FIRST Indiana Robotics (FIN) proudly announces the
appointment of its new Student Board of Directors (SBoD) for the upcoming 2025-2026 academic year. This dynamic group comprises twenty-two outstanding high school students from grades 10 through 12, selected to champion youth robotics statewide and drive forward innovative ideas.
Meet the 2025-2026 Student Board of Directors
Selected from FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) and FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) programs,
these students exemplify exceptional leadership, dedication, and a profound passion for STEM.
Leading the board this year is Melina Mata, a senior from Morton High School in Hammond,
serving as President.
“I’m honored to lead the FIRST Indiana Robotics Student Board of Directors this year,” said
Melina Mata. “My goal is to amplify student voices across the state, foster stronger team
connections, and expand leadership opportunities that reflect the diversity and enthusiasm of
our robotics community.”
To view profiles of the student board and learn more, visit our website at
https://www.firstindianarobotics.org/student-board/.
Name School/Group City
Melina Mata – President Morton High School Hammond
Hannah Harvey – VP of FTC Avon High School Avon
Liam McNeely – VP of FRC Brownsburg High School Brownsburg
Harshil Gandhi – Secretary Columbus Robotics Columbus
Rima Bell Career Academy South Bend
Jackson Bosecker North Posey High School Poseyville
Mason Cherwa Plainfield High School Plainfield
Edward Choi RoboBoosters Bloomington
Vyom Desai Columbus Robotics Columbus
Mason Hagan Mount Vernon High School Mount Vernon
Audrey Hammer Carmel High School Carmel
Hafsa Heryadi West Lafayette Jr/Sr High School West Lafayette
Peyton Holloway Avon High School Avon
Krysta Holman Career Academy South Bend
Emma Langlais Carmel High School Carmel
Jiping Liu RoboBoosters Bloomington
Brighid O’Toole Terre Haute North Terre Haute
Faith Opafola Brownsburg High School Brownsburg
Aarit Raju Center Grove High School Greenwood
Liberty Scanlin New Prairie High School New Carlisle
Andy Scarfone Superior STEAM Bedford
Sophia Yang West Lafayette Jr/Sr High School West Lafayette
Expectations and Responsibilities
Members of the SBoD are committed to upholding the highest standards of conduct and
embodying Gracious Professionalism® in all interactions. They will spearhead impactful
projects, coordinate statewide monthly meetings, and participate in a variety of events
throughout the year, including competitions, ecosystem development, and community outreach
initiatives.
The SBoD will play a pivotal role in promoting the FIRST Robotics community, ensuring
equitable access to STEM educational opportunities for all students. They will lead initiatives
such as Statehouse Advocacy Day, professional conferences, and local community
engagements, advocating for the growth and impact of FIRST Robotics in Indiana.
“I’m honored to have been selected for SBoD and excited for the opportunity to meet people
from across the state and contribute to something where I can make a positive impact in the
world of robotics.” Audrey Hammer, Sophomore from Carmel.
Looking Ahead
The 2025-2026 SBoD members launched their term with a retreat and orientation at RB Annis
School of Engineering on the UIndy campus, where they received training and set goals for the
year ahead. They will continue to engage in professional conferences, local outreach activities,
and conduct listening sessions at robotics events with peers.
“Each year the Student Board of Directors makes a tremendous impact on the FIRST
community and across the state as leaders in STEAM! I am sure this group will continue that
tradition.” Chris Osborne, Director of Programs, FIRST Indiana Robotics.
Join Us in Congratulating the New SBoD Members
FIRST Indiana Robotics invites media, schools, community groups, local government offices,
and robotics teams throughout the state to join us in congratulating these outstanding students
on their selection, and to support them in their endeavors throughout the year. Their dedication
and leadership will undoubtedly make a significant impact on youth robotics in Indiana.
For more information about FIRST Indiana Robotics and the Student Board of Directors, please
visit firstindianarobotics.org or contact Chris Osborne cosborne@indianafirst.org.
About FIRST Indiana Robotics
FIRST Indiana Robotics is dedicated to inspiring young people to become leaders and
innovators in science and technology. Through mentor-based programs, students develop
critical skills and pursue STEM careers, ensuring every young person in Indiana has the
opportunity to participate and build a brighter future through STEM education.
About FIRST
Founded in 1989 by inventor Dean Kamen, FIRST® (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science
and Technology) is a global nonprofit organization that prepares young people for the future
through team-based robotics programs. Supported by a network of volunteers, educators, and
sponsors, FIRST participants gain invaluable skills and opportunities that extend beyond
robotics.