Seven seniors from Lexington-Richland School District Five have been named candidates in the prestigious 2024 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, marking one of the highest honors for the graduating class of 2024.
The following students have been nominated:
- Damien Dedmond (Chapin High)
- Caroline Huang (Dutch Fork High)
- Ava McCarty (Spring Hill High)
- Darwin Newman-Norlund (Dutch Fork High)
- Aaron Parr (Chapin High)
- Branner Umberger (Spring Hill High)
- Andy Yang (Dutch Fork High)
These candidates were selected from over 4,000 students based on their outstanding academic and artistic achievements, leadership qualities, strong character, and involvement in community and school activities. Inclusion in the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program is a distinguished honor, recognizing the exceptional accomplishments of graduating high school seniors.
Established in 1964 by Executive Order of the President, the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program acknowledges the achievements of some of the nation’s most distinguished seniors. Scholars are chosen for their leadership and service to school and community, exceptional scholarship, artistic talent, and accomplishments in career and technical fields. Each year, up to 161 U.S. Presidential Scholars are selected.
The Commission on Presidential Scholars, consisting of up to 32 eminent citizens appointed by the president, will finalize the selection of finalists. The U.S. Department of Education is expected to announce the semifinalists in April and the scholars in May. The National Recognition Program in June will honor the scholars, who will also receive the Presidential Scholars Medallion.
