at 516 N. Wall Street in Joplin, Missouri. Joplin was chosen as the new home for the college because it was easily reached by car, bus, train, or plane. Many churches were in the area, providing opportunities for student ministries, and Joplin also had more job opportunities for students. In 1946, Edwin B. Strong succeeded his father as president of Ozark Bible College. The college grew from 16 students in 1942 to 123 students in the fall of 1949. An addition to the building in 1948 provided a dining room, a small chapel, and two classrooms. At this time, most of the full-time faculty preached every weekend. Area ministers assisted as part-time instructors. Students were involved in service in the churches on weekends. Ozark’s curriculum has always stressed knowledge of the Bible gained through a direct study of the biblical text, with every degree carrying a major in Bible. Strong emphasis has been placed on apologetics (knowing why we believe in God, Christ, and the Bible) and hermeneutics (principles and methods for understanding the Bible). Skills for ministry were also taught. In 1952, Don Earl Boatman became the third president of Ozark Bible College, a post he held for 27 years. The college had a vision and desire to grow. A 1953 addition to the college building provided a large chapel, a library, and additional classrooms. This enabled the college to accommodate the 176 students who enrolled in the fall of 1954. In 1955, Ozark faculty, staff, and students served 75 churches. Soon the college reached the maximum capacity in the 516 N. Wall building. In 1959, 40 acres were purchased on North Main Street, a mile north of downtown Joplin and less than a mile from the Wall Street location. The Missions Building and Alumni Hall were completed in 1963, providing classrooms and a dormitory for women. This enabled the college to move to the new campus to welcome 309 students in the fall of 1963. The Administration Building was completed a few weeks after the fall semester started. Under the direction of Walter Goodman, 13 buildings were constructed on the new campus during its first two decades. Every year during the 1960s, enrollment increased, reaching its peak of 803 in the fall of 1974. New faculty and programs expanded the outreach of the college. The college was known for its emphasis on evangelism and missions. In 1979, new leaders assumed responsibilities at Ozark Bible College. Ken Idleman became president and Wallace Wartick was named academic dean. Dr. Lynn Gardner became academic dean in 1981. In the same year, Ozark began the process of accreditation and received it from the 4
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