Ozarka College Welcomes Tess Weatherford as Director of TRIO

Published on July 30, 2026

Ozarka College is pleased to announce the appointment of Tess Weatherford as Director of TRIO.

A Melbourne native, Weatherford returns to Ozarka College after five years away, bringing more than 13 years of experience in higher education and student services. In her role as Director of TRIO, she will oversee programs designed to support first-generation, low-income, and students with disabilities as they work toward achieving their educational goals.

"We're thrilled to welcome Tess Weatherford back to Ozarka College," said Dr. Josh Wilson, Ozarka president. "Her energy, enthusiasm, and genuine passion for helping students succeed make her an outstanding choice to lead our TRIO program."

Weatherford began her career in higher education at Ozarka College in 2014. She earned a Bachelor of Social Work from Arkansas State University and a Master of Science in Student Affairs Administration from Arkansas Tech University.

Prior to returning to Ozarka College, Weatherford worked at the University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville (UACCB), where she served as a Career Coach for Adult Education before transitioning to Student Services as an Academic Advisor for Nursing and Allied Health students. Throughout her career, she has developed expertise in veteran affairs, financial aid, adult education, student services, and academic advising.

"I was raised in Melbourne, Arkansas, and am excited to return to Ozarka College after five years," Weatherford said. "I began my career in higher education at Ozarka in 2014, and it is truly rewarding to come back and continue serving the students and communities that mean so much to me. I look forward to helping our TRIO students overcome barriers, reach their goals, and experience the opportunities that higher education can provide."

Weatherford resides in Violet Hill with her husband, Toby, and their son, Max. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, shopping, and cheering on Max as he plays baseball.

Ozarka College is proud to welcome Weatherford back to campus and looks forward to the leadership, compassion, and dedication she brings to the TRIO program as the College continues its mission of providing life-changing educational opportunities throughout North Central Arkansas.