Topic: Topeka Rescue Mission

Interview of Frank Henderson, May 21, 2025

Interviewed by Mark Tallman

In this 2025 oral history interview, Frank Henderson recounts his journey from a small western Kansas farming community to becoming a prominent leader in public education. He reflects on his service on the local school board, where he helped modernize student opportunities and navigated a contentious community debate regarding the district's namesake. Henderson also discussed his leadership role at the state level with the Kansas Association of School Boards and the national level with the National School Board Association, where he advocated for marginalized students and adequate educational funding. Drawing from his background in social services and the criminal justice Show Moresystem, he emphasized the critical connection between overcoming the opportunity gap and ensuring that every child can succeed. At the time of this interview he was continuing his lifelong passion for education by guiding districts in selecting superintendents who match their community needs. Show Less