FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Springfield, MO — The Ozarks Literacy Council (OLC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Lori Beeson as its new Executive Director, bringing with her a strong background in mission-driven leadership and community engagement, most recently through her work with the Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland, where she held key roles focused on empowering youth, supporting volunteers, and strengthening regional programming.
Beeson’s extensive experience in nonprofit leadership, strategic planning, and communications makes her a natural fit to lead OLC into its next chapter. During her tenure with the Girl Scouts, she helped advance initiatives that supported girls of all backgrounds, expanded community outreach, and strengthened volunteer networks. This experience will directly benefit OLC’s mission to improve reading literacy throughout the Ozarks.
“I’m thrilled to welcome Lori Beeson as our new Executive Director at Ozarks Literacy Council,” said Sunni Nutt, Board President of OLC. “Her nonprofit experience and proven leadership skills make her an excellent fit for this role, and I’m confident she’ll bring the fresh perspective and energy we need after seven years of steady leadership. As Board President, I look forward to working alongside Lori to expand our mission’s reach and strengthen literacy throughout the Ozarks.“
As Executive Director, Beeson will oversee OLC’s daily operations, strategic planning, fundraising efforts, community partnerships, and free reading literacy programs for children and adults. She succeeds Amy Jardell, who was instrumental in creating our Reading Resource and Preschool Classroom Reading programs.
Beeson expressed enthusiasm for the role, saying, “I’m honored to join OLC as Executive Director and to help advance its vital mission of unlocking the power of literacy for every willing learner. I look forward to working alongside the dedicated staff, volunteers, and community partners to build on the strong foundation already in place to continue strengthening our community.”
Founded in 1968, the Ozarks Literacy Council provides one-on-one reading tutoring, early childhood literacy programs, outreach initiatives, and community education to promote reading literacy in Springfield, MO and the surrounding areas.
Media Contact:
Cassie Witt
Communications Coordinator
Ozarks Literacy Council
cwitt@ozarksliteracy.org