MONROE, CT — Masuk High School Seniors Emma Hannum and Evan Boyle have both been selected as candidates for the 2025 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program. Of the 3.6 million high school candidates for this prestigious award, they are among the just over 5,000 who have qualified for the program.
Inclusion in the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program is one of the highest honors bestowed upon
graduating high school seniors. Scholars are selected on the basis of superior academic and artistic achievements, leadership qualities, strong character and involvement in community and school activities.
Emma Hannum joined Masuk at the start of her sophomore year and quickly became a valued member of the school community. She has become a valued member of Sinfonietta, Tri-M (Music Honor Society) and Masuk’s Theater Club.
Academically, Hannum is a dedicated and hardworking student who takes great pride in her education. Her commitment to excellence has earned her membership in Masuk’s Chapter of the National Honor Society, Science and Mathematics (Mu Alpha Theta) Honor Societies, and she is currently ranked in the top 12-percent of her class.
Throughout her educational journey, Hannum has faced some ongoing challenges associated with her Turrets Syndrome diagnosis, handling them with grace and resilience. Her school counselor, Tricia Pagel, describes Hannum as a determined individual whose experiences have fostered a profound sense of empathy. This understanding allows her to connect with peers and younger students in a nurturing and supportive way.
Beyond her academic achievements, Hannum has also applied her skills and compassion to assist her mother, including training her dog to serve as a service animal. Looking ahead, she is excited to pursue a career in nursing, where her dedication, empathy and perseverance will undoubtedly make a meaningful impact.
Evan Boyle is an exceptional student and leader at Masuk. He serves as a Class Officer and is actively involved in numerous honor societies, including Masuk’s Chapter of the National Honor Society, the World Language, International Robotics and Mathematics (Mu Alpha Theta) Honor Societies. As the Science Honor Society Chapter President, Boyle demonstrates his passion for and commitment to academic excellence.
Boyle’s hard work and dedication have earned him recognition as an Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction and a National Merit Commended Scholar for his outstanding performance on the PSAT.
Beyond his academic achievements, Boyle excels as a student-athlete and a Varsity Tennis player, showcasing his well-rounded abilities and determination both on and off the court.
Looking ahead, Boyle is excited to pursue college next year, with aspirations to be at the forefront of artificial intelligence and exploring cutting-edge technologies. His drive, curiosity, and leadership will undoubtedly lead him to make a meaningful impact in the ever-evolving field of technology.
The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program
The 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. A distinguished panel of educators will review these submissions and select approximately 600 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.
U.S. Presidential Scholars are honored for their accomplishments during the online National Recognition Program each June. To commemorate their achievement, the Scholars are awarded the Presidential Scholars Medallion.
A complete list of candidates will be available on the Program’s web page. Semifinalists will be announced in mid-April and Scholars in May.
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