Colby Hutson
CULLMAN – Cullman High School senior Colby Hutson has been named one of 630 semifinalists in the 2018 US Presidential Scholars Program. The semifinalists were selected from nearly 5,300 candidates expected to graduate from US high schools in the year 2018.
Inclusion in the US Presidential Scholars Program, now in its 54th year, is on the of the highest honors bestowed upon graduating high school seniors. Scholars are selected on the basis of superior academic and artistic achievements, leadership qualities, strong character and involvement in community and school activities.
The US Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964, by executive order of the President, to recognize and honor some of our nation's most distinguished graduating high school seniors. In 1979, the program was extended to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the visual, creative and performing arts. In 2015, the program was again extended to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical education fields. Each year, up to 161 students are named as Presidential Scholars, one of the nation's highest honors for high school students. All scholars are invited to Washington, D.C. in June for the National Recognition Program, featuring various events and enrichment activities and culminating in the presentation of the Presidential Scholar Medallion during a White House-sponsored ceremony.
A distinguished panel of educators have reviewed these submissions and selected 630 semifinalists. The Commission on Presidential Scholars, a group of up to 32 eminent citizens appointed by the President, will select the finalists, and the US Department of Education will announce the Scholars in May.
