Nikita Ganesh, graduating with a double major in Chinese language and psychological science, will be awarded the University’s Merrill P. Freeman Medal.
Ganesh is one of two recipients of the medal, which is named in honor of Merrill Freeman, who served the University of Arizona as a regent and chancellor. Qualifications for the award include outstanding character.
Ganesh is a first-generation Indian American student originally from Phoenix. Ganesh spent most of her formative education years outside the United States. At age 12, she moved to Bangalore, India. From there, she relocated to Hong Kong and later Shanghai. After graduating from Shanghai American School, she chose to return home and attend the University of Arizona.
Outside the classroom, Ganesh has been a starting player on the women's rugby team since her freshman year and has served as the team’s vice president for the past two years. She takes comfort in knowing she has created a pathway for women – regardless of shape and size – to be a part of a sport made for everyone. Ganesh was involved with SOPHOS Sophomore Honorary and Links Junior Honorary. She is also a part of Alpha Kappa Psi and has was crowned Homecoming queen this year.
Interning at an immigration law firm her junior year solidified Ganesh's desire to pursue a legal career. Through her honors thesis on reporting attitudes with respect to Title IX changes, Ganesh has been able to put her passion for the legal field into action as an undergraduate. She looks forward to dedicating her professional career to ensuring equal access to justice.
After graduation, Ganesh will pursue a law degree at the University of Pennsylvania with a Dean's Fellow scholarship.
Originally published by University Communications.