2 Pope John Paul Students Chosen as Presidential Scholar Candidates

ROYERSFORD, PA -- Two Pope John Paul II students are among the more than 100 Pennsylvania students selected as candidates for the 2017 Presidential Scholars honor.

Claire E. Cross of Pearl River and Benjamin J. Ferris of Pottstown are among more than 4,000 candidates nationwide selected for the honor. They were chosen based on superior academic and artistic achievements, leadership qualities, strong character and involvement in community and school activities.

The group will be whittled down to 800 semi-finalists in April. No more than 161 Presidential Scholars will be chosen in May.

They will be honored in Washington, D.C., with medals at a recognition ceremony.

-- Patch editor Bea Karnes contributed to this story. Photo courtesy of the U.S. Department of Education.