1984 Presidential scholars

American Education, June, 1984

This year is the 20th anniversary of the Presidential Scholars Program, established by an Executive Order of the President. The Presidential Scholar honor is the Nation's highest distinction bestowed upon exceptional high school seniors. Each Scholar receives a medallion at a White House ceremony in June and takes part in a week of seminars, lectures, and other activities. In addition, each receives $1,000 from the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation, a private philanthropic organization.

The winners include one young man and one young woman from each State, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and from among U.S. citizens living aboard. Fifteen students are chosen at large, and 20 who exhibit exceptional artistic talent. Academic scholars are selected on the basis of test scores, grades, essays, and leadership. The arts scholars are selected in cooperation with the National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts, which oversees the Arts Recognition and Talent Search (ARTS) program for high school students.

Final selection of the Scholars is made by the Commission on Presidential Scholars, a group of 51 private citizens appointed by the President.