Weymouth Student Named U.S. Presidential Scholar

WEYMOUTH, MA — A Weymouth student has been named a 2021 U.S. Presidential Scholar, said U.S. Secretary of Education Dr. Miguel Cardona in a news release Thursday,

Julie A Canuto-Depina, a senior at Southeastern Regional Vocational Technical High School, is one of 161 high school seniors nationwide and one of seven Massachusetts students to receive the honor this year in recognition of their educational accomplishments.

"The 2021 Presidential Scholars represent extraordinary achievements for our extraordinary times," said Cardona in a statement. "I am delighted to join President Biden in saluting these outstanding young people for their achievements, service, character and continued pursuit of excellence. Their examples make me proud and hopeful about the future. Honoring them can remind us all of the great potential in each new generation and renew our commitment to helping them achieve their dreams."

The White House Commission on Presidential Scholars chooses students based on academic success, artistic and technical excellence, essays, school evaluations and transcripts, and evidence of community service, leadership and commitment to high ideals.

Out of the 3.6 million students nationwide who are expected to graduate from high school this year, over 6,000 qualified for the 2021 awards, said Cardona.

Recipients include one young man and one young woman from each state, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, and U.S. families living abroad. In addition, 15 students are chosen at-large, 20 in the arts, and 20 in career and technical education.

The 2021 U.S. Presidential Scholars will be recognized for their achievement with an expense-paid trip to Washington D.C., where they will receive the U.S. Presidential Scholars medallion at a ceremony sponsored by the White House.

A complete list of 2021 U.S. Presidential Scholars can be found here.