Written by Get ready to celebrate two of our most dedicated educators, Mike McCreary and Ed Henning, as Marion City Schools dedicates two major facilities in their names next Friday, October 24, 2025.
This isn’t just about buildings; it’s about honoring the decades of powerful, personal service these legends gave our students and community. We all have a fond memory of one or both of these educators! Each of us on the Marion Watch team, many officials, and countless other citizens could certainly tell you how these educators positively impacted their lives!
Mike McCreary: The Heart of Marion
At 10:00 a.m., the district’s central office will become the Mike McCreary District Service Center. “Coach Mac” was the definition of tireless dedication. Whether he was principal, teacher, or coach, Mike McCreary spent 34 years molding young lives. He didn’t just teach wrestling; he built programs from the ground up and led with so much heart that he became known as the man who could “teach the unteachable… love the unlovable.” Coach Mac’s commitment was personal, and you felt it every time you talked to him.
Ed Henning: The Ultimate Coach
Later that day, at 4:30 p.m., the athletic facility will officially be named the Ed Henning Athletic Facility. For over 42 years and across more than 100 seasons of coaching, “Hen Dog” was a fixture on our fields and courts. Ed Henning inspired generations of athletes to “dig deep and work hard.”
As a teacher and coach, he was utterly selfless, and his commitment to developing great kids was second to none. His booming voice and encouragement shaped the character of countless Marion athletes.
The district is holding these events on Friday, October 24, 2025, at 910 East Church Street. We sincerely hope to be there to celebrate these heroes. We thank Marion City Schools, Todd Schneider, and Ed Mccants for giving us the honor of involvement in discussions leading up to this event!
Guest speakers and attendees are scheduled to include Superintendent Brian Murphy, Marion City Schools Board President Scott Weibling, Mayor Bill Collins, and Heidi Jones, President of the Marion Area Chamber of Commerce. Light refreshments will be served before and after the ceremonies.
More on these two hometown heroes soon!
