Lansing High School students had the opportunity to hear an important message of hope, resilience, and compassion as the school kicked off Mental Health Awareness Week on May 11, 2026, with a special visit from Miss Kansas Sweetheart, Katharina Mueller-Crain.
Katharina spoke to students at the beginning of each lunch period, sharing her personal journey and encouraging open conversations surrounding mental health and suicide prevention. As the founder of Pins Across Campus, Katharina has dedicated herself to helping others feel seen, supported, and never alone.
Following the loss of her father to suicide in 2020, Katharina transformed her grief into purpose by creating Pins Across Campus, an initiative focused on mental health awareness, self-care, and reducing the stigma often associated with mental health struggles.
Currently pursuing her Master of Social Work degree, Katharina uses her platform as a community leader and pageant titleholder to advocate for mental health education and meaningful connection. Her message emphasized the importance of compassion, empathy, and checking in on one another.
Katharina has a special connection to Lansing High School through her sister, Carisma, who works there as a paraprofessional. Carisma joined Katharina for the presentations, where students were encouraged to prioritize self-care, seek support when needed, and help create a school culture where conversations about mental health are welcomed and supported.
Mental Health Awareness Week provides an opportunity for students and staff across the district to continue learning about mental wellness, support systems, and the importance of caring for both ourselves and others. Lansing High School is grateful to Katharina Mueller-Crain for sharing her story and helping launch the week with such an impactful message.