Two School District Five students named semifinalists in U.S. Presidential Scholars Program
May 26, 2026
Two Lexington-Richland School District Five seniors have been named as semifinalists in the 2026 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.
Hunter Taylor (Dutch Fork High) and Elizabeth Yong (Chapin High) were selected from 6,500 candidates expected to graduate from U.S. high schools in 2026.
Inclusion in the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, now in its 62nd year, is one of the highest honors bestowed upon graduating high school seniors. Scholars are selected on the basis of their accomplishments in many areas- academics and artistic success, accomplishment in career and technical fields, leadership, strong character and involvement in school and the community.
The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964 by Executive Order of the President to recognize some of our nation’s most distinguished graduating seniors for their accomplishments in academics, leadership, and service to school and community. It was expanded in 1979 to recognize students demonstrating exceptional scholarship and talent in the visual, creative, and performing arts. In 2015, the program was expanded once again to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical fields. Annually, up to 161 U.S. Presidential Scholars are chosen from among that year’s senior class, representing excellence in education and the promise of greatness in America’s youth. Each year Scholars are presented with a Presidential Scholars Medallion.
A distinguished panel of educators have reviewed these submissions and selected 627 semifinalists. In the coming months, the final selection of the high school seniors who will be named the 2026 U.S. Presidential Scholars, and the names of those students will be announced by U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon.
For more information about the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, please visit: https://www.ed.gov/grants-and-programs/recognition-programs/us-presidential-scholars-program.
