U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona announced the 2024 U.S. Presidential Scholars, recognizing 161 high school seniors for their accomplishments in academics, the arts, and career and technical education.

Annabella Burton Boone, a senior at Olentangy Berlin High School, was named a Presidential Scholar. She is one of only two Presidential Scholars from Ohio.

“The 161 high school seniors selected for the 60th anniversary of the U.S. Presidential Scholars represent the best of our nation’s schools and inspire hope in the bright future of this country,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona in a May 9 media release. “On behalf of President Biden, I am delighted to celebrate their accomplishments, and encourage these scholars to continue to aim high, lift up others, and embrace opportunities to lead.”

The White House Commission on Presidential Scholars selects scholars based on academic success, excellence in the arts and in technical education, through essays, school evaluations and transcripts, as well as a demonstrated commitment to community service and leadership.

In addition to the student honorees, the U.S. Department of Education also recognized Berlin High School English teacher Michelle Mimna as a 2024 U.S. Presidential Scholars Distinguished Teacher. Mimna, who was nominated by Burton Boone, is one of 161 educators awarded this recognition for their “extraordinary impact on the community through the integration of ambitious scholarship and dynamic student engagement.”

Olentangy Berlin High School principal Todd Spinner remarked, “Annabella is an involved, dedicated, kind, and passionate person, and truly deserving of this prestigious recognition. She leads by example, serves others, and truly loves to learn.”

Spinner continued, “Michelle Mimna is a special kind of teacher that gets the best out of her students by using strategic encouragement while challenging them to reach their potential. She is a leader for staff and students as a department chair, a coach, and a senior class advisor.”

Established in 1964, the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program has honored over 8,200 of the nation’s top-performing students. The program was expanded in 1979 to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the visual, literary and performing arts. In 2015, the program was again extended to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical education fields.

The Presidential Scholars Class of 2024 will be recognized for their outstanding achievement this summer with an online recognition program.