Franklin County Schools is honored to highlight the exceptional achievements of Ridhi Penmecha, a senior at Western Hills High School, whose dedication and passion have made a significant impact both within our schools and the broader community.
Ridhi's commitment to tackling food insecurity is truly inspiring. Through her work at Spark Community Café, a pay-what-you-can nonprofit, Ridhi has helped provide over 85,000 meals across Central Kentucky. As a marketing intern, she skillfully manages social media, fundraising, and outreach efforts, and even contributed to designing Spark’s website. Her entrepreneurial spirit shines through her chalkboard art business, RidhiSigns (@ridhisigns), which she uses to raise awareness about food insecurity and encourage community support.
In addition to her community work, Ridhi has demonstrated outstanding leadership and academic excellence at Western Hills High School. She serves as the student council president, Beta Club president, DECA founder, and is an active member of the Future Problem Solvers team. Her leadership extends beyond school as she interns at Howard Law Group, gaining valuable legal experience.
Ridhi's accomplishments are further highlighted by her participation in prestigious programs such as the Governor’s Scholars Program, Governor’s School for Entrepreneurs, HOBY, Girls Who Code, and the Kentucky Student Voice Team. Her advocacy work with the Kentucky Student Voice Team has been particularly impactful, as she has spoken out on important issues, urging lawmakers to involve young people in the legislative process.
These remarkable achievements have earned Ridhi a spot as a 2025 Coca-Cola Scholar Foundation recipient. This prestigious award recognizes her superior leadership, service, and academic excellence, and includes a $20,000 college scholarship. Ridhi joins a distinguished group of 150 high school seniors from across the country who are making positive changes in their communities and the world.
Ridhi Penmecha embodies the values of Franklin County Schools, demonstrating that with passion, dedication, and hard work, our students can achieve remarkable things. We are incredibly proud of Ridhi and look forward to seeing her continue to make a difference in the world. We are so proud of her!!!!!
Read more about the Coca-Cola Scholar Foundation and Ridhi's selection HERE.