Two high school seniors from Southaven, Noah Curtis Lee and Iris Jiani Xue, have been honored as 2024 U.S. Presidential Scholars. They attend the Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science in Columbus.
U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona recently revealed the 161 seniors chosen for their academic, artistic, and technical education achievements as part of the prestigious program’s 60th anniversary. These scholars, epitomizing excellence in the nation’s schools, were commended for their potential to shape a promising future.
The White House Commission on Presidential Scholars annually selects these students based on various criteria, including academic prowess, artistic excellence, technical skills, community service, and leadership qualities. From over 5,700 candidates, drawn from a pool of 3.7 million high school graduates this year, the scholars distinguished themselves through exceptional performance on standardized tests or nominations.
As mandated by Presidential Executive Order, the 2024 U.S. Presidential Scholars comprise two students from each state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. families residing abroad, along with additional selections in various categories. Since its inception in 1964, the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program has recognized over 8,200 outstanding students, expanding over the years to include talents in arts and technical education. This year’s scholars will be honored through an online recognition program during the summer.
“The 161 high school seniors selected for the 60th anniversary of the U.S. Presidential Scholars represent the best of our nation’s schools and inspire hope in the bright future of this country,” Cardona said. “On behalf of President Biden, I am delighted to celebrate their accomplishments, and encourage these scholars to continue to aim high, lift up others, and embrace opportunities to lead.”
The Presidential Scholars Class of 2024 will be recognized for their outstanding achievement this summer with an online recognition program. A complete list of 2024 U.S. Presidential Scholars is available at ed.gov/psp.
