OTC Dedicates Lewis Family Early Childhood Education Center

The late David Lewis gifted $1 million for student scholarships through his will. The scholarships through the OTC Foundation are designed to assist students from Lewis' home communities of Taney and StoneCounty.

Lewis is originally from Rockaway Beach and earned his wealth by working at the Sears in Springfield for nearly 40 years. Friends say he lived a frugal lifestyle, invested wisely, and did not have any dependents.

Lewis wanted to make sure his legacy could help others.

"This gift is going to make a difference after every one of us in this room is gone," says Dr. Hal Higdon, chancellor of the College. "I think that's important to think about because that legacy is there. The Lewis legacy will live on in all the students who receive scholarships it will also live on in this building."

At the time it was received, Mr. Lewis' gift was the largest in Ozark Technical Community College's history.

The OTC Foundation, now in its 17th year of operation, works to meet the ever-increasing needs of Ozarks Technical Community College through the funding of scholarships, new programs, and capital improvement projects.