The Indian Hill School District celebrates the grand opening of Indian Hill High School’s new vibrant, accessible outdoor wellness space designed and developed by the Blooming Braves, a group of innovative student leaders. The official Grand Opening and
Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony took place Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at Indian Hill High School (IHHS).
This community celebration marked the realization of a student-driven vision that took root when the Blooming Braves were named finalists in last year’s The Big Pitch competition and became proud recipients of funding through the 2024 Indian Hill Foundation Brave Day of Giving. The new wellness space was imagined as a place for relaxation, reflection, and connection—accessible to all students and staff at IHHS.
“This is more than just a physical space—it’s a symbol of what’s possible when student voice is elevated and empowered,” said Indian Hill teacher and Blooming Braves mentor Molly Johnson. “The Grand Opening of the accessible outdoor learning space marks a significant achievement by our Blooming Braves and reflects our district’s unwavering commitment to providing authentic, meaningful, real-world learning experiences for all learners. With thoughtful planning and collaboration, our students have created a space designed to meet the diverse needs of the Indian Hill High School community.
“Throughout the process, our students embraced leadership roles, shared their vision, and actively engaged with community members to garner support and bring this project to life. I’m incredibly proud of their dedication and thrilled for them to experience the culmination of their hard work as they welcome our community into the space for the very first time.”
“Blooming Braves is a beautiful example of what happens when creativity, student passion, and community support come together,” said Indian Hill Foundation Executive Director Meredith Ducey. “The Indian Hill Foundation is proud to support this inspiring initiative—and we are deeply grateful to our donors, whose generosity makes opportunities like this possible.”
“The generosity of our Brave Day of Giving donors helped make this dream a reality,” said Indian Hill CFO/Treasurer Mick Davis. “This project embodies our strategic focus and investment in student leadership, and we are excited to celebrate this meaningful milestone together.”
“This is a shining example of what happens when students are given the opportunity to lead and create change,” said Indian Hill CEO/Superintendent Kirk Koennecke. “The Blooming Braves have built a space that reflects the best of Indian Hill—compassion, creativity, and community. We are grateful to our supporters and proud to showcase the talents and leadership of our students.”
Photo caption: The entire Indian Hill community was invited to attend the Grand Opening and Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony for The Blooming Braves Accessible Outdoor Wellness Space on Tuesday, May 13 at Indian Hill High School.