Lilyanne McCool receives Chris Waller scholarship

POINT LOOKOUT, MO. — This year marked the 16^th year the Chris Waller Memorial Scholarship has been presented to College of the Ozarks graduates in memory of Chris Waller. This scholarship is given to College of the Ozarks graduates who possess outstanding character and want to further their education. The money for the scholarship comes from interest on the memorial endowment established in Waller’s memory.

This year, three deserving recipients were awarded the scholarship: Lillyanne McCool, Emma McIntire, and Tyas Rush.

Lilyanne McCool, a graduate of College of the Ozarks, is from Mountain View, Arkansas. While at C of O, she majored in nursing and worked in the Armstrong McDonald Clinic as her campus workstation. She plans to attend the University of Arkansas to earn her master’s degree in nursing science.

“Receiving this award is a high honor, as it is gifted to students whose academic journey and attributes resemble that of Chris Waller,” McCool said. “He was an exceptional student, caring husband and father, upstanding citizen, and a devout follower of Christ. I am deeply grateful for Mr. Al Waller’s support and generosity, and I will do everything in my power to capitalize upon the opportunity this scholarship offers. ”

Emma McIntire receives Chris Waller scholarship

Emma McIntire, graduate of College of the Ozarks, is from Adrian, Missouri. She majored in Allied Health Science and worked in the athletic training room for her campus workstation. She plans to continue her education at Drury University to study to become a physician assistant.

"Receiving this scholarship means more than just receiving financial support,” McIntire said. “It is a reminder that others believe in my future and trust in the work that I have put into my education at College of the Ozarks. It is my honor to do a small part in carrying on Chris Waller's legacy. I hope to one day have a fraction of the impact he made on everyone around him. I am incredibility grateful to Coach Waller and his entire family for their support as I continue my education."

Tyas Rush receives Chris Waller scholarship

Tyas Rush, graduate of College of the Ozarks, is from Batesville, Arkansas. He received his bachelor’s degree in human and molecular biology and worked in the baseball office as his campus workstation. He will continue his education at the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry.

“Being selected for a memorial scholarship in honor of Chris Waller is deeply humbling,” Rush said. “At a school filled with so many hardworking and deserving students, I am incredibly grateful to be considered worthy of an award that carries his legacy. It means a great deal to know that others see value in my efforts and future goals, and I am thankful for the opportunity to honor his memory through my continued work and service.”

More about the Chris Waller Memorial Scholarship

Al and Marty Waller established the Chris Waller Memorial Scholarship in memory of their son, Chris Waller. Chris graduated from Branson High School and attended College of the Ozarks from 1997-2001 as a mathematics major. Chris was a member of the C of O Basketball Team for four years, was named all-conference his senior year, and an NAIA Academic All-American his junior and senior years. He was also inducted into the College of the Ozarks Athletic Hall of Fame in 2011. After his graduation, Chris went on to study at the University of Arkansas, majoring in civil engineering.

Al Waller began his career at College of the Ozarks in 1977 as a men’s basketball coach and physical education instructor. He has served in multiple roles throughout his tenure. His 25-year stint as the College’s head coach found him accumulating 458 wins, twelve conference championships, and six national tournament appearances. He was also named conference Coach of the Year on twelve occasions. In addition, he has been inducted into the College of the Ozarks Sports Hall of Fame, NAIA Hall of Fame, and Missouri Sports Hall of Fame. Al Waller retired from C of O in 2015.

Marty Waller, who went to be with the Lord in February 2025, worked tirelessly in her efforts at Hard Work U. and was an ardent supporter of the College’s athletics. She coached the cheer team with passion for 27 years and developed them into one of the top small college cheer teams in the nation. She also played a significant role in the success of the NAIA Division II men’s basketball tournament by serving as a chair for the opening ceremonies, half time entertainment, and east pass gate for 16 years. In 2015, she was inducted into the College of the Ozarks Sports Hall of Fame. In addition to her activities at the College, Marty Waller was actively involved with the Branson Booster Club, the American Red Cross, the American Cancer Society, and the Branson Believers, where she received the Love Award.