2 Lakewood Students Nominated for Prestigious US Presidential Scholars Program

LAKEWOOD, OH - Two Lakewood High School seniors have been nominated for the US Presidential Scholars Program. The students, Ian Bell and Rachel Daso, are two of 20 Ohio students selected for the honor.

The US Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964 to recognize and honor the nation's most distinguished graduating seniors. Up to 161 students are annually named Presidential Scholars. This is the third straight year that a Lakewood High student has been nominated for recognition on the list.

Both Bell and Daso are National Merit Semifinalists and have extensive extracurricular achievements. They are both at the top of their class, hold staggering GPAs, and handle a schedule packed with advanced and AP classes.

Bell sports a GPA of 4.53. His list of extracurriculars is impressive and intimidating. He is lead clarinet in the Cleveland Youth Wind Symphony and is involved in the Lakewood High music program. He is co-captain of the Academic Challenge team, which has competed in the national championship tournament for four straight years. He is co-president of the Model UN Club, a student liaison for the Lakewood Rangers Foundation, and a youth ambassador for ASIA Inc., a nonprofit that helps support Lakewood's refugee population.

Daso is equally as impressive and intimidating. Her GPA is a shiny 4.55. She is co-president of the Model UN Club. She is a member of the National Honor Society. She is a member of the Contemporary Youth Orchestra, based out of Cleveland State University, and is also heavily involved in Lakewood High's music program. She has performed in numerous Barnstormers Drama Club productions and is a member of Watters Science Seminar. She also teaches private trumpet lessons and serves at her church.

“Ian and Rachel our two of our best and brightest at Lakewood High and I am proud to have them represent us for this prestigious honor,” said Principal Keith Ahearn.

Photo from Lakewood Schools