Senior Named U.S. Presidential Scholars Program Candidate

Candidates were selected from nearly 3.6 million students expected to graduate from U.S. high schools in 2026. Inclusion in the program is among the nation’s highest honors for graduating seniors.

Scholars are chosen based on academic achievement, artistic excellence, leadership, strong character and involvement in school and community activities. At Upper St. Clair, Prachi serves as president of the Speech and Debate team and the Girls in Politics Club, and is a member of the National Honor Society. In addition, she was instrumental in the coordination of the school’s Global Education Week. She was recently named a National Merit Finalist by the College Board and an Academic All American by the National Speech & Debate Association.

Prachi, who expressed pride at being selected as a U.S. Presidential Scholars Program candidate, credits her family for laying the foundation for her success.

“My parents, especially my mom, have contributed the most to my success, by creating a really strong foundation from when I was young and making it clear that they were always there to support me,” she said. “I balance academics with other commitments with a lot of help from my parents, who help me prioritize and put a lot of effort into supporting the activities I am a part of.”

Following high school graduation in June, Prachi will attend the University of Chicago this fall, where she plans to double major in public policy and economics.

Established in 1964 by executive order of the president, the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was created to recognize the nation’s most distinguished graduating seniors for accomplishments in academic success, leadership and service. It was expanded in 1979 to honor students demonstrating exceptional scholarship and talent in the visual, creative and performing arts, and again in 2015 to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical education fields.

Each year, up to 161 students are selected as U.S. Presidential Scholars from the nation’s high school seniors. A panel of educators will review submissions and select approximately 600 semifinalists this spring. The Commission on Presidential Scholars will choose the finalists, and the U.S. Department of Education will announce the 2026 scholars this summer. Recipients of the honor are awarded the Presidential Scholars Medallion in recognition of their achievement.