U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona recently announced that Brookings native Owen Burns, a student at Brookings High School in Brookings, has been selected as a 2024 U.S. Presidential Scholar.
Barnes is one of 161 outstanding American high school seniors who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement, artistic talent, expertise, leadership, citizenship, service and contributions to their schools and communities.
“The 161 high school seniors selected for the 60th anniversary of the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program represent the very best in our nation's schools and inspire hope for a bright future for our country,” Cardona said. “On behalf of President Biden, I am pleased to congratulate them on their achievements and encourage these scholars to continue to aim high, inspire others, and take advantage of the opportunity to become leaders.”
The White House Committee on Presidential Scholars selects Scholars annually based on academic achievement, excellence in arts and technical education as determined by essays, school evaluations and transcripts, as well as a demonstrated dedication to community service and leadership.
Of the 3.7 million students expected to graduate from high school this year, more than 5,700 candidates qualified for the 2024 awards, which are determined by outstanding performance on the College Entrance Examination Board's SAT or ACT exams or nominations by chief state boards of education, other partner accrediting organizations and YoungArts, a national foundation for the development of artists.
By Executive Order, the 2024 U.S. Presidential Scholars will consist of two students from each state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and U.S. families living abroad, as well as 15 general selections, 20 fine arts scholars, and 20 career and technical education scholars. Founded in 1964, the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program has recognized more than 8,200 of the nation's most outstanding students. In 1979, the program expanded to recognize students who have demonstrated exceptional talent in the visual, literary, and performing arts. In 2015, the program was expanded again to recognize students who have demonstrated talent and achievement in the career and technical education field. 2024 marks the 60th anniversary of the program.
The Presidential Scholars class of 2024 will be recognized for their outstanding achievements this summer through an online awards program.
