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NEWPORT — Two graduating seniors at Newport High School have been named two of more than 5,000 candidates in the 2025 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.
Brennan Jones and Olivia Sears were named U.S. Presidential Scholar candidates based on academic and artistic achievements, leadership qualities, character and involvement in community and school activities, according to a press release.
To confirm their interest and assist in the selection process, all candidates complete and submit candidacy materials for review, including essays, self-assessments, secondary school reports and transcripts.
A qualified panel of educators selects about 600 semifinalists from the candidates in early April. The White House Commission on Presidential Scholars, a group of up to 32 citizens appointed by the President, then selects the finalists, and the U.S. Department of Education announces the scholars in May.
Up to 161 scholars are named from each year’s senior class. This year, nearly 3.6 million students are expected to graduate from U.S. high schools.
Scholars are honored for their accomplishments during the online National Recognition Program each June and receive the Presidential Scholars Medallion to commemorate their achievement.
Executive Order of the President established the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program in 1964 to recognize some of the nation’s most distinguished graduating seniors for their accomplishments in many areas, such as academic success, leadership and service to school and community, according to the press release.The program expanded in 1979 to recognize students demonstrating scholarship and talent in the visual, creative and performing arts, and expanded again in 2015 to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical fields.
For more information about the U.S.
Presidential Scholars Program, email the U.S. Presidential Scholars Office at [email protected] or call 507-9318345.
