Three outstanding Mississippi students have been named 2025 U.S. Presidential Scholars, a prestigious national honor awarded to high school seniors who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and talent.
The Mississippi honorees are Alexis Griffith of Long Beach High School, Nichols E. Katsaboulas of Jackson Prep, and Jackson Pearce of Gulfport High School.
U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon announced the full list of 2025 scholars on September 26, recognizing 161 students from across the country. The award honors excellence in academics, the arts, and career and technical education.
“Congratulations to this year’s Presidential Scholars for their remarkable academic, artistic, and technical achievements,” McMahon said. “Out of 3.9 million high school graduates, these 161 students are recognized for their extraordinary performance in their high school career.”
More than 6,400 students were initially considered for the award based on high SAT or ACT scores or nominations by state education leaders and partner organizations.
Since its creation in 1964, the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program has honored over 8,600 students. The program expanded in 1979 to include students in the arts and again in 2015 to recognize those excelling in career and technical education.
Each year, two students from every state, along with additional scholars selected at-large and in specialized categories, are chosen for the honor.
The full list of 2025 U.S. Presidential Scholars is available on the U.S. Department of Education’s website here.