J. D. Kennedy

Major: Conservation and Wildlife Management and Ecology and Field Biology

J.D. is grateful for the opportunity to work, rather than pay, for his education.

J.D. Kennedy, Student Body President at Hard Work U. is passionate about conservation wildlife management, serving others, and living a life devoted to Christ.

After an injury in high school, J.D.’s plans to play soccer in college were thwarted. Although this setback was challenging, it led J.D. to apply to College of the Ozarks – a place where he knew he could work, rather than pay, for his education. He sees God’s hand in his journey.

“God, in His perfect will, worked in my life to orient my paths to lead me here. It is not an easy place, but it is a place full of people who encourage and push you to grow in the deepest ways. I am truly grateful for the way that God guided me here and how God has worked during my time here.”

J.D., along with all full-time students at Hard Work U., participates in the Work Education Program, where he works 15 hours per week at his assigned workstation and two forty-hour workweeks during the academic school year. This work has proven valuable to J.D.