A r c h i v e d I n f o r m a t i o n

   FOR RELEASE                             Contact:  David W. Thomas    June 19, 1995                                      (202) 401-1579

1995 Presidential Scholars Announced

President Clinton and Secretary of Education Richard W. Riley today designated the 32nd class of Presidential Scholars -- 141 high school seniors recognized for their achievements in academics or the arts.

They will visit Washington June 21-25 for a week of activities, including a White House ceremony on June 21 at 11:30 a.m., where each student will receive a Presidential Scholar Medallion.

"As communities across the nation work to make their schools better, it is important to honor these young people who represent world-class achievement," Riley said. "As public attention is frequently drawn to athletes and film stars, it is vital that we recognize those Americans who distinguish themselves as students."

A 32-member commission on Presidential Scholars makes the final selection of scholars from among 2.5 million graduating high school seniors. The commission is appointed by the president and is comprised of eminent private citizens.

The 1995 scholars were selected on the basis of broad academic achievement, including SAT or ACT scores, essays, school recommendations and transcripts, leadership, character and commitment to high ideals. Twenty scholars also are being recognized for their accomplishments in visual or performing arts, or creative writing.

Arts scholars are selected by the commission from students who participate in the Arts Recognition and Talent Search, conducted by the National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts.

The 141 Presidential Scholars include one young man and one young woman from each state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and from U.S. families living abroad; 15 at-large and 20 scholars in the arts.

Since 1983, each Presidential Scholar has been asked to name the teacher who has had the greatest impact on his or her academic or artistic accomplishments. These educators also are invited to Washington to receive a certificate of excellence from the Education Department and to participate in the anticipated White House ceremony.

As in previous years, the recognition exercises are supported financially by the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation, the General Motors Corp., and the Saturn Corp.