Greta '22 honored as 2022 US Presidential Scholar

The United States Department of Education announced its 2022 U.S. Presidential Scholars on Thursday, May 12. Greta Li '22 was among the 161 high school seniors recognized for their accomplishments in academics, the arts, and career and technical education fields. 

"Today, I join President Biden to celebrate a class of scholars whose pursuit of knowledge, generosity of spirit, and exceptional talents bring our nation tremendous pride. Throughout one of the most trying periods in our nation's history and amid our recovery from the pandemic, our students have once again demonstrated their strength and that they have so much to contribute to our country. Thanks to them, I know America's future is bright," U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona shared in a press release. 

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. 

Of the 3.7 million students expected to graduate from high school this year, more than 5,000 candidates for the 2022 awards. From that pool of candidates, one young man and one young woman are selected from each state, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, and U.S. families living abroad. Additionally, 15 scholars are selected at-large along with 20 scholars in the arts and 20 in career and technical education. Greta is one of three scholars selected from Tennessee.

"I'm absolutely honored," Greta shared. "And I'd also like to thank the people who made it all possible. My teachers over the years have gone above and beyond in mentoring and advocating for me. My friends and family have always encouraged me to reach for the unknown beyond my current boundaries. This recognition is as much for them as it is for me." 

Congratulations to Greta on this esteemed accomplishment. The 2022 Presidential Scholars will be recognized for their outstanding achievement this summer with an online recognition program. Click here to view a complete list of students honored.