10/10/2026
HOMECOMING PRE-GAME: CHS Football Homecoming 2026 was the perfect setting for Blue Jays young and old to return home for an epic night at the John Harris Marshall Athletic Complex.
The pre-game ceremony included the CHS Band performing the National Anthem (led by director Trevor Robinson), an invocation by Pastor Rodney Dunlap, and a Student Council presentation of honorees.
STUCO's guests of honor were Grand Marshal Glenn Fennell, Jr. and Alumnus of the Year Mary Jane Whitehead.
According to the presentations:
“Glenn is the son of Denise Fennell and Glenn and Wonda Fennell, and he is a proud 2011 graduate of Charleston High School. During his time as a Bluejay, Glenn was a four-year football player and a four-year baseball player, building lifelong friendships and memories while proudly representing his hometown. One of the highlights of Glenn's high school career came as a member of the 2011 Charleston baseball team. That team made history as the only baseball team in Charleston school history to win a district championship and advance to the Final Four, playing at Drury University in Springfield, Missouri. Glenn was proud to be part of that special group of Bluejays who put Charleston baseball on the map. After high school, Glenn attended Southeast Missouri State University before beginning a career with Menards. What started as a job turned into a 12-year career, as Glenn worked his way up through the ranks and gained valuable experience along the way. But, as the saying goes, sometimes you just can't stay away from home. Glenn eventually made his way back to Charleston, and the community couldn't be happier that he did. He is now entering his third year as a teacher in the Charleston R-1 School District, where he teaches Middle School History. Glenn has also returned to the sidelines and ballfields, serving as the Head Middle School Football Coach and an Assistant Baseball Coach. And if you happen to find yourself at Hillhouse Park, there is a good chance you'll find Glenn doing what he does best — feeding people! Known as the Fighting Squirrel Chef, Glenn has turned the Hillhouse Park concession stand into something far beyond your ordinary ballpark concession stand. His cooking has become part of the Hillhouse Park experience, and it's no secret that Glenn is considered the best cook in his family — a title we're sure his family would happily debate! From a Charleston Bluejay athlete, to a college student, to a 12-year career with Menards, to a teacher, coach, chef, and mentor, Glenn's journey has ultimately brought him right back where he belongs — home in Charleston. Glenn represents so much of what makes a hometown special: a love for the community, a commitment to the next generation, a passion for sports, and a willingness to give back to the place that helped shape him. Charleston is proud to have you home, Glenn!”
“Mary Jane Whitehead, a 1974 graduate of CHS, is Blue Jay Alumni of the Year. Mary Jane exemplifies what it means to be a Blue Jay through her years of dedicated service, her commitment to the Charleston community, and her unwavering support of Blue Jay students and activities. Mary Jane devoted 30 years to the Charleston R-1 School District, where she served not only as a teacher but also as a mentor, supporter, and champion of students. During her time at CHS, she coached high school cheerleading, managed all concession stands, and served as Student Council sponsor. Her dedication extended far beyond the classroom, as she worked tirelessly to support school activities and create memorable experiences for students.
Her commitment to serving others has continued well beyond her retirement in 2008. Mary Jane remains an active and valued member of the community. She is involved in the United Methodist Church Handbell Choir and Praise Choir and serves as chairman of the Family Life Center. She also delivers Meals on Wheels for the local nutrition center and is a member of the Molly French Garden Club. Although retired, Mary Jane has never stepped away from her Blue Jay family. She continues to substitute in the schools, and you can often find her in the stands cheering on the Blue Jays at sporting events. She generously cooks meals for athletic teams, supports the Alumni Association, and is always willing to purchase from a Blue Jay selling something for a fundraiser. If a Blue Jay needs support, Mary Jane is there! Mary Jane's life reflects the very best of Blue Jay pride. Her generosity, loyalty, and willingness to give her time and talents to others have made a lasting impact on generations of students, fellow educators, and community members. She is a wonderful example of someone who understands that being a Blue Jay is more than graduating from Charleston High School—it is a lifelong commitment to supporting the school and community that helped shape you. Congratulations to Mary Jane Whitehead, our Blue Jay Alumni of the Year! Thank you for a lifetime of service, generosity, and Blue Jay pride. Once a Blue Jay, always a Blue Jay!”
Certificates were presented by Student Council President, Stewart C**n, and Student Council Sponsor, Lenzi Householder. Congratulations to all of the honorees!
