Local student presidential scholar
June 24, 2008
Christina Chang, Wesklake High School
Westlake High student Christina M. Chang was named a 2008 Presidential Scholar by U.S. Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings. Presidential Scholars were honored for their accomplishments in Washington, D.C., from June 21 to 24.
Chang is one of 139 outstanding American high school seniors that have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement, artistic excellence, leadership, citizenship, and service at school and in their community.
"The 2008 Presidential Scholars shine a bright hope on the future of our country," Spellings said. "Not only have these young graduates demonstrated exemplary discipline and achievement in academics and the arts, but they have also exhibited exceptional leadership and service to their local communities. Their commitment to excellence and contributions to society reflect the character and innovation necessary to keep America both competitive economically and collaborative in overcoming challenges within our global community."
Chang, recipient of the "Good Citizenship Award" from the Daughters of the American Revolution, participated in MIT's Research Science Institute, as well as the 2007 Texas Girls State at Texas Lutheran University. Her activities have included Spanish Club founder/president, Recycling Club secretary, Mu Alpha Theta Society secretary and webmaster, captain of the Spelling and Vocabulary Team, and executive member of the Student Council. Chang plans to attend Princeton University to study biochemistry.
The 139 Presidential Scholars include one young man and one young woman from each state, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, and from U.S. families living abroad, as well as 15 chosen at large and 20 Presidential Scholars in the Arts.
The teacher chosen for recognition by Chang was Mark Misage, of Austin, Texas.
A 29-member Commission on Presidential Scholars appointed by President Bush selected the Scholars based on their academic success, artistic excellence, essays, school evaluations and transcripts, as well as evidence of community service, leadership, and demonstrated commitment to high ideals.
The Presidential Scholars program was created in 1964 to honor academic achievement.
