Cerini a Candidate for U.S. Presidential Scholar
Adam Cerini is a candidate for the United States Presidential Scholar program. The Huntington High School senior is one of the top members of the Class of 2011 and has a long list of academic achievements to his credit. He might be able to add another one soon.
The U.S. Presidential Scholars program dates to 1964 when it was created to recognize and honor some of the America's top graduating seniors. The program was expanded in 1979 to recognize those "who demonstrate exceptional scholarship and talent in the visual, creative and performing arts," wrote Simone M. Olson, acting executive director of the program in a letter to Huntington Superintendent John J. Finello.
Mr. Cerini, a bright, well-spoken and personable young man, was asked to submit a variety of application materials including a transcript, secondary school reports, essay and self-assessment. "We're thrilled that Adam is a candidate for such a prestigious honor," Mr. Finello said.
The pool of candidates will eventually be narrowed down to 500 semi-finalists from which 141 U.S. Presidential Scholars will be named. "Scholars are chosen on the basis of their accomplishments in many areas – academic and artistic success, leadership and involvement in school and the community – and represent excellence in education and the promise of greatness in America's youth," according to Ms. Olson.
Scholars are invited to Washington, DC in June for the program's National Recognition Weekend, which includes a slate of activities and events. Honorees are presented with the Presidential Scholars medallion during a ceremony sponsored by the White House.
The program is coordinated for the United States Department of Education by the Commission on Presidential Scholars.