President, kicked off the event by welcoming guests and speaking about successes shared by the College this past year. After the welcome, Marty Sellars, FNBC Bank CEO, offered a blessing followed by attendees enjoying a gourmet dinner prepared by Ozarka College's Culinary Arts department. After a wonderful meal, Dr. Wilson introduced guest speaker and Ozarka student, Madison Woodall, who shared her story with patrons. Woodall highlighted the major role the College and Ozarka's Foundation scholarships have played in her journey as she pursues a career in education. Following Madison's address, Wilson thanked guests once more for their support and discussed how this year's Golden Opportunity theme sets the stage for next year's 50^th year celebration for Ozarka College. Wilson also announced the new Ozarka Opportunity scholarship, which pledges to local graduates a debt-free pathway to an Ozarka College degree or certificate. The new scholarship will serve as one way to commemorate Ozarka providing life-changing experiences through education, 50 years strong.

After the announcement, Ozarka Trustee Mike Watson prepared guests for the live auction that would close out the evening's festivities. He announced that Sissy's Log Cabin donated a beautiful diamond bracelet that each highest bidder would have a chance to win at the end of the auction. Auctioneer, Tony Watson, then auctioned off more than 40 items generously donated by local community members and businesses. Robert Stephens of Emerson won the diamond bracelet donating it back for another opportunity to raise more for scholarships.  After a successful auction, Trustee Watson shared a few closing remarks and thanked everyone in attendance of the 2024 Spring Gala.      

Special thanks to presenting sponsor: FNBC Bank, corporate gold sponsors: Baxter Health Family Clinic at Melbourne, White River Health, and Esther Dennis; corporate silver sponsors: G.H. Miller & Sons, Hometown Market, Mike Watson-State Farm, Farm Bureau, Bad Boy, Knowles True Value, First Community Bank, Bank of Cave City, and Arch Westmoreland Farm Supply, community sponsors: Air Ready, Spartan, Cadence Bank, Cooper's Hawk, Emerson, Evolve Bank & Trust, First Community Bank, Hatfield Ready Mix, John Gay Private Wealth Management, Bank of Salem, Fowlkes Family Trust, REMAX Edge - Brandy Corter, and REMAX Edge - Lee Ann Thomas; and a whole host of guests who bought tickets to support the event.