Two Naperville students named U.S. Presidential Scholars

Two Naperville residents are among three U.S. Presidential Scholars in Illinois and 161 across the nation.

U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona on Wednesday announced the 59th class of U.S. Presidential Scholars, a list of high school seniors that includes Waubonsie Valley High School's Maxwell Neri, an honoree in career and technical education, and Yina Wang of the Illinois Math and Science Academy.

Both schools are in Aurora, but the students live in Naperville.

"U.S. Presidential Scholars have always represented the future of our country and the bright promise it holds," Cardona said. "I want each of these remarkable students to know: your passion and intellect, pursuit of excellence, and spirit of service are exactly what our country needs."

The White House Commission on Presidential Scholars selects students annually based on their academic success, artistic and technical excellence, essays, school evaluations and transcripts, as well as a demonstrated commitment to community service and leadership.

One male and one female are selected from each state, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. Fifteen at-large scholars are chosen in addition to 20 scholars in the arts and 20 scholars in career and technical education.

The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program has honored more than 8,000 students since its creation in 1964. The Class of 2023 will be recognized this summer with an online program.