Marion board names district service center for longtime coach Michael "Mac" McCreery, dedicates Grant fitness center to Ed Henning

The Marion City Schools Board of Education on Oct. 20 approved two proclamations honoring longtime district coaches and administrators, naming the district service center for Michael J. “Coach Mac” McCreery and dedicating the Grant fitness center for Edwin D. Henning.

Superintendent Murphy recommended the two dedications as permanent tributes to the men’s decades of service to Marion City Schools and the community. The board voted to adopt both proclamations after brief remarks from board members and colleagues who described the men’s influence on students and staff.

Why this matters: both dedications place the names of well‑known local educators on district facilities used daily by staff, students and community partners, making their legacies visible to families and employees.

Murphy told the board that McCreery dedicated more than 34 years to Marion City Schools as a teacher, coach and administrator and was known for his motivating presence, the proclamation said. The text included biographical details such as his Ohio State University degree, service as a U.S. Army officer, and induction into the Marion Harding Athletic Hall of Fame in February 2025.

Board members and former students spoke in support of the naming. One board member said McCreery “knew every body” and recalled that he would sign off each day with the phrase, “and remember, I love you,” a line the proclamation attributed to McCreery’s habit of encouraging students.

The board then approved a second proclamation to name the Grant High School fitness facility the Edwin D. Henning Fitness Center. The proclamation records that Henning gave more than 45 years to Marion City Schools, led more than 110 athletic seasons in multiple sports and was inducted into the Harding High School Athletic Hall of Fame in February 2019.

Board members described Henning as a disciplinarian who also connected with students, calling his coaching era the most successful period in Harding wrestling history and crediting him with mentoring generations of athletes and educators.

Formal actions and outcome: The board moved and seconded both proclamations and approved them by roll call. For the McCreery dedication the roll call recorded all members present voting yes. The Henning fitness center dedication similarly passed on unanimous roll call.

The district said it will host public ceremonies and unveilings at the two facilities; the superintendent announced press conferences and live streams for the upcoming sign unveilings and guest remembrances.

The board photo opportunities and follow‑up events were announced at the meeting; the dedications will be scheduled with district communications as part of the district’s public ceremonies.