Growing up the youngest of four brothers, Jeffrey “Jeff” Berry had to think longer, work harder and plan smarter in order to even keep up with his siblings. Those lessons learned at a young age have followed him into adulthood and have allowed him to accomplish goals that he is quite proud of.
In his new role as Regional Program Manager, Berry will primarily serve southeast Missouri and south-central JAG-Missouri programs.
Most recently, Berry has served as the JAG Specialist at Van Buren High School where he built relationships with his students and directed many down successful life paths. The Middle and High School JAG programs he established n Van Buren have been recognized at both the local and state level for their efforts in helping and serving the small community. Berry had additional classroom teaching experience as an art instructor and coached the Lady Dawg softball team.
Before going to Van Buren, Berry spent time in the manufacturing industry as a salesman for pallet and sawmill equipment. At the same time, he was instrumental in managing a restaurant and working in the floating operations at the infamous Landing and Rosecliff Lodge in Van Buren.
Previous to that experience, Jeff taught math at the elementary level and coached at Ellington High School for five years. Along with lessons learned in childhood, Berry believes that all of his life experiences have led to preparing him to move into this leadership role in the JAG program where he hopes he can continue to make a difference in the lives of young people in Missouri.
Berry graduated from Van Buren High School in 2005 before furthering his education at Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff. Ultimately, Berry received his BS degree in Elementary Education from Hannibal LaGrange University.
Jeff and his wife, Meagan, have two children, Nolan and Mikayla, and live in Van Buren.