School board member Lanny Boswell dies after battle with cancer

April 10, 2025

The Lincoln Board of Education and Lincoln Public Schools shared on Thursday that school board member Lanny Boswell died Wednesday after an 18-month battle with oral cancer. Boswell was finishing his third term on the Lincoln Board of Education at the end of May - serving the students, staff, families and community for 12 years.

“We mourn the passing of Lanny as a longtime public servant, and an incredibly dedicated school board member,” said Interim Superintendent John Skretta. “The legacy of his many years of service on the board to support LPS students, staff, families and the greater district leaves a remarkable impact that will continue for decades to come.”

Skretta added, “We express our heartfelt condolences to Lanny‘s family and the countless others in LPS, Lincoln and across Nebraska who called him a friend.”

Boswell was first elected to the Lincoln Board of Education representing District Five in May 2013. Prior to being elected to the board, Boswell first got involved as a parent-volunteer on the PTO and Booster Club boards for Maxey and Zeman elementary schools and East and Southeast high schools. Boswell also served as a community volunteer on numerous LPS committees. Some of those committees included the Student Housing Task Force, the Community Curriculum Council, the Safety and Security Committee, the Special Education Parent Advisory Committee, the Technology Advisory Committee, the Superintendent Interview Team and the Foundation for Lincoln Public Schools Board of Directors. 

Board Chair Bob Rauner first met Boswell on one of these committees.

“I first met Lanny on the parent interview committee when we interviewed Steve Joel for the superintendent position before either of us was on the school board,” said Rauner. “I was always impressed by his analytical mind as well his passion for improving Lincoln Public Schools and finding better ways to serve our students. His presence as a colleague on the school board will be sorely missed.”

During his service on the board, Boswell held many leadership positions both on the Board and in affiliate organizations. He was Board President, Vice President, Educational Service Unit 18 President, The Career Academy Interlocal Board President, The Safe and Successful Kids Interlocal Board President, and the President of Nebraska Association of School Boards. He used his experience to mentor other civil servants from across the city and state.

“Lanny played an instrumental role in preparing me for serving on the Board of Education,” said board member Piyush Srivastav. “From the time that I was campaigning, Lanny not only knocked on the doors for me, but he also spent a significant amount of time with me educating me on various aspects of board service so that I could be prepared for what may be ahead if I succeeded in elections. After I got on the board, Lanny would always be available and offered solid advice on miscellaneous matters to steer me in the right direction. I will miss Lanny's friendship and counsel. Lanny truly cared for LPS and gave his 100% to support LPS in any way possible. His courage and strength should be an inspiration to all.”

Boswell had five children that attended Lincoln Public Schools. He often credited LPS for their success and was dedicated to giving back to the district that did so much for his family, something his colleagues on the board noticed.

Board member Barb Baier commented, “Lanny was totally dedicated to his family and the Lincoln Public Schools. When I first met him, he would testify at Board of Education meetings about a range of topics. His thoughts were always well-considered. Upon securing a seat on the board, Lanny was an incredibly active board member, visiting schools, addressing constituent concerns, and always mindful of our budget. I will miss him. My condolences to his family.”

In 2016, Boswell responded on a questionnaire to LPS Communications that he wanted all LPS students to be prepared to be successful adults, ready for college, careers, and all that awaits them in life. 

“When my board service is finished, I hope to be remembered as a thoughtful volunteer who cared about the success of all students,” wrote Boswell in 2016. That is how board Vice Chair Kathy Danek remembers Boswell.

“Lanny served with a passion for Lincoln Public Schools and leaves a lasting legacy as a champion for our students, staff, teachers and school district. Whether it was a policy issue, planning for and preparing a bond issue, leading our strategic plan or engaging with students, Lanny was a champion for all students in Lincoln. All means all wasn’t just three words to Lanny, but a mantra of board service. As his friend for almost 20 years, his attention to detail always guided his efforts to make sure each and every child could be successful. Lanny will be greatly missed as my colleague and my friend,” said Danek.

A visitation for family and friends of Boswell will be held Wednesday, April 16, from 4-7 p.m. at Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home (6800 South 14th Street). More information and his full obituary can be found on the Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home website www.lincolnfh.com.

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