Dr. Carey Wright State Superintendent | Maryland Department Of Education
Kelly D. Liu, a graduate of Marriotts Ridge High School in Howard County, and Luc Beck, a Bethesda resident who attended Sidwell Friends School, have been named U.S. Presidential Scholars by the U.S. Department of Education. Liu is currently enrolled at Yale University, while Beck attends the University of Pennsylvania.
The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program recognizes high school students across the country for their achievements in academics, arts, and career and technical education. Each year, 161 seniors are selected for this honor by the White House Commission on Presidential Scholars.
Dr. Carey M. Wright, State Superintendent of Schools, commented on the achievement: “Kelly and Luc exemplify the academic excellence, leadership, and service that define Maryland’s future,” said Dr. Carey M. Wright. “Their recognition as U.S. Presidential Scholars is a testament to their hard work, the dedication of Maryland’s educators, and the support of families and communities. We are proud to celebrate their achievements and look forward to what the future holds for both of them.”
This year, eleven students from Maryland public and private schools were semifinalists in the program.
The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964 to honor distinguished graduating high school seniors nationwide. In 1979 it expanded to include students with exceptional talent in visual, creative, or performing arts; further expansion occurred in 2015 to recognize those excelling in career and technical education fields.
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