Riju Dey, a graduating senior at Shorewood High School, was named one of 620 semifinalists in the 2022 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program. The semifinalists were selected from over 5,000 candidates expected to graduate from U.S. high schools in the year 2022.
Inclusion in the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, now in its 58th year, is one of the highest honors bestowed upon graduating high school seniors. Scholars are selected on the basis of their accomplishments in many areas-academic and artistic success, accomplishment in career and technical fields, leadership, strong character and involvement in school and the community.
“[Riju] we appreciate your participation in the program and values your outstanding achievement,” says the Commission on Presidential Scholars. “It is a great honor and an exceptional accomplishment to have reached the semifinalist phase in this highly selective and prestigious program. On behalf of the Commission and the U.S. Department of Education, we wish you every success! Most of all, thank you for the creativity, discipline, and pursuit of excellence you have shown in your various endeavors, and for the inspiration your example provides to countless other young people.”
The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964 by Executive Order of the President to recognize some of our nation's most distinguished graduating seniors for their accomplishments in academics, leadership, and service to school and community. It was expanded in 1979 to recognize students demonstrating exceptional scholarship and talent in the visual, creative, and performing arts. In 2015, the program was expanded once again to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical fields. Annually, up to 161 U.S. Presidential Scholars are chosen from among· that year's senior class, representing excellence in education and the promise of greatness in America's youth. Each year Scholars are presented with a Presidential Scholars Medallion.
A distinguished panel of educators reviewed these submissions and selected 620 semifinalists. From there, the Commission on Presidential Scholars, a group of up to 32 eminent citizens appointed by the President, selected the finalists.
For more information about the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, visit: https://www2.ed.gov/programs/psp/index.html