Dr. Newbury, affectionately known as the "Popcorn President," has used his popcorn machine as a prop at speaking engagements across Texas and beyond, earning the moniker throughout his years as a college president and chancellor. Over the past 50 years, including 29 years as chancellor, Dr. Newbury has given away more than 26 tons of popcorn at over 6,000 events in 45 states. His popcorn, dubbed “Chancellor Corn” after becoming chancellor, symbolizes warmth, community, and joy.

C of O President Brad Johnson hosts celebration for Dr. Don Newbury, President Emeritus of Howard Payne University

College of the Ozarks proudly dedicated the President’s Popcorn Machine, a heartfelt gift from Dr. Don Newbury, President Emeritus of Howard Payne University, on Tuesday, July 9. The dedication ceremony, held at the president’s home on campus, honored Newbury’s unique tradition of fostering community and connection through his beloved popcorn machine.

Dr. Newbury, affectionately known as the "Popcorn President," has used his popcorn machine as a prop at speaking engagements across Texas and beyond, earning the moniker throughout his years as a college president and chancellor. Over the past 50 years, including 29 years as chancellor, Dr. Newbury has given away more than 26 tons of popcorn at over 6,000 events in 45 states. His popcorn, dubbed “Chancellor Corn” after becoming chancellor, symbolizes warmth, community, and joy.

The dedication event began with a warm welcome from College of the Ozarks President, Dr. Brad Johnson, and First Lady, Laura Lacey Johnson, who shared personal anecdotes about Dr. Newbury’s mentorship and friendship. Dr. Johnson recounted his first job interview with Dr. Newbury at Howard Payne University, expressing deep gratitude for the opportunity and guidance he received.

“Dr. Newbury, you and Brenda set the tone for us early on in our careers as a President and First Lady who loved students and helped them feel seen, heard, and known,” Dr. Johnson said.

Laura Lacey Johnson, an alumna of Howard Payne University, spoke fondly of her experiences under Dr. Newbury’s leadership, highlighting the impact of his compassionate and student-centered approach. She emphasized how the popcorn machine became a symbol of Dr. Newbury’s dedication to building relationships and fostering a sense of community.

As the highlight of the ceremony, Dr. Newbury officially passed the popcorn scoop to Dr. Johnson, symbolizing the continuation of the popcorn tradition at College of the Ozarks. Dr. Newbury expressed his pleasure in knowing that the machine would find a new home where it could continue to bring people together in a community committed to faith and education.

The event also welcomed Dr. Newbury’s daughters, Jana and Jeanie, who joined in celebrating their father’s legacy and the longstanding friendship between the Newbury and Johnson families. (L to R: Laura Lacey Johnson, Dr. Brad Johnson, Dr. Don Newbury, Mrs. Brenda Newbury, Mrs. Jeanie Newbury McDaniel, Mrs. Jana Newbury Penney)

“I am pleased that the popcorn machine will have a new home where the Lord is exalted, and where College of the Ozarks students, alumni, and friends will enjoy popcorn as much as peanut butter and jelly sandwiches,” Dr. Newbury said.

In a touching moment, Dr. Johnson presented Dr. Newbury with the iconic Hard Work U. sweatshirt, a symbol of College of the Ozarks' dedication to character development, work ethic, and faith.

The event also welcomed Dr. Newbury’s daughters, Jana and Jeanie, who joined in celebrating their father’s legacy and the longstanding friendship between the Newbury and Johnson families.

The dedication ceremony, held at the president’s home on campus, honored Newbury’s unique tradition of fostering community and connection through Dr. Newbury’s beloved popcorn machine.

Dr. Johnson concluded the ceremony by emphasizing the significance of the popcorn machine in building relationships and fostering community.

“Today, we add another community-building tradition to the campus environment that will continue to build relationships and establish another venue with which to tell the amazing story that is College of the Ozarks,” he said.

With the ceremonial passing of the scoop, College of the Ozarks embraces a new tradition of sharing not only popcorn but also the spirit of camaraderie and connection that Dr. Newbury has embodied throughout his career.