Three Tennessee Students Names U.S. Presidential Scholars

Nashville, TN – Three Tennessee students have been named 2008 U.S. Presidential Scholars, one of the nation’s highest honors for outstanding high school students. Graduating seniors Rachel L. Hawkins of Gallatin High School; Lindsey P. McCloy of Franklin High School and Michael H. Schulson of Baylor School each received the national award based on their overall academic performance. Just 139 students nationwide were named presidential scholars this year.

“Congratulations to these students on the remarkable honor of being named presidential scholars,” Acting Education Commissioner Tim Webb said. “It is a rare distinction to earn national recognition for one’s achievements.”

Scholars are invited to Washington, D.C. June 21-24 for a series of engagements as part of the award program. Each student may choose an inspiring or challenging teacher to travel to Washington to receive a Teacher Recognition Award and participate in recognition events.

“The Presidential Scholars Program gives well-deserved recognition to high-achieving students and the teachers who inspired them to achieve great things,” Assistant Commissioner for Teaching and Learning Susie Bunch said. “Tennessee is fortunate to have many excellent students and educators worthy of such praise. I commend these students on their accomplishment.”

Two students from each state and 15 at-large students were selected as presidential scholars each year. Additionally, 20 students nationwide were named Presidential Scholars in the Arts. The 2008 Presidential Scholars were chosen from among roughly 3,000 candidates who qualified out of more than 3 million graduating U.S. seniors.

For more information, contact Rachel Woods at (615) 253-1960 or Rachel.Woods@state.tn.us.