F-M High School senior Emma Lape has the distinction of being named a 2012 Presidential Scholar candidate.

The program was established in 1964 to recognize and honor distinguished graduating high school seniors.

The White House Commission on Presidential Scholars and the Department of Education invites 3,000 candidates to apply each year.

Emma was selected to apply based on her SAT scores.

“I was really surprised. A lot of letters come in the mail about different programs and I almost didn’t open it,” Emma said. “But then I noticed that it was from the government and thought I should look at it. I‘m really glad I did.”

Each spring, up to 141 students - one boy and one girl from each state - are named as Presidential Scholars.

The students are honored in Washington, D.C. in June and receive the U.S. Presidential Scholars medallion in recognition of their leadership, scholarship, artistic ability, and contributions to school and community.

Four area students named as Presidential Scholar candidates - syracuse.com. 02/20/12