College of the Ozarks grads number over 350

College of the Ozarks in nearby Point Lookout celebrated their 2026 commencement ceremony on Saturday, when more than 350 students received their diplomas, witnessed by family and friends.

It was the 119th Commencement held at College of the Ozarks, a four-year college that focuses not only on academics, but also on vocation, patriotism, culture and Christian values.

Carrie Sheffield served as keynote speaker for the ceremony. Sheffield is an author, broadcaster and musician. A government official, Sheffield hails from Arlington, Virginia. Sheffield wrote the best-selling book “Motorhome Prophecies: A Journey of Healing and Forgiveness.” A former White House correspondent, she is often invited to share her thoughts and insights on Fox News, Newsmax, CNN, CBS News, BBC, CNBC, Good Morning America, Real Time with Bill Maher and more.

Sheffield's speech was entitled "The Joseph Journey: How God Transforms our Pain into Victory."

The College of the Ozarks Chorale and the Ozark Highlanders Pipe Band provided music for the graduation. Posting of the colors was offered by the C of O Bobcat Gold Program.

Honors, including the Ozarks Fellowship and the Servant Leadership Award were bestowed. A special U.S. Army Commissioning Ceremony was held as part of the Commencement.  

Degrees for Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Science in Nursing were conferred on College of the Ozarks graduates.