Minnesota State Wire

Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan May 12, 2023, congratulated two Minnesota students who were named U.S. Presidential Scholars by the U.S. Department of Education. Stavya Arora from Maple Grove (Maple Grove Senior High School) and Matthew Chen from Maple Grove (Wayzata High School) were recognized as part of the 59th class of U.S. Presidential Scholars. Scholars are honored for their demonstration of leadership, scholarship, contribution to school and community, and outstanding accomplishments in the arts, sciences, career and technical education, and other fields of interest.

“Congratulations to our two outstanding U.S. Presidential Scholars, Stavya and Matthew, for this incredible achievement,” said Governor Walz. “Through challenges, you both have shown grit, determination, and leadership. Thank you for leading by example - Minnesota is so proud of you.”

“Thank you, Stavya and Matthew, for setting examples of what fantastic leadership, passion for learning, and dedication to your community looks like,” said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. “With outstanding students like Stavya and Matthew leading the way, I know Minnesota’s future is so bright.”

“Congratulations to Stavya and Matthew on this outstanding accomplishment,” said Education Commissioner Willie Jett. “Your work and your passion for academics and your dedication to your community have brought you to this honor. You are both an inspiration to your fellow students, and we are extremely proud of you.”

The White House Commission on Presidential Scholars selects scholars annually based on their academic success, artistic and technical excellence, essays, school evaluations and transcripts, as well as a demonstrated commitment to community service and leadership.

Created in 1964, the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program has honored over 8,000 of the nation’s top-performing students. The program was expanded in 1979 to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the visual, literary, and performing arts. In 2015, the program was again extended to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical education fields.

The Presidential Scholars Class of 2023 will be recognized for their outstanding achievement this summer with an online recognition program.

To learn more about the program, visit the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program webpage of the U.S. Department of Education website.

Original source can be found here.