Bill & Ann Turner
Bill and Ann Turner, along with the Turner Family Foundation, have been long-standing champions of Ozarks Tech, supporting the college since its earliest days. Their commitment to education and workforce development has made a lasting impact on students, faculty, and the broader community.
Since 1999, the Turner Family Foundation and the Turner family have made significant contributions to Ozarks Tech, supporting student scholarships as well as recognizing outstanding faculty and staff. Their generosity also includes investment in campus development, most notably funding the expansion of the Information Commons West building on the Springfield campus, which includes the Turner Family Foundation Student Lounge.
Bill Turner, president of Great Southern Bank, and Ann Turner have both played active roles in supporting the college and the Ozarks Tech Foundation. Ann Turner was a founding member of the Foundation Board of Directors, serving from 1996 to 2006, including a term as president. Their daughter, Julie Turner Brown, also continued the family’s involvement through her service on the board. From the beginning, Bill recognized the value of Ozarks Tech, noting its ability to prepare students to enter the workforce immediately and meet the needs of the community.
Impact
The Turner Family Foundation Scholarship provides meaningful financial support to Ozarks Tech students, helping them focus on their education and move closer to achieving their goals. This investment reflects the Turner family’s belief in the power of education to create opportunity and strengthen the workforce.
In addition to scholarship support, the Turner family’s contributions to facilities and programs have enhanced the student experience and expanded the college’s ability to serve the community. Their support aligns with Ozarks Tech’s mission to provide flexible, workforce-focused education that meets the evolving needs of students and employers.
Through their continued generosity and leadership, Bill and Ann Turner and the Turner Family Foundation have helped create lasting opportunities for students and have played a vital role in the growth and success of Ozarks Tech.