WEST CHESTER, PA — West Chester East High School senior Saanvi Bhatia has been named a semifinalist in the prestigious 2023 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program. Among over 5,000 anticipated U.S. high school graduates, Bhatia is one of only 628 semifinalists selected for the honor in the program’s 59th year.
The program recognizes exceptional graduating seniors for academic and artistic success, career and technical accomplishments, leadership qualities, and strong character, as well as community involvement. Established in 1964 by Executive Order, the program acknowledges some of America’s most distinguished graduating student leaders.
“Saanvi Bhatia has undoubtedly left her mark on East High School and our community,” said Stephen Brown, East High School Principal. “During her time at East, she’s been a National Merit Finalist, spent two years coordinating our House of Hope Concert, served as a coach and leadership coordinator for the Charles A. Melton Arts and Education Center, worked on the WCASD comprehensive planning committee, and was the 2023 class secretary.”
Expanded in 1979, the Presidential Scholars Program recognized students showcasing outstanding talent and scholarship in the visual, creative, and performing arts. Later, in 2015, the program was broadened to include students who excelled in vocational and technical fields. Every year, up to 161 exceptional high school seniors in the U.S. are selected to become Presidential Scholars, exemplifying academic excellence, civic leadership, and the potential of the next generation. As a reward for their remarkable achievements, these scholars are granted the prestigious Presidential Scholars Medallion.
“Earning a spot as a Presidential Scholars semifinalist exemplifies who Saanvi is as a young lady. We are very proud of her and look forward to her continued successes in college next year!” added Brown.
Approximately 628 semifinalists have been selected by a distinguished panel of educators to proceed to the next round. Finalists will be selected by the Commission on Presidential Scholars, comprised of up to 32 eminent citizens appointed by the President, and the Scholars will be announced by the U.S. Department of Education in May. National Recognition Program in June celebrates the accomplishments of the distinguished U.S. Presidential Scholars.
“I am so grateful for this honor!” said Saanvi Bhatia. “I want to thank all the teachers, family, friends, and everyone else who have helped me get to where I am now. I sincerely appreciate all of you,” she added.
Ms. Bhatia is the child of Sumedha Malhotra Bhatia and Neeraj Bhatia, and she plans to attend Stanford University following graduation this June. For more information about the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, parents and students can email the U.S. Presidential Scholars Office at PSP@scholarshipamerica.org.
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