Presidential Scholar is one of the nation’s highest honors for high school students
The U.S. Department of Education announced the 61st class of U.S. Presidential Scholars, recognizing 161 of the nation’s most exceptional high school seniors for their accomplishments in academics, the arts, and career and technical education fields. Among those honored are two outstanding Louisiana students: Vaishnavi Kumbala of Haynes Academy for Advanced Studies (Metairie) and Nicholas “Nick” White of Isidore Newman School (New Orleans).
Louisiana’s 2025 Presidential Scholars
Vaishnavi Kumbala | Haynes Academy for Advanced Studies, Metairie
Kumbala graduated at the top of her class with a 4.92 GPA and distinguished herself as both a scholar and a leader throughout high school. She served on the Louisiana Legislative Youth Advisory Council, the Louisiana Behavioral Health Advisory Council, and FEMA’s National Youth Preparedness Council.
Nicholas “Nick” White | Isidore Newman School, New Orleans
White graduated with distinction, recognized for his academic excellence, artistic achievements, and athletic contributions. A National Merit Commended student, AP Scholar, and Newman Cum Laude Society inductee, he earned the Faculty Award for Scholarship and top honors on the National Latin Exam.
About the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program
Established in 1964 by Executive Order, the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program honors the nation’s most distinguished graduating high school seniors for their academic achievement, artistic excellence, and accomplishments in career and technical education. Each year, up to 161 students are selected through a rigorous review process by the Commission on Presidential Scholars. For more than 60 years, the program has recognized over 8,000 students who exemplify scholarship, leadership, and service.
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