College of the Ozarks featured Jenna Bush Hager, daughter of the 43rd President of the United States George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush, as this year’s speaker for the Leonard B. and Edith Gittinger Convocation on Thursday, Oct. 10.

College of the Ozarks featured Jenna Bush Hager, daughter of the 43^rd President of the United States George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush, as this year’s speaker for the Leonard B. and Edith Gittinger Convocation on Thursday, Oct. 10.

Through The Keeter Center for Character Education, the annual Fall Convocation provides an opportunity for the College to host nationally recognized leaders to share their life stories with students, emphasizing the importance of good character.

Moderator Erin Hayes-Dennis and Jenna Bush Hager discuss experiences in The White House, the importance of humility and serving, and how students can make an impact in our Nation and world.

The convocation was held in The Howell W. Keeter Gymnasium and moderated by Professor of the Practice of Journalism Erin Hayes-Dennis, who is a nationally acclaimed former ABC news correspondent. The evening’s theme was “Reflections on Life in The White House.” The convocation began with a welcome from Dr. Sue Head, vice president for cultural activities and institutional advancement, followed by the Presentation of Colors by the College of the Ozarks Bobcat GOLD students.

Award-winning international singer and actress, Mary Millben, sings the National Anthem to open the ceremony.

Coined as America’s “National Anthem Singer,” Mary Millben sang The Star-Spangled Banner followed by a performance of God Bless America later during the Convocation. Her 15-year career includes performances of the National Anthem and patriotic music for four consecutive U.S. presidents, international royalty, and foreign dignitaries. Millben’s career began as a White House presidential appointee to President George W. Bush. She is formally recognized as U.S. State Department cultural envoy and ambassador worldwide for effective leadership in cultural diplomacy, interfaith dialogue, and advocacy for global inclusion. Millben was gifted a watercolor painting made by Kiley Hutcheson, director of retail operations. The painting featured Wildewood Christian Church where Millben grew up singing and discovered her passion.

President Johnson, along with Jenna Bush Hager, present The Legacy Award to General Terrence R. Dake, a distinguished alumnus of The School of the Ozarks.

Reflections on Life in The White House

College of the Ozarks President Brad Johnson introduced Hager. She is co-host of NBC’s “TODAY with Hoda & Jenna,” editor-at-large for Southern Living magazine, and author of multiple New York Times best-selling books.

“Jenna’s family has a long history of visits to College of the Ozarks,” Johnson said. “Her grandfather, grandmother, father, and mother have all visited here for special convocations, and we are honored to continue the family tradition tonight with the third generation.”

Hayes-Dennis and Hager discussed experiences in The White House, the importance of humility and serving, and how students can make an impact in our Nation and world.

“Power is used to serve; power is used to help others,” Hager said, paraphrasing her grandfather’s inaugural prayer that encourages her to serve those who are less fortunate. “What is driving our country apart is that you cannot sit across from people that have different opinions from you and have a conversation with them. You students here at College of the Ozarks need to be the generation to change this.”

Hayes-Dennis asked questions about the value Hager found in traveling the world with her parents and the way it impacted her worldview and humanitarian work.

When reflecting on her father, Hager said, “His faith and his philosophy, and mine, is that to whom much is given, much is expected. And that would be my biggest advice to you all.”

Hager closed her discussion by encouraging students to dream big and always take the opportunity to do something new.

“I have really loved being here and learning about all that you do,” Hager said. “It is such an extraordinary place, and you are all so lucky that it is in your backyard.”

The Legacy Award

Johnson, along with Jenna Bush Hager, presented The Legacy Award to General Terrence R. Dake, a distinguished alumnus of The School of the Ozarks. During Dake’s 34-year career in the Marine Corps, he served as a Marine aviator, the pilot of Marine One, (the helicopter that transports the President of the United States), and Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps. Through the College’s Patriotic Education Travel Program, Dake frequently accompanies students and Veterans on patriotic travel trips, instilling patriotism and Christian values in the next generation.  

“The College now presents The Legacy Award to a man incredibly deserving of this recognition, a distinguished alumnus,” Johnson said. “General Dake, we remain very proud of your accomplishments, your character, and your leadership, and we are thankful and pleased to present this award to you tonight.”

Dake was presented with the wood-engraved Legacy Award, designed by Kiley Hutcheson, director of retail operations, and engraved by Chad Dardenne, Edwards Mill supervisor. The award was engraved with The School of the Ozarks product insignia, which was embossed on student-made furniture when Dake worked in the furniture factory at The School.

Dake served on the College’s Board of Trustees for 24 years, with 12 of those years as chairman. Currently, he serves as Trustee Emeritus. He and his wife, Sue, raised two children, Jana and Joshua. His children now have formed their own families, giving Dake the joy of having five grandchildren to carry on his legacy.

Clancy Callahan, senior journalism major, presents Hager with a C of O sweatshirt.

Students Engage in Annual Event

The College of the Ozarks Concert Band performed the prelude under the direction of Dr. Kevin Powers, assistant professor of music and director of bands. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Si Martin, School of the Ozarks senior, and followed by an invocation from Adia Lofgren, senior child studies major.

S of O students performed a song written by Jenni Carey, lead teacher at the S. Truett Cathy Lower School at School of the Ozarks, inspired by life lessons that Hager’s grandparents, 41^st President of the United States George H. W. Bush and First Lady Barbara Bush, instilled in her.

At the end of the convocation, students presented gifts to Hager. Jada Williams, senior family studies major, presented Hager with a stained-glass piece. Amelia Burton, senior biblical studies major, presented a handmade basket to Hager, and Clancy Callahan, senior journalism major, presented Hager with a C of O sweatshirt. Hager was gifted a stained-glass piece created by Amy Leaming, stained-glass work educator, and Jada Williams, stained-glass student worker. The piece was titled “At Home in Maine.”

S of O students perform a song written by Jenni Carey, lead teacher at the S. Truett Cathy Lower School at School of the Ozarks, inspired by life lessons from Jenna Bush Hager’s grandparents, 41st President of the United States George H. W. Bush and First Lady Barbara Bush.

Reflections on Life in The White House –Theme extends to alumni panel  

Earlier in the day, the College hosted an alumni panel for special guests and students. The panel highlighted graduates who served in The White House including some who served in leadership roles. The panel included Dake, former Marine Helicopter Squadron One pilot; Robertson “Robbi” Dickens, former deputy assistant to the president in the Office of Political Affairs intern; Lieutenant Colonel Zachery Leonard, former White House Communications Agency staff; Abigail Wiley, former White House Press Office intern; Angela Williamson, former Agency Liaison Department in Presidential Correspondence intern; and Christian Zaal, former Office of Vice President staff.

Williamson, who serves as alumni relations director at the College, moderated the panel.

“Listening to the alumni tell their stories from The White House was inspiring,” said Gabrielle Adair, sophomore public relations major. “Hearing the alumni attribute their success to College of the Ozarks showed me how blessed I am to be a student at this incredible institution.”