๐️ Executive Order of the President: Celebrating Excellence Through the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program ๐
When an Executive Order of the President leads to a legacy of honoring youth, the result is one of America’s most prestigious recognitions for high school students—the Presidential Scholars Program. This powerful initiative, started under President Lyndon B. Johnson, has transformed over the years to include not just academic excellence but also creative arts and technical skillsets that reflect the evolving talents of the American student body.
๐ The Beginning: A Vision of National Academic Pride
The foundation for this national honor was set in motion by Executive Order 11155, signed on May 23, 1964. The order established the Commission on Presidential Scholars, tasked with recognizing high school seniors across the United States who exhibit exceptional academic performance.
According to the U.S. Department of Education, this commission selects students based on both merit and recommendations from their respective states, giving a platform for excellence from every corner of the country. The order not only promoted recognition but also aimed to elevate academic ambitions nationwide by honoring young scholars who exemplify intelligence, leadership, and service.
๐บ️ Nationwide Recognition: Inclusivity and Excellence Combined
One of the unique features of this Executive Order of the President is its comprehensive reach. Each year, the Commission selects one male and one female Presidential Scholar from:
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Each of the 50 U.S. states
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The District of Columbia
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Puerto Rico
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U.S. Territories including Guam, American Samoa, and the Virgin Islands
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American students living overseas whose parents are U.S. citizens
Additionally, up to 15 scholars at large may be selected based on outstanding academic achievement, regardless of geographical representation. These scholars are awarded the Presidential Scholars Medallion, a distinguished symbol of honor that reflects both excellence and service to the nation.
๐ญ Executive Order 12158: Recognizing Artistic Brilliance ๐จ
In 1979, the scope of the program broadened under President Jimmy Carter, who issued Executive Order 12158. This amendment allowed the Commission to select up to 20 additional Presidential Scholars based on excellence in the visual and performing arts and creative writing.
As per data from the National YoungArts Foundation, which partners with the program, students are now evaluated for their artistic portfolios and performances in addition to their academic records. This shift showcased a national acknowledgment that creative talent is just as vital to a thriving society as academic prowess.
๐ ️ Executive Order 13697: Elevating Career & Technical Education
The next significant development came in 2015 when President Barack Obama signed Executive Order 13697. This further amended the original mandate to include up to 20 Presidential Scholars in Career and Technical Education (CTE) fields.
According to the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education, CTE Scholars are selected for achievements in areas like engineering, healthcare, manufacturing, and technology. This update not only modernized the program but also emphasized the importance of practical, job-ready skills in the American education landscape.
๐ A Medal That Stands for More Than Success
The Presidential Scholars Medallion—presented to each honoree—is more than a decorative token. Designed with presidential approval, it represents national acknowledgment, youth leadership, and potential to shape the future. The medallion also ties the recipient to a legacy of over 60 years of celebrated American excellence.
๐ Lasting Impact: Why This Executive Order Still Matters
Through the lens of this Executive Order of the President, we see how national recognition programs can shape both policy and public perception about what constitutes success in education. From its academic roots to its artistic and technical expansions, the Presidential Scholars Program continues to evolve—just like the nation it represents.
According to the U.S. Department of Education, this program remains one of the most respected acknowledgments of student excellence in the country, inspiring thousands of young Americans to aim higher in their personal and academic lives.
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