Stephanie Matthews brings two decades of experience in higher education and banking to expand scholarships, programs and capital investments that support student success.
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — Ozarks Technical Community College has named Stephanie Matthews as the new Executive Director of the Ozarks Tech Foundation. She will lead fundraising and philanthropic efforts in support of the college’s students, programs and strategic priorities.
“Stephanie has a deep understanding of higher education and a remarkable ability to build strong relationships throughout our community,” said Chancellor Hal Higdon. “Her leadership will elevate the Ozarks Tech Foundation’s work and expand opportunities for donors to transform lives through education.”
Matthews brings more than two decades of experience across higher education and the financial sector. She most recently served as Vice President, Manager of Business Development at Simmons Bank, where she led strategic business development initiatives throughout southwest Missouri to advance regional economic growth.
Before entering the banking sector, Matthews served as Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations at the Missouri State University Foundation, where she cultivated partnerships and philanthropic investments to support university priorities.
As Executive Director of the Ozarks Tech Foundation, Matthews will collaborate with the Foundation Board of Directors, alumni, donors and community partners to expand support for scholarships, capital projects, and innovative programs that create opportunities for students.
“Ozarks Tech is a powerful engine of workforce development and economic growth in southwest Missouri,” Matthews said. “The Ozarks Tech Foundation plays a vital role in advancing excellence across the college and throughout our region. I’m excited to work with donors and partners who want to invest in that mission.”
Matthews is an active community leader, having served on numerous nonprofit and civic boards, including the Springfield Dream Center Advisory Board, United Way of the Ozarks, and the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors Committee. She was also recognized by the Springfield Business Journal as one of the region’s Most Influential Women.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Southwest Baptist University and a master’s degree in administrative studies (applied communication emphasis) from Missouri State University.
The Ozarks Tech Foundation generates philanthropic support for Ozarks Technical Community College, investing in scholarships, programs and facilities that empower students and strengthen the economic and civic vitality of the region.