[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 39 (Thursday, March 22, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E437]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     A VISIONARY MISSOURI EDUCATOR

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. ROY BLUNT

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 22, 2001

  Mr. BLUNT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in memory and tribute to Dr. M. 
Graham Clark who called the School of the Ozarks his home for the past 
six decades. Dr. Clark passed away on March 15, at age 92 at his 
residence on the campus.
  Dr. Clark led a life dedicated to the glory of God, and committed to 
the principles of hard work and educational excellence as he worked to 
expand and lead a free faith-based education to literally thousands of 
students who have attend the school in the Missouri Ozarks.
  Dr. Clark arrived at the School of the Ozarks in 1946. Under his 
leadership the high school was transformed first to a junior college 
and later into a four year institution of higher learning that is 
nationally recognized for its emphasis on character development, 
academic excellence and student work. Those who attend the School of 
the Ozarks--now named the College of the Ozarks--are offered a unique 
opportunity. In exchange for a world class college degree, students 
work for their tuition. They work daily as the college's maintenance, 
janitorial, secretarial and grounds keeping staff, security guards and 
food service personnel. This concept, which has won the school an 
international reputation as ``Hard Work U'', opened the doors of higher 
education to many who would never have dreamed they could achieve a 
college degree.
  Dr. Clark was a tireless campaigner and promoter for the College of 
the Ozarks in persuading donors to support the school located at Point 
Lookout, Missouri. His determination and leadership transformed the 
School of the Ozarks into a national model that has drawn students from 
all over the world for a classic education steeped in faith, work and 
service. College of the Ozarks is a unique blend of old fashion 
respect, daily application of the ``Golden Rule'', and modern 
technology mixed together with a strong emphasis on the work ethic.
  The legacy of Dr. M. Graham Clark will touch the lives of many people 
for generations to come because of the institution he nurtured and 
guided. Through the School of the Ozarks, he shaped the lives and faith 
of countless scholars, business people, government officials and 
ministers across America who continue to mold and shape the lives of 
the people in their own communities.
  Dr. Clark was known for his strength of character, great wisdom and 
insight. His legacy of leadership is reflected in the lives of 
thousands and is shared by Dr. Jerry Davis as he and the College of the 
Ozarks continue in the business of changing lives.

                          ____________________