Jiao ’18 Named U.S. Presidential Scholar Candidate

For his outstanding performance on the ACT college readiness exam, Springs student Ken Jiao ’18 has been selected as a candidate for the United States Presidential Scholars Program.

Jiao, who has been in the national spotlight for his groundbreaking breast cancer research, earned a perfect 36 on the ACT in September 2017, his first time taking the test. The odds of achieving a perfect score are around one-tenth of one percent, according to data from ACT.

The Presidential Scholars Program, established in 1964, recognizes the academic success of distinguished graduating seniors. Each year, more than 4,500 students are selected as candidates. To advance as competitors, candidates must submit an application that includes essays, self-assessments, school reports, and transcripts. Up to 600 competitors are chosen as program semifinalists and up to 161 are chosen as Presidential Scholars.

All scholars are honored in the National Recognition Program held in Washington, D.C., in June. As part of the program, they will receive a commemorative medallion at a special White House ceremony and the opportunity to meet with government officials and leading educators.

Congratulations on your candidacy, Ken, and good luck in the competition!