"You are some of America's most promising students, excelling in academics and as leaders in your community, and you join a distinguished group of Presidential Scholars who have gone on to successful careers in business, science, the arts, and public service." — President George W. Bush

The 2008 Presidential Scholars, 139 graduating high school seniors selected for their academic success, artistic excellence, community service, and leadership, were honored in Washington, D.C., at a series of events from June 21-24. Selected by the Commission on Presidential Scholars appointed by President Bush, the scholars include one young man and one young woman from each state, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, and from families of U.S. citizens living abroad, as well as 15 chosen at-large and 20 Presidential Scholars in the Arts.

The 2008 Presidential Scholars visited the White House for a photo with President Bush. GO >
U.S. Deputy Secretary of Education Ray Simon congratulated Jacinth Greywoode of Alabama at the Presidential Scholars Medallion Ceremony at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. GO >
At the Teacher Recognition Dinner at the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium, the 2008 Presidential Scholars honored the teachers who had the most impact on their academic and artistic careers. GO >
In a community service activity to benefit the So Others Might Eat (SOME) charitable organization, Scholars boxed and donated thousands of goods for the homeless in Washington, D.C. Here, Scholars help Don Dixon, Dining Room and Volunteer Coordinator for SOME, transport the assembled packages. GO >
At the opening of a month-long special exhibition showcasing Scholars in the visual and literary arts at the National Portrait Gallery, Presidential Scholar in the Arts Jasmine S. Hu of California read from her work. GO >
On stage at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts' Concert Hall, Presidential Scholar in the Arts Kacey R. Hauk of Wisconsin (far right) led dancers in a work she choreographed. GO >
Presidential Scholar in the Arts Richard J. Saunders of Connecticut sang George and Ira Gershwin's "Our Love is Here to Stay" on stage at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts' Concert Hall. GO >

Learn more about the Presidential Scholars Program.