Historic Milestone: OTC Awards First Bachelor’s Degrees in Respiratory Therapy

Ozarks Technical Community College (OTC) will award bachelor’s degrees for the first time at its 2024 commencement. Three students, Daniel Bowles, Samantha Gonzalez, and Jade Humphreys, will receive Bachelor of Science degrees in Respiratory Therapy. This event marks the first time a Missouri community college has conferred bachelor’s degrees.

The bachelor’s program in respiratory therapy at OTC was approved by the Coordinating Board for Higher Education in 2021. It began in January 2023 and includes a new laboratory at OTC Waynesville, which enhances the learning experience.

The graduates each have diverse backgrounds. Samantha Gonzalez, who holds an associate degree in Early Childhood Education, changed her career path during the pandemic to become a respiratory therapist. Daniel Bowles, a former Army medic, joined the program after serving in Afghanistan. Jade Humphreys, a recent high school graduate, switched her focus from nursing to respiratory therapy after completing her prerequisites.

Dr. Hal Higdon, OTC’s chancellor, stated his pride in the students and the institution for starting this new program. He anticipates congratulating the graduates in person at the commencement.

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