The Indiana Academic All-Stars program is a highly competitive award that honors seniors who excel in academics, leadership, and community service. Selection is based on course rigor, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, and community leadership. The Top 40 students are chosen to represent the entire state.
Senior Kahaan Modi was selected as Hamilton Southeastern’s nominee after previously being recognized as an Indiana Academic Rising Star during his junior year. This recognition placed him among a select group of high-achieving students across Indiana.
“I found out that I was being nominated by our school for being an Indiana Academic All-Star by Mr. Davidson when he called me into his office and told me that I’d be receiving HSE’s nomination,” Modi said.
Modi is ranked among the top students in his class and plans to attend Indiana University to study public policy at the Kelley School of Business. He has a strong academic interest in government, economics, and history, and he hopes to eventually attend law school. He has also earned recognition as a National Merit Commended Student, Kelley Scholars Finalist, National Mock Trial Judicial Champion, Leonard Bernstein Musicianship Award recipient, and Indiana Public Forum Debate State Champion.
“I’ve always been really interested in the interactions between business and public policy,” Modi said.
In addition to his academic success, Modi is involved in speech and debate, mock trial, and varsity tennis. He also participates in orchestra, National Honor Society, and is the co-founder of Aspiring Musicians, further expanding his leadership and collaborative abilities.
“All of these experiences are things that have really sharpened me as a thinker and a student,” Modi said. “They have given me new communities and other people that have helped me be in this position today.”
Throughout his high school career, Modi has also been influenced by educators who helped develop his skills. He specifically highlighted his AP Language and Composition teacher, Mrs. Bakle, for her impact on his academic journey, critical thinking abilities, and overall curiosity.
“Mrs. Bakle was instrumental in developing my critical thinking skills as a high schooler,” Modi said. “Her class made me interested in writing, business, and social studies.”
Beyond academics and other achievements, Modi is most proud of the relationships he has built during his time in high school and the community he has formed with his peers. He emphasized the importance of those connections and the lasting impact they will have after graduation.
“It makes me really proud to know that I have some of the most talented friends that will also do excellent things in the world,” Modi said.
For Modi, this recognition represents years of consistent effort and growth. He views this award as a reflection of his dedication and discipline over the past four years.
“[This award] is a testament to all the hard work that I’ve put in over the course of my high school experience,” Modi said. “I’m incredibly proud of all of my accomplishments and what I have done throughout my high school career.”
