Seniors named Presidential Scholar candidates
![2025 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program candidates Jamie Barrett and Yuhong Shi]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1739200427/uscsdk12paus/zinysgaz1f4osl5xrvxx/PresScholars2025.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1739200427/uscsdk12paus/zinysgaz1f4osl5xrvxx/PresScholars2025.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1739200427/uscsdk12paus/zinysgaz1f4osl5xrvxx/PresScholars2025.png","width":800}])
Two Upper St. Clair High School seniors were recently named candidates in the 2025 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education.
Jamie Barrett and Yuhong Shi were selected for their outstanding performance on the SAT or ACT exam. They are among 110 Pennsylvania students to earn this honor.
In addition to being selected as U.S. Presidential Scholar candidates, both students have previously been recognized for their academic achievements. Jamie was named a Semifinalist and Yuhong earned Commended status in the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program. Both are members of the National Honor Society and were named AP Scholars with Distinction for their high performance in Advanced Placement coursework. Beyond the classroom, Jamie serves as captain of the Model UN and USC Rowing teams. Yuhong is a member of the school’s cross country team.
The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964, by executive order of the President.
“It recognizes the accomplishments of some of our nation’s most distinguished graduating seniors,” Simone Olson, executive director of the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, said. “Scholars are chosen for leadership and service to school and community and they demonstrate exceptional scholarship; visual, creative and performing arts talent; and accomplishment in career and technical fields.”
Application for the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program is by invitation only. To be considered further, candidates must submit candidacy materials, including essays, self-assessments, secondary school reports, and transcripts. Candidates are evaluated on their academic achievement, personal characteristics, leadership and service activities, and an analysis of their essay.
Approximately 600 semifinalists will be named by an independent, national committee of educators. Up to 161 U.S. Presidential Scholars will be announced in early May and recognized during the National Recognition Program in June. To commemorate their achievement, the Scholars are awarded the Presidential Scholars Medallion.
Since 1964, this unique federal program has honored more than 8,000 U.S. Presidential Scholars, who have demonstrated scholarship, leadership, artistic excellence and selfless service to others. For more information about the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program:
- USCHS