Leading the Way - April 9, 2026

Leading Moments From Across the District

Big Ideas. Bold Voices. Real Impact:

Inside The Big Pitch

Just before break, student entrepreneurship, innovation and creativity were on full display once again at the 4th iteration of the "Big Pitch" Finale Event!

“The Big Pitch” stands as a dynamic, real-world learning experience where Indian Hill High School students transform innovative ideas into actionable ventures. Modeled after a “Shark Tank”-style competition, the program challenges students to think entrepreneurially, collaborate effectively, and present solutions with confidence. This year, 30 students submitted 18 business ideas, culminating in four finalist teams pitching to an accomplished panel of industry leaders.

Two standout ventures, Assistly and SpeakUP, earned top honors, demonstrating both creativity and meaningful impact.

What makes “The Big Pitch” truly powerful is its focus beyond competition, it is about purpose-driven innovation. SpeakUP is expanding access to public speaking education for younger students nationwide, equipping them with essential communication skills early on. Meanwhile, Assistly connects students with local job opportunities, bridging gaps between families and youth employment in the community. These ventures reflect how students are not only identifying real needs but actively building solutions that create tangible value both locally and nationally.

At its core, “The Big Pitch” represents a broader commitment to experiential learning, leadership development, and community connection. Supported by the Indian Hill Foundation and embedded within the district’s leadership programming, the initiative empowers students to lead with confidence, resilience, and purpose. Through mentorship, collaboration, and authentic application of their learning, students are developing the skills and mindset needed to make a lasting impact, both within Indian Hill and far beyond graduation.

An enormous Thank You goes out to our incredible judges and the IHFoundation for giving us the gift of your time, expertise and commitment to students!

Click on the image below to watch the Professional Video highlighting this year's Big Pitch Finale Event!

No Straight Lines: Exploring Purpose, Possibility, and the Future of STEM Careers

The IHEXP Career Connections STEM Panel offered a compelling look into the reality that career pathways are rarely linear, and that’s exactly what makes them powerful. Featuring professionals from diverse academic backgrounds, the panel reinforced that success in STEM is driven by curiosity, adaptability, and a willingness to explore. Students were encouraged to view their early experiences as opportunities for discovery, learning what they don’t enjoy just as much as what they do, while embracing a mindset of taking consistent action. The message was clear: growth comes from momentum, and those who actively pursue opportunities create their own direction.

A central theme throughout the discussion was the importance of learning by doing. Internships were framed not just as résumé builders, but as critical “flavor tests” that help students understand workplace culture and refine their interests. The panelists emphasized that waiting for the “perfect” opportunity is less valuable than starting, building skills independently, pursuing passions, and gaining experience through action. This same philosophy echoed in real-world applications, where even failed experiments and unexpected outcomes often provide the most meaningful learning and growth.

As the conversation turned to the evolving role of AI, students were challenged to think about what will set them apart in an increasingly automated world. While technology can enhance efficiency, it cannot replace authenticity, character, and human perspective. The panel closed with a powerful reminder: there are no fixed rules for success. Students were encouraged to lean into discomfort, lead with integrity, and prioritize being someone others want to work with. In a rapidly changing world, those who remain grounded, genuine, and open to growth will ultimately lead the way.

Huge Shoutout to Senior, Charlie Warfel, and Junior, Neelan Gandhi for setting up this opportunity and leading throughout the entire planning and execution process!

Inside the Lab: Exploring Science, Resilience, and the Future of Cancer Research

Late last month, a small group of IHEXP students were given a remarkable opportunity to step inside the pediatric cancer research facilities at Cincinnati Children’s, gaining firsthand exposure to the innovative work led by, IH Parent, Dr. Daniel Starczynowski and his team. As a leading molecular cancer biologist, Dr. Starczynowski opened students’ eyes to the wide range of career pathways within biomedical research, from principal investigators who guide discovery to the critical roles played by staff scientists and lab technicians. He shared that his passion is fueled by the freedom to explore meaningful questions in blood cancer research, emphasizing that the heart of science lies in learning how to ask, and answer, the most important questions.

Throughout the visit, students were challenged to rethink what success in science truly looks like. Dr. Starczynowski offered a powerful analogy: unlike a puzzle with a clear picture, scientific research often begins without knowing what the final outcome should be. This uncertainty demands resilience, especially in a field where the majority of experiments may not yield expected results. Rather than viewing failure as a setback, students learned it is an essential part of discovery, an opportunity to dig deeper, analyze outcomes, and refine thinking. The conversation also highlighted how modern research environments are evolving, with labs functioning much like small businesses and increasingly intersecting with biotech innovation. Emerging technologies, including AI tools are helping accelerate discovery by streamlining data analysis and allowing researchers to focus more deeply on complex scientific questions.

Equally impactful was the emphasis on the human side of research. Dr. Starczynowski and the STARLAB team underscored the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and self-awareness in shaping a successful career. Students were encouraged to stay curious, pay attention to details, and prioritize the success of the team over individual recognition. They were also reminded to be present and intentional, recognizing that opportunities often exist right in front of them if they are open to seeing them. The visit served not only as an introduction to cutting-edge science, but as a powerful lesson in leadership, perseverance, and purpose.

Jeff Damadeo, Director of K-12 Leadership & Career Development

Jeff.Damadeo@ihsd.us

Twitter: @indianhillEC

My #IHPromise - to work tirelessly for our students, providing them with the most exceptional educational opportunities & experiences to help ensure that they develop into outstanding academic students and future ready individuals!