POINT LOOKOUT, MO. — College of the Ozarks has officially joined the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation’s Johnny Micheal Spann Ally Program, becoming one of the newest partner institutions committed to honoring and supporting America’s veterans and their families.

The Ally Program, named in honor of Johnny Micheal Spann, the first American service member killed in combat during the Global War on Terrorism, connects the Foundation with like-minded organizations to expand awareness, education, and advocacy surrounding the construction of the National Global War on Terrorism Memorial on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

College of the Ozarks’ partnership reinforces the College’s long-standing mission of patriotic education and service. “We’re honored to be an ally,” said James P. Schreffler, Vice President for Patriotic Programs at College of the Ozarks. “This partnership allows us to share in the national effort to honor veterans of the Global War on Terrorism while highlighting what we’re doing here on campus through Patriots Park and our own Global War on Terrorism Memorial. It’s a mutual relationship where we can further each other’s objectives, with the ultimate goal of recognizing and caring for our veterans and their families.”

Through this alliance, both organizations will collaborate to promote the Foundation’s mission and amplify awareness of the memorial project. College of the Ozarks will share educational content and events to support the Foundation’s efforts, while the Foundation will highlight the College on its website and social media platforms as part of its network of allies nationwide.

“The Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation is excited to grow our allyship and amplify one another’s important work,” said Jennifer R. Ballou, Chief of Staff at the Foundation. “College of the Ozarks’ deep commitment to honoring veterans and educating future generations aligns perfectly with the purpose of the Ally Program.”

The partnership reflects the College’s broader dedication to patriotic education through programs such as its Patriotic Travel Program, which gives students the opportunity to travel with and learn directly from veterans of America’s conflicts.

The Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation is the Congressionally designated nonprofit organization responsible for building the National GWOT Memorial on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The Foundation’s mission is to honor the service and sacrifice of all who have served in the Global War on Terrorism and their families.

For more information about the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation, visit www.gwotmemorialfoundation.org.