WASHINGTON, D.C. — Local students have been named candidates in the 2018 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program. The candidates were selected from nearly 3.6 million students expected to graduate from U.S. high schools this year.

Inclusion in the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, now in its 54th year, is one 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.

A panel of educators will review these submissions and select 600 semifinalists in early April. The Commission on Presidential Scholars, a group of up to 32 eminent citizens appointed by the President, will select the finalists, and the U.S. Department of Education will announce the Scholars in May.

Scholars will be invited to Washington, D.C., for several days in June to receive the Presidential Scholars Medallion at a recognition ceremony and to participate in events and activities.

Area scholars include:

• Benjamin R. Alford, Hanover, Gould Academy;

• Chad Palmer, Manchester, Kents Hill School;

• Brooke M. Smiley, Lewiston, Lewiston High School;

• Jordan A. Smiley, Lewiston, Lewiston High School; and 

• Adam A. Waldie, Fryeburg, Franklin Academy.

For more information about the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, parents and students can call the U.S. Presidential Scholars Office at 507-931-8345 or send an e-mail to PSP@scholarshipamerica.org.