COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – Coldwater High School senior Eric Rucker been named one of 625 semifinalists in the 2024 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program. The semifinalists were selected from over 6,000 candidates expected to graduate from U.S. high schools in the year 2024.
Inclusion in the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, now in its 60th 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.
Eric has been active in the community outside of school for many years through the Branch County Community Foundation’s Youth Advisory Council, among other organizations. Eric’s a well-rounded young man who is passionate about academics, sports, and the arts.
He says he’s currently most interested in the fields of physics, math, and chemistry, and wants to go to college in order to pursue those interests. Part of what appeals to him about these fields he says is the potential to discover new things through research, and because of that, intends to go further than only a bachelor’s degree.
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 have reviewed these submissions and selected 625 semifinalists. The Commission on Presidential Scholars, a group of up to 32 people appointed by the President, will select the finalists and the U.S. Department of Education announces the Scholars in May.
The Presidential Scholars Class of 2024 will be recognized for their outstanding achievement in late June with an online National Recognition Program.
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