COURTESY OF JEFF GUNTON
Right, top: Newly named Presidential Scholars meet Secretary of Education Rod Paige and President George W. Bush in 2003. Right, middle: A Presidential Scholars meet-up in New York City. Presidential Scholar Alumni started meet-ups in some larger cities in 2005. Right, bottom: Presidential Scholars gather for a photo at the White House during the 2010 medallion ceremony.
2004:
Twelve Scholars participate in a two-week, expenses-paid summer study tour to China in coordination with the Chinese Ministry of Education and the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations.
COURTESY OF VIRGIL CALEJESAN
Dec. 21, 2004:
The current Alumni Association effort commences under the leadership of Matt Anestis (1991, CT) and Avery Gardiner (1993, ME), with a 10-year prospectus. This prospectus details plans for an expanded alumni database, the creation of chapters and alumni events, and a 50th anniversary celebration with alumni presentations and a 50 Years of U.S. Presidential Scholars publication in 2014.
2005:
Alumni meet-ups are held in New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Boston.
2006:
Alumni social media groups form on Facebook and LinkedIn.
2010:
The Presidential Scholar Alumni Mentorship Program begins.
COURTESY OF VIRGIL CALEJESAN
2011:
The first Presidential Scholar Alumni Service Week is held.
June 2014: The Alumni Association hosts the 50th Anniversary Summit, with alumni speakers, arts performances by alumni, and this publication.
49 50 YEARS OF U.S. PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS
In Pursuit of Excellence