With a new year comes transition!
Earlier this month, President Bob Otterson announced that he would transition to the position of Chief Advancement Officer. In this role, he will be responsible for leading efforts to grow the school’s endowment, connect with alumni, and guide future capital projects.
Mr. Otterson has served Oak Grove as President since June 2022, guiding the school through a time of progress and innovation, including a capital campaign that culminated in the completion of nearly 50,000 square feet of new teaching space.
“Buildings make a campus; people make a school,” said Otterson. “No one serves as an effective president without the contributions of others. That’s the beauty of Oak Grove: The resilience of the past 119 years should be a reminder that the school is bigger than any one person. Thank you for our work together during my presidency.”
Sher Thomsen, immediate past chair of the Oak Grove Board of Regents, will serve as Interim President beginning January 19th. Thomsen has spent the last 20+ years in leadership roles in nonprofits across the country, including serving as president of the United Way of Cass Clay from 2011 – 2016.
“As a parent, I’ve witnessed first-hand the positive impact our teachers and staff have had on our sons and their fellow students. I am honored to be a part of this strategic transition as we look for our next President,” says Thomsen.
In the meantime, the Board of Regents will launch a search for the next president immediately. We thank Mr. Otterson and Mrs. Thomsen for their service to Oak Grove, and welcome into their new roles.


