Kerry Henley Named MEMO Teacher of the Year
Springfield, MO – The Marketing Educators of Missouri (MEMO), a division of MOACTE and ACTE, proudly announces Kerry Henley, Marketing Instructor at Saline County Career Center (SCCC), as the recipient of the 2025 MEMO Teacher of the Year Award. Henley received this recognition in honor of her unwavering commitment to student success, her visionary leadership, and her tireless efforts to elevate marketing education across the state.
With over nine years of dedicated service at SCCC, Kerry Henley has distinguished herself as a champion for students and a builder of impactful, real-world learning experiences. Her classroom is known for being inclusive, engaging, and hands-on, empowering students through hands-on learning, professional development opportunities, and strong mentorship.
“Kerry was the kind of teacher who not only welcomed me every day with a handshake but also walked alongside me through every challenge, in and out of the classroom,” shared one former student and now educator. “She helped me as a student and then supported me as a new teacher myself. Her impact has been lifelong.”
Henley's influence extends far beyond the walls of her classroom. She has led a major expansion of the SCCC marketing program—extending opportunities to students in grades 9–12, embedding English credit in advanced coursework, and spearheading the development of a four-year curriculum model. Her leadership as District IV Lead Advisor for Missouri DECA, along with her mentorship of multiple state and national DECA officers, reflects her drive to help students excel at the highest levels.
“Kerry’s intentional, yet sincere, approach to mentorship sets her apart,” said a colleague from the SCCC Marketing Advisory Board. “Whether she's introducing students to real-world experiences like DECA’s Career Development Conferences or Sporting KC’s Marketing Day, or implementing new technologies in the classroom, Kerry is constantly seeking ways to grow both her students and her program.”
MEMO is proud to recognize Kerry Henley as the 2025 Teacher of the Year. Her passion, vision, and relentless support for student growth exemplify the very best in Missouri marketing education.
About MBEA
The Marketing Educators of Missouri (MEMO) is Missouri’s premier professional organization for marketing educators. MEMO supports professional development, advocacy, and excellence in marketing education statewide.
Contact: Leslie Crider, MEMO Liaison
leslie.crider@dese.mo.gov