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Local HS Student Becomes Top Scholarship Semifinalist

By Brian Hagen

04/21/2017

Joseph Kunkel

(KNZA)--Distinct honors for a local high school student, named as a semifinalist for the 2017 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.

Joseph Kunkel is a graduating senior at Hiawatha High School. He becomes one of 722 semifinalists who were selected from a field of nearly 5,100 candidates expected to graduate from high school in 2017.

According to a press release issued by the U.S. Department of Education, the program "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.

The program is in its 53rd year, established in 1964 by Executive Order. President Lyndon B. Johnson was the first to present the scholarships.

The program was expanded in 1979 and 2015.

Annually, up to 161 U.S. Presidential Scholars are chosen.

A group of up to 32 eminent citizens appointed by the President will select the finalists, with the U.S. Department of Education to announce the Scholars in May.

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