Hannibal Area CEO board announces Kendel Locke as new CEO facilitator

HANNIBAL, Mo. — The Hannibal Area CEO board has welcomed Kendel Locke as the new facilitator. A native of Hannibal and a Haslam College of Business graduate from the University of Tennessee, Locke brings invaluable business acumen to the classroom.

Locke is the proud owner of two “feel‑good fast food” restaurants under the Hula Bowls banner, with her Hannibal location recently earning the Hannibal Area Chamber of Commerce “New Business of the Year” award—highlighting her entrepreneurial drive and community impact. As a board member and marketing committee volunteer with the United Way of the Mark Twain Area, Locke demonstrates a deep commitment to service and civic leadership.

“We’re beyond excited to have someone with Kendel’s local insight and real‑world business experience guiding our students,” said Maria Kuhns, board chair, in a press release. “Her dynamic approach and passion for entrepreneurship will empower the next generation of business leaders in our community.”

Kendel expressed her enthusiasm, saying, “It’s a privilege to work with these talented young entrepreneurs. My goal is to help them build confidence, grow their networks and launch real businesses that make a positive impact.”

Hannibal Area CEO (Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities) is a hands‑on, immersive entrepreneurship course for northeast Missouri high school seniors. Students collaborate to launch a class business, tour 40+ local businesses, engage with community mentors and guest speakers and ultimately create and pitch their own individual businesses at a public trade show. The program is delivered in partnership with the Midland Institute for Entrepreneurship and funded by investors from the regional business community.

Current enrollment includes 10 students from four area high schools, and applications for the class of 2027 will be opening early next year. Learn more at the Hannibal Area CEO website: hannibalareaceo.com.