U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan announced this week the selection of Robert Chen ’13 as a 2013 U.S. Presidential Scholar.
U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan announced this week the selection of Robert Chen ’13 as a 2013 U.S. Presidential Scholar.
Robert is one of 141 outstanding American high school seniors who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement, artistic excellence, leadership, citizenship, service, and contribution to school and community.
“Robert exemplifies our mission as his natural curiosity, and strong efforts, have led him to a life of learning and reflection,” said Head of School Andrew Watson. “He joins the other Presidential Scholars from the Academy over the years, and the rest of our graduates, to serve country and community with wisdom, conviction, and compassion.”
Of the three million students expected to graduate from high school this year, more than 3,800 qualified for the 2013 awards determined by outstanding performance on the SAT and ACT exams, and through nominations made by Chief State School Officers or the National YoungArts Foundation.
The 2013 Scholars comprise one male and one female from each state, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, and from U.S. families living abroad, as well as fifteen chosen at-large and 20 Presidential Scholars in the Arts.
Created in 1964, the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program has honored more than 6,000 of the nation’s top-performing students, and in 1979 was expanded to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the visual, literary, and performing arts.
Since 1983, each Scholar has been offered the opportunity to name his or her most influential teacher who is honored with a personal letter from the Secretary of Education. Robert chose Academy history faculty member George Ovitt for the honor.
Earlier this year Robert and Geelon So ’13 were named Semifinalists in this year’s program. See related story here.
Congratulations Robert, Geelon, and Mr. Ovitt!
