Four St. John’s School Semifinalists Named for 2023 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program

Four St. John’s high school seniors have been named semifinalists in the 2023 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program. This year, 628 semifinalists were selected from over 5,000 candidates expected to graduate from U.S. high schools in the year 2023.

St. John’s School would like to congratulate the following seniors for their academic achievement:

  • Elizabeth Chua
  • Jin Chung
  • Mark Wang
  • Justine Xu

Inclusion in the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, now in its 59th 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.

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 628 semifinalists. The Commission on Presidential Scholars, a group of up to 32 eminent citizens appointed by the President, will select the finalists, and the U.S. Department of Education will announce the Scholars in May.

Left to right: Ms. Patricia Bennett, Head of School, Mark Wang, Justine Xu, Elizabeth Chua, Jin Chung, Mr. Bob Kelley, Assistant Head of School
Left to Right: Mark Wang, Justine Xu, Elizabeth Chua, Jin Chung

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