An Indian Hill High School student turned an experiential learning opportunity into an extraordinary recognition during Cincy AI Week, earning the 2026 AI Next Generation Award as part of the Cincinnati AI Leadership Awards. Hannah Joseph attended Cincy AI Week through Indian Hill Experienceships, an initiative connecting students with authentic, real-world learning opportunities that operates within the Indian Hill Entrepreneurs’ Center. Joseph participated through the district’s partnership with Cincinnati AI Catalyst, giving her the opportunity to learn alongside professionals exploring the rapidly evolving possibilities of artificial intelligence.

“Cincy AI Week was incredibly eye opening. I learned so much about the possibilities of AI, but my biggest takeaway was something entirely different: initiative has no age requirement,” said Joseph. “Surrounded by hundreds of professionals, I chose not to let being the youngest person in the room make me the quietest. I introduced myself to everyone, asked tons of questions, stayed after to meet speakers, and pitched my nonprofit, Seniors Go Digital. That initiative ultimately made me the first teenager ever considered for, and honored with, a Cincinnati AI Leadership Award.

“It showed me that being the youngest person in the room does not limit the impact you can make when you are willing to step forward.”

Joseph was ultimately honored with the 2026 AI Next Generation Award, recognizing her as an emerging leader during Cincy AI Week.

“Hannah represents what we hope for every Indian Hill High School student, the courage to step into an unfamiliar space, the curiosity to learn from the people around her, and the confidence to contribute her own ideas,” said Indian Hill High School Principal Andy Gruber. “Through opportunities like Experienceships and our partnership with Cincinnati AI Catalyst, our students can move beyond simply learning about the future and begin helping shape it. Hannah took full advantage of that opportunity, and this recognition speaks volumes about her initiative, leadership, and willingness to make an impact.”

Photo caption: Indian Hill High School student Hannah Joseph was honored with the 2026 AI Next Generation Award, recognizing her as an emerging leader during Cincy AI Week.