Rajni V. Harsh, PhD
Dr. Rajni Harsh is a highly accomplished educator with over three decades of experience in teaching and academic leadership. She has spent the majority of her career at Walnut Hills High School in Cincinnati, Ohio, where she has taught AP Biology, a college-level course offered to high school students, since 1998. Known for her ability to connect with students, Dr. Harsh has been an active member of the Cum Laude Society and the Continuous Improvement Committee, earning recognition for both her teaching excellence and her mentorship. Her approachability and positive influence make her a respected role model among students and colleagues alike.
Before joining Walnut Hills High School, Dr. Harsh taught at Woodside Childcare in Cleveland and at St. Joseph High School in Abu Dhabi, gaining valuable experience in nurturing young minds and fostering a love for learning. Inspired by her father, a college professor, she embarked on a career in education that would span continents and generations of students. Her dedication to education has been acknowledged through accolades such as the Golden Apple Award in 2012, reflecting her outstanding contributions to teaching and student development.
Dr. Harsh holds a PhD in Botany/Plant Biology from the University of Rajasthan, India, and earlier earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in biological sciences from Maharani College. Her academic background laid a strong foundation for her career, and she credits her success to the support of her family and mentors, including Jim Byerly and Jeff Lazar. Outside the classroom, she enjoys family life with her husband, an economist, their two sons, and two grandchildren, and pursues hobbies such as cooking, stitching, and dancing. Her life exemplifies a balance of professional excellence, continuous learning, and personal fulfillment.
• University of Rajasthan, India- Ph.D.
• Marquis Who's Who
• Cum Laude Committee
• Science Congress in India
• College Club for Women
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the guidance of two key mentors, Mr. Lazar and Jim Byerly, and to the opportunity to mentor newer teachers, including preparing a colleague to take over my AP Biology classes before my retirement.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Don't take negative comments from a student personally, they might had a bad day or frustrated from something else. Don't raise your voice, save it for teaching.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering education is to ensure that their motivation comes from passion, not money, because true fulfillment in teaching comes from a love of learning and helping students grow.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Teachers do not get full freedom to teach the way they would like to teach, because leaders take control.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in my work and personal life are fostering community, promoting respect, and creating a safe and supportive environment where students can thrive.