The Ozarka College Board of Trustees announced today the selection of Dr. Josh Wilson, vice president of advancement at Ozarka as the next President of Ozarka College.

Wilson- a native of Izard County with broad experience in executive leadership, higher education, student services, planning, and fund-raising -will succeed Dr. Richard Dawe, after 15 years as Ozarka president.

"I have known Josh for a long time and think he is the right person at the right time for Ozarka College, " said Fred Holzhauer, Board chairman. "His combined history of work experience, developing higher education partnerships, and fundraising will serve the Ozarka region well. We are impressed with his accomplishments, his track record in higher education, and his active community involvement. His strong leadership, and fund-raising skills will benefit Ozarka College and its constituencies."

"I want to thank Dr. Richard Dawe for his years of service to Ozarka as president and his leadership to advance the College in so many ways over the past 15 years. It's never easy to hire a replacement, but I am confident that Josh will continue to move Ozarka forward, " Holzhauer added.

A 9-member President Search Advisory Committee - with members representing faculty, staff, and the community - reviewed 55 applications for the position. Four finalists were interviewed by the Board of Trustees on campus.

"I am deeply honored to step into the role of President of Ozarka College, " Wilson said. "I want to express my gratitude to the Board of Trustees for their trust and support and I hope to build on the great things the Ozarka team has accomplished as we start this new chapter together. "

"Building on a rich history of exceptional teaching, service, and student success, I am excited to carry on our important legacy of providing life-changing experiences through education while working with the amazing team at Ozarka, " Wilson added.

Prior to the appointment, Wilson served as vice president of advancement since 2019 and as vice president of student services from 2016-2019. He has also served as associate vice president of planning and institutional research and grant administrator since he began his career at Ozarka in 2012.

Wilson was awarded a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration - Finance and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Arkansas. Wilson received a Doctor of Education in Higher Education from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.