April 21, 2020—Congratulations to Shaker Heights High School senior Max Feinleib, who was selected as one of 621 semifinalists nationwide to advance to the final round of the 2020 U.S. Presidential Scholars competition. More than 5,600 students from the country’s 3.6 million graduating seniors were identified as candidates in the program. Max was the only public high school senior in Cuyahoga County and one of 18 students in the state to earn this honor.

The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964, by executive order of the President, to recognize and honor some of our nation's most distinguished graduating high school seniors. In 1979, the program was extended to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the visual, creative and performing arts. In 2015, the program was again extended to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical education fields. Each year, up to 161 students are named as Presidential Scholars, one of the nation's highest honors for high school students.

This month, the White House Commission on Presidential Scholars will review the applications of all semifinalists and select this year’s U.S. Presidential Scholars. One young man and one young woman are chosen from each state, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and from families of U.S. citizens living abroad. In addition, up to 15 students are chosen at large. Learn more about the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.

 

Congratulations, Max!