Rocky Hill School Senior Named Candidate in U.S. Presidential Scholars Program

SOUTH KINGSTOWN, RI—Hunter Gallant, of South Kingstown, belongs to a select group. The son of Justin and Eva Gallant, he is one of 4,000 students to be named a candidate in the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.

"Inclusion in the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, now in its 53rd year, is one of the highest honors bestowed upon graduating high school seniors," according to the Rocky Hill School in East Greenwich where Hunter is a senior. "Scholars are selected on the basis of superior academic and artistic achievements, leadership qualities, strong character and involvement in community and school activities."

Nearly 3.5 million students, expected to graduate from high school this year, were eligible for the program. Hunter, an accomplished musician, athlete, and school leader, was selected.

“The entire Rocky Hill School community celebrates this recognition of one of our exceptional members of the Class of 2017,”said Dr. James Tracy, Head of School. “Hunter, who came to Rocky Hill School because he wanted to be challenged academically, has embraced every opportunity presented to him and has flourished during his years here. He is an accomplished musician, athlete, school leader, and academic who passionately values his education. We are proud to have participated in Hunter’s journey of self-discovery as he pursued his many passions and interests with the support of his faculty and family.”

According to the press release, the "U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964 by Executive Order of the President to recognize some of our nation’s most distinguished graduating seniors for their accomplishments in many areas: academic success, leadership, and service to school and community. It was expanded in 1979 to recognize students demonstrating exceptional scholarship and talent in the visual, creative, and performing arts. In 2015, the program was expanded once again to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical fields. Annually, up to 161 U.S. Presidential Scholars are chosen from among that year’s senior class, representing excellence in education and the promise of greatness in America’s youth. All Scholars are invited to Washington, DC in June for the National Recognition Program, featuring various events and enrichment activities and culminating in the presentation of the Presidential Scholars Medallion during a White House-sponsored ceremony.

"A distinguished panel of educators will review these submissions and select 800 semifinalists in early April. The Commission on Presidential Scholars, a group of up to 32 eminent citizens appointed by the President, will select the finalists, and the U.S. Department of Education will announce the Scholars in May.

"Scholars will be invited to Washington, DC, for several days in June to receive the Presidential Scholars Medallion at a recognition ceremony and to participate in events and activities."

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