College of the Ozarks announces the release of “Miracle in the Ozarks: The Story Continues”
College of the Ozarks proudly announces the release of the expanded edition of Miracle in the Ozarks: The Story Continues, The Rise of “Hard Work U.” to National Prominence, authored by Dr. Jerry C. Davis, President Emeritus of College of the Ozarks. The new edition, available today, traces the remarkable history of the College and its journey to becoming a nationally recognized institution.
Davis, who first published Miracle in the Ozarks in 2006 during the College’s centennial celebration, spent close to two years writing this updated edition. The expanded version covers the College’s history from 1906 to 2022, with new insights, student success stories, and engaging updates, including previously unseen photos and historical facts.
“This project has been a labor of love,” Davis said. “When we released the first edition, we had just celebrated 100 years of Hard Work U. In the nearly two decades since, the College has continued to achieve national prominence. I wanted this updated version to reflect those accomplishments and to honor the students, alumni, and veterans who have played such a significant role in shaping the College’s legacy.”
Readers will find numerous unexpected twists in the story of Hard Work U., one of which is the overwhelming success of the College's students. From humble beginnings to thriving alumni, the stories of personal achievement stand out. Another surprise is how the College has become almost self-sustaining, an institution that has thrived for nearly 120 years. Additionally, the campus has evolved into a tourist destination, drawing thousands from across the nation who come to witness the College's commitment to excellence, its scenic beauty, and its patriotic landmarks.
One of the most meaningful aspects of the College’s evolution, Davis noted, is its role as a haven for veterans. “Our campus has become a place where veterans can come to celebrate their life’s work, achievements, and sacrifices,” Davis said. “It’s humbling to see how the College has embraced this cause.”
Dr. Brad Johnson, College of the Ozarks president, lauded Davis for recording the institution’s illustrious history: “I am so thankful that Dr. Davis has taken the opportunity to author this second edition of ‘Miracle in the Ozarks.’ The telling of the College of the Ozarks story, of the rise of this institution to become one of the most influential colleges in the nation, is best told by one who had a front row seat, watching it unfold. Dr. Davis’ remarkable largesse will benefit the College decades into the future.”
The updated edition of Miracle in the Ozarks is available now for $19.95. Proceeds from the book will support The Helping Hand Fund, which provides assistance to College of the Ozarks students for needs ranging from medical expenses to clothing for job interviews.
The book is available online at store.cofo.edu or by calling 833-267-1985. It will also be sold at each performance of the patriotic play Breaking the Silence at The Keeter Center, running from October through November 2024. Visitors to the College’s iconic Keeter Center can also purchase the book in the gift store.
More about the author
Jerry C. Davis is President Emeritus of College of the Ozarks. His tenure in the college presidency (45 years) is among the longest in the United States. After serving the presidency of Alice Lloyd College (11 years), he served as president of College of the Ozarks (34 years), its longest serving president. After graduating from The Mount Berry School for Boys, Davis attended Truett-McConnell University, received a B.S. degree from Mars Hill University, an M.S. degree from the University of Tennessee, and a Ph.D. from Ohio State University. Alice Lloyd College conferred an honorary L.L.D. on Dr. Davis in recognition of his unusual service.
Davis is the recipient of the prestigious Eisenhower Fellowship, as well as the Missourian Award, one of the state’s highest honors. The author of 11 books, he has served on numerous boards, such as the Marine Military Academy and Alice Lloyd College, and received numerous service awards.
Davis has received three national recognitions. The Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) awarded Davis the E. Burr Gibson Lifetime Achievement Award for his significant and lasting impact in the field of institutional advancement. He also is the recipient of The Lee Greenwood Patriot Award and was a Presidential appointee of the 1776 Commission.