The Hook Center for Educational Leadership and District Renewal is proud to recognize educators who are shaping the future of Missouri’s schools through the Leading the Way in Missouri program. Meet the 2025 honorees:

Christopher Brandriff

When Dr. Christopher Brandriff reflects on his journey in education, he often comes back to one simple yet powerful theme: learning never stops. He began his career teaching junior high social studies, a role he held for 11 years. Those years in the classroom gave him a strong foundation in understanding students’ needs and the daily realities of teachers’ work. Read more about Christopher Brandiff.

Ben Johnson

Located in Deering, Missouri, near the southernmost point of the state, the Delta C-7 School District is one of the smallest in Missouri. Dr. Ben Johnson doesn’t view Delta C-7’s small size or limited funding as disadvantages. To him, they are opportunities, chances to think creatively, form unexpected partnerships, and prove that rural schools can deliver big results. “I want these kids to have the same opportunities, the same aspects as everybody else. So that’s really been my focus… I’m keeping going and bringing unique experiences for our kids that they wouldn’t normally get.” Dr. Johnson stated. Read more about Ben Johnson. 

Grenita Lathan

When Dr. Grenita Lathan became superintendent of Springfield Public Schools (SPS) in 2021, she stepped into Missouri’s largest district with 25,000 students and more than 3,500 employees. From the start, she prioritized accessibility, transparency, and collaboration. “I’ve always tried to be a leader that is accessible,” Dr. Lathan said. “I want people to understand that I’m just an everyday person, that I’m an educator, a parent, a community member, and that they have access to me. Sometimes the access might not be what they want, but I want to make myself available. I want to meet people where they are.” Read more about Grenita Lathan.

Abigail Verts

In 2024, Abigail Verts stepped into a 7th grade science teaching role for the first time, despite being trained in elementary education. Instead of letting the unfamiliar hold her back, she embraced the challenge and found ways to adapt and thrive in her new middle school environment in California, Missouri. “I’ve always loved serving people. I’ve always loved helping people, and that just translated into a classroom, being able to help them grow, and help them learn life skills, and what it means to be a human being on this planet, and so it’s just absolutely amazing,” Ms. Verts said. Read more about Abigail Verts.