2 Wilton Students Selected As 2026 U.S. Presidential Scholar Candidates

WILTON, CT — Two students from Wilton have been selected as candidates for the 2026 United States Presidential Scholars Program.

Established in 1964 by Executive Order of the President, the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program recognizes and honors some of the nation’s most distinguished graduating high school seniors.

Being named a U.S. Presidential Scholar is one of the nation’s highest honors for high school students.

Both candidates are students at Wilton High School:

• Lilah G. Gettler
• Keya V. Patel

Overall, there are 183 candidates from the state of Connecticut.

Application is by invitation only, so students may not apply individually to the program, nor may their schools nominate them, according to the U.S. Department of Education.

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.

Approximately 650 candidates are named semifinalists and forwarded to the Commission on Presidential Scholars for review.

The Commission then reviews the applications of all semifinalists and selects up to 161 U.S Presidential Scholars each year.

U.S Presidential Scholars are awarded the U.S. Presidential Scholars medallion, usually in June.

More information on the program, including eligibility requirements and a list of all candidates, can be found here.