Chamber Press Releases
Mark DeJaynes recognized as Stribling Community Service Award Recipient
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Mexico Area Chamber of Commerce To Honor Mark DeJaynes with C.R. Stribling Community Service Award
MEXICO, MISSOURI — The Mexico Area Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce that Mark DeJaynes, a dedicated business owner and community leader, has been selected as the recipient of the C.R. Stribling Community Service Award. This distinguished honor, the most prestigious of six awards to be presented, recognizes DeJaynes' exceptional contributions to the community of Mexico, Missouri. The award will be presented at the Chamber’s Annual Meeting and Dinner on February 28th,2025 at the Audrain County 4-H Center.
The C.R. Stribling Community Service Award is presented each year to a recipient nominated exclusively by past Chamber presidents. This award celebrates sustained efforts toward the betterment of the community, with a focus on selflessness, dedication, and positive impact over an extended period.
Mark DeJaynes has been an integral part of the Mexico community since 1991. Born in Quincy, Illinois, to Lyle and Joan DeJaynes, he was raised in Timewell, Il. DeJaynes relocated to Mexico and has since made a lasting impact through his service and passion for the community. He began his career as a stylist in 1995, having trained at Hart Career Centers Cosmetology School, where he continues to serve on the advisory board. As the owner of A Marked Salon, DeJaynes is known not only for his excellence in business but for his commitment to helping others, particularly through his volunteer work. In recognition of his business acumen and service, A Marked Salon was the 2016 recipient of the Chamber's E. Warner Williams Business Service Award.
DeJaynes’ service extends across numerous organizations. He has served on the Board of Directors for Presser Arts Center and contributed as the stylist for their productions for over 27 seasons. His commitment to community service is evident in his involvement with the Miss Audrain and Miss Missouri pageants, as well as in his volunteer work with the Back To School Health Fair, where he provided haircuts for children.
An active member of First Presbyterian Church, DeJaynes serves as a Deacon and participates on the Pastoral Care committee. Additionally, he is a member of the Village Square Association, and served on the board of the Audrain Historical Society, where he received the 2022 President’s Award. In 2024, he became the first recipient of the Mexico Ledger’s “Mexico Hidden Hero” award, further acknowledging his dedication to making a difference.
DeJaynes also serves on the Mexico Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and is a valuable part of the “Give Cancer the Boot” Committee. Through his monthly “Look Good, Feel Good” events, he helped many women undergoing cancer treatment by providing styling and caring support. As a foster parent and a volunteer with the Jellybean Conspiracy, DeJaynes exemplifies compassion and a commitment to community that is both personal and enduring.
When asked about his motivation, DeJaynes shared, “Nothing good happens until you show up. The things I do are for myself as much as for others—they make me feel good.” Reflecting on his extensive volunteer work, he added, “I have learned something different from each...”
In addition to presenting the Col. C. R. Stribling Award, several other awards will be given throughout the evening.
G. Andy Runge Ambassador Award: Sebastien Heintz
Civic Award: Rush Hill Community Church
Excellence In Tourism Award: Ben & Darla Eggers
Educator Of The Year: Stephanie Robinett
President’s Award: Tad Dobyns