Celebrating Greenwich's Brightest: 18 Students Named Candidates for U.S. Presidential Scholars Program

Feb 6

Greenwich is home to some of the brightest young minds in the country, and this year, 18 local high school seniors have been named candidates for the prestigious U.S. Presidential Scholars Program. This honor, established to recognize outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and community contributions, places these students among the nation's most distinguished graduating seniors.

The U.S. Department of Education announced that these students are part of a select group of 4,000 candidates nationwide. Eligibility is determined based on exceptional SAT or ACT scores or through nomination. Unlike traditional scholarship programs, students cannot apply for this distinction; they must be invited.

Of the 4,000 candidates, around 650 will advance to the semifinalist stage, and from that group, the Commission on Presidential Scholars will select 161 students as U.S. Presidential Scholars. The final honorees will receive their medallions in June, marking a significant achievement in their academic journeys.

Meet Greenwich's U.S. Presidential Scholar Candidates

These outstanding students represent a range of local schools and demonstrate excellence in academics, leadership, and service:

Greenwich High School

Adam Allegro
Allison C. Bauer
Justin R. Bernstein
Thomas G. Erensen
Zara I. Haque
Audrey R. Ku
Ashley T. Malkin
Brandon E. Nadel
Naomi L. Rosell
Natasha A. Samant
Robert L. Vine
Zerach Zou

Brunswick School

Gabriel Trahanas

Greenwich Country Day School

Imran Iftikar
Abraham S. Milgram

Sacred Heart Greenwich

Lily S. Carroll

Rye Country Day School Upper School

Leah C. Steyn

Deerfield Academy

Sophie Simonds

A Legacy of Excellence

“For more than 60 years, this unique federal program has honored over 8,000 U.S. Presidential Scholars who have demonstrated leadership, scholarship, and contribution to school and community,” the U.S. Department of Education stated in a press release.

Greenwich has a long-standing tradition of academic excellence, and these students exemplify the dedication, hard work, and perseverance that make our community proud. Their achievements are a testament to the support of their families, educators, and schools, which have helped nurture their talents and ambitions.

What’s Next?

The semifinalists will be announced in the coming months, with the final selection of 161 Presidential Scholars taking place in April. As these candidates continue through the selection process, we extend our congratulations and best wishes to each of them.

Stay tuned for updates as we follow the journey of these exceptional Greenwich students on their path to becoming U.S. Presidential Scholars!

Mallory Canavan