Children Spotlight of the Week: Ishita “Ishi” Ohri
This week, we are thrilled to spotlight an extraordinary young leader from New Albany, Ohio: Ishita Ohri, or as her friends affectionately call her, Ishi. A senior at New Albany High School, Ishi has built an impressive legacy of academic excellence, leadership, and creative impact.
A National Merit Finalist, AP Scholar with Distinction, and recipient of the prestigious Governor’s Merit Scholarship, Ishi is also a proud Morrill Scholar and is fully committed to attending The Ohio State University’s main campus this fall. She will be majoring in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) on a pre-law track, driven by a passion for justice and advocacy.
Beyond the classroom, Ishi leads with purpose. She has been an active member of Ohio Model United Nations for three years and now serves as Council President, guiding peers through complex global discussions. Her leadership extends to the stage as well, she served as Co-President and Speaker Director for TEDxNewAlbany, where she helped curate impactful, thought-provoking talks that elevated underrepresented voices.
Ishi’s creativity shines through her Senior Seminar project, a powerful collection of collage paintings that explore the struggles and triumphs of minority communities. Through themes of race, sexuality, religion, and gender, her artwork offers a bold and empathetic reflection on identity and inclusion.
When she’s not organizing, leading, or creating, Ishi can be found with her headphones on constantly immersed in music, podcasts, audiobooks, or binge-worthy shows (current favorite: Eternal Sunshine Deluxe on repeat!). An avid reader and painter, she also loves making matcha or brewing the perfect cup of coffee, even if cooking and baking aren’t exactly her forte.
With a heart for advocacy, a mind built for big ideas, and a voice dedicated to sparking change, Ishita Ohri is a shining example of the power of youth leadership. We can’t wait to see the impact she’ll continue to make at Ohio State and beyond.
