Main Line Student Named U.S. Presidential Scholar

BRYN MAWR, PA — A local student has earned one of the highest honor a high schooler can get by being named a 2023 U.S. Presidential Scholar.

The three Pennsylvania students were among 161 high school seniors from across the nation to receive recognition by the U.S. Department of Education for their accomplishments in academics, the arts, and career and technical education fields.

Among those three Pennsylvania students is Harriton High School senior Hannah Gao.

"I am delighted to recognize Pennsylvania’s exceptional 2023 U.S. Presidential Scholars for being awarded one of the nation’s highest academic honors," said Acting Secretary of Education Dr. Khalid N. Mumin. "These students worked extremely hard, engaged in community service, and displayed outstanding leadership skills, and I am so proud to have them represent the Commonwealth."

The White House Commission on Presidential Scholars selects students annually based on their academic success, artistic and technical excellence, essays, school evaluations and transcripts, as well as evidence of community service, leadership, and demonstrated commitment to high ideals.

Of the 3.6 million students expected to graduate from high school this year, more than 6,000 candidates qualified for the 2023 awards determined by outstanding performance on the College Board SAT or ACT exams or through nominations made by Chief State School Officers, other partner recognition organizations, and the National YoungArts Foundation’s nationwide YoungArts™ program.

“U.S. Presidential Scholars have always represented the future of our country and the bright promise it holds. I want each of these remarkable students to know: your passion and intellect, pursuit of excellence, and spirit of service are exactly what our country needs," U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona said. "On behalf of President Biden, I am delighted to join your family, friends, and communities in celebrating your accomplishments. Aim high, share your talents, and continue embracing opportunities to lead as your exciting future unfolds."

Created in 1964, the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program has honored over 8,000 of the nation’s top-performing students.

The program was expanded in 1979 to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the visual, literary, and performing arts.

In 2015, the program was again extended to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical education fields.

As directed by Presidential Executive Order, the 2023 U.S. Presidential Scholars are comprised of one young man and one young woman from each state, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, and U.S. families living abroad, as well as 15 chosen at-large, 20 Scholars in the arts and 20 Scholars in career and technical education.