Lansing School District 158 and Village Leaders Connect with Students for ‘Lunch with Leadership’

LANSING, Ill. — Lansing School District 158 recently hosted a “Lunch with Leadership” event at Coolidge, Oak Glen, Reavis, and Memorial schools on Wednesday, March 18, in partnership with Whitsons Culinary Group. The initiative brought together local leaders and students for a collaborative experience focused on health, nutrition, and wellness.

Mayor Brian Hardy, Police Chief Al Phillips, and Fire Chief Chad Kooyenga joined three school board members and district administrators in serving lunch to students. Superintendent Nathan Schilling highlighted the event as an opportunity for community leaders to engage with students and support a positive school environment.

“This was a chance for local leaders to engage with students and our food service staff to support health, nutrition, and wellness,” said Superintendent Schilling according to a statement. “We are remarkably fortunate to have such a collaborative culture in Lansing that brings together community leaders to support students like this.”

District 158 Trustee Roneta Stubbs also participated, assisting in serving food to students. The event underscored the strong partnership between the school district and the Village of Lansing.

Mayor Hardy Engages with the Community

Mayor Brian Hardy, elected in 2025 after serving two terms as a Trustee on the Village Board, has been actively involved in community initiatives. He is the owner and operator of Chicago’s Finest Ironworks, a Lansing business he has run for over 36 years as noted on the Village of Lansing website. He also participates in community organizations like the Lansing Copper Muggers service club.

Recent Community Engagement Events

This event follows other recent initiatives aimed at fostering community engagement. On March 5, 2026, Mayor Hardy held the first edition of “Coffee with the Mayor,” featuring Police Chief Al Phillips as a special guest as reported on Facebook. On January 26, 2026, Mayor Hardy announced the return of the Village’s July 4th fireworks show during another “Coffee with the Mayor” event according to The Lansing Journal.