As a Lakeshore Public Schools board trustee for the last 15 years, Jeff Hannan has seen a lot – about 3,000 graduating students, 18 other board members, four superintendents, a recall attempt and countless other school administrators.
With Hannan choosing not to run for his seat again, his term is set to expire on Dec. 31. At his final meeting Monday, current LPS Board of Education members took turns thanking Hannan for his leadership and demeanor through the years.
“I’ve always thought of you as a colleague and a mentor – most importantly, though, just my friend,” said Board President Jason Beckrow, who has been on the board for 12 years. “You’ve been with me every step of the way, and I’ve learned a lot from you. … I respect you for your level head, your keen mind, but most importantly – like Rachel [Wade] said – a servant’s heart. So, thank you. You will be missed.”
Wade said she has always respected Hannan’s ability to ask any question, even those other may have been afraid to ask.
“You asked really thought-provoking questions and often forced me to see things from a different perspective,” Wade said. “I also respect and appreciate the fact that this is not the only way you serve your community. … Even though this service opportunity is done, I know that you will continue to serve your community in a lot of really meaningful ways.”
Superintendent Greg Eding went over some of Hannan’s past and present activities outside of the school board, which include being a member of the Lakeshore Rotary Club, volunteer with United Way of Southwest Michigan, previously serving on the board at Cornerstone Alliance and a volunteer teacher with Junior Achievement. Hannan also saw both of his children graduate from Lakeshore High School as a board member.
After everyone had their turn, Hannan addressed the board.
“Wow, 15 years – it’s crazy how quickly that’s flown by,” Hannan said. “Every step of the way, Lakeshore is moving in a positive direction. I take a lot of pride in knowing that year over year, our school district remains one of the top districts in the state of Michigan. It doesn’t come easy. It’s the staff, the administrators, and everyone in the community that really drive this. So, it’s a great feeling.”
Lori VonKoenig, who will be replacing Hannan on the board, was in attendance at the meeting.
“[We] couldn’t have found a better person to fill that role,” said Hannan, of the former Lakeshore band director. “I look forward to having you come to the board.”
Lastly, Hannan addressed some recent division within the community when it comes to Lakeshore Schools.
“I really hope this board will continue to communicate with the community and break down these barriers,” Hannan said. “I know we can do that. It’s just a matter of everyone working together and making that happen. So, thank you for everything, and I won’t be a stranger.”
(Image via Facebook)
By Ryan Yuenger
ryany@wsjm.com
