U.S. Secretary of Education Dr. Miguel Cardona recently announced the 57th class of U.S. Presidential Scholars, recognizing 161 high school seniors for their accomplishments in academics, the arts, and career and technical education fields.
“The 2021 Presidential Scholars represent extraordinary achievements for our extraordinary times,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “I am delighted to join President Biden in saluting these outstanding young people for their achievements, service, character and continued pursuit of excellence. Their examples make me proud and hopeful about the future. Honoring them can remind us all of the great potential in each new generation and renew our commitment to helping them achieve their dreams.”
The White House Commission on Presidential Scholars selects scholars annually based on their academic success, artistic and technical excellence, essays, school evaluations and transcripts, as well as evidence of community service, leadership and demonstrated commitment to high ideals.
Of the 3.6 million students expected to graduate from high school this year, more than 6,000 candidates qualified for the 2021 awards determined by outstanding performance on the College Board SAT or ACT exams or through nominations made by Chief State School Officers, other partner recognition organizations and the National YoungArts Foundation’s nationwide YoungArts™ program.
The U.S. Department of Education announced that three high school students in metro Phoenix have been named 2021 Presidential Scholars:
Viraj Mehta, Scottsdale – BASIS Scottsdale Charter
Suhani Patel, Peoria – Mountain Ridge High School
Danielle Sherman, Scottsdale – Desert Mountain High School
At least one male and one female student from each state, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico made the 2021 list.
Additionally, there are 15 at-large scholars nationwide, 20 scholars in the arts and 20 scholars in career and technical education.
The class of 2021 will be recognized for their achievement this summer.
