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Meet the President and First Lady of College of the Ozarks

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Dr. Brad S. Johnson & Laura Lacey Johnson

The Johnsons

Under President Johnson’s leadership, the College has continued to elevate its distinctive mission of providing a Christ-centered, debt-free education through its Work Education Program while preparing students for lives of service and leadership. He is committed to preserving the institution’s unique identity, strengthening its national reputation, and ensuring that future generations of students are equipped to make meaningful contributions to their communities, their professions, and their faith.

Dr. Brad S. Johnson

Dr. Johnson leads College of the Ozarks with a clear vision rooted in its founding purpose. Under his leadership, the College launched its 10-year strategic plan, Light the Way: Equipping Students to Shine the Hope of Christ, and has continued to strengthen communication, teamwork, and faculty and staff development across campus.

During this time, the College was named one of The Chronicle of Higher Education’s “Great Colleges to Work For” and ranked among the top 6% of colleges and universities nationwide by The Wall Street Journal. In 2025, Dr. Johnson was also recognized on the Springfield Business Journal’s Men of the Year list.

Raised on a farm in Lazbuddie, Texas, he learned early the values of faith, family, and hard work—principles that continue to guide his leadership at Hard Work U.

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I see the presidency of College of the Ozarks as an opportunity to champion the values that will preserve the best of our society and forge leaders that will carry these principles forward for the glory of God and the betterment of mankind,

Dr. Johnson
Laura Lacey Johnson

Laura Lacey Johnson serves as the College’s First Lady with warmth, purpose, and a heart for ministry. A former television reporter, radio personality, and marketing professional, she now focuses her work on speaking, mentoring, and encouraging women in Christian leadership and prayer.

Her most recent release, Steadfast: A Guided Prayer Journal, was created with the mission of College of the Ozarks in mind and produced by the College’s Print Shop in 2025. The journal, along with a line of prayer-inspired products available at The Keeter Center Gift Shop, reflects the College’s commitment to Christian formation. Proceeds from the journal support room and board scholarships through the Ozarks Women in Leadership (OWL) program.

Together, the Johnsons have made College of the Ozarks their home with their two children, Evan and Elle, and remain closely connected to the life of the campus community they serve.