Carrollton High School senior Luke Zimmer has been named one of more than 4,000 candidates in the 2025 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.
The candidates were selected from nearly 3.9 million students estimated to graduate from U.S. high schools in 2025. Inclusion in the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program is one of the highest honors bestowed upon graduating seniors. Scholars are selected based on superior academic and artistic achievements, leadership qualities, strong character and involvement in community and school activities.
Luke’s high school career goes above and beyond that of the average student. He takes the most challenging courses and participates in a myriad of school activities, including leadership positions in every student organization in which he is involved. As a team captain of the CHS Debate program, he has earned a state championship ring every year of his high school career. Serving the student council as class president, Luke has organized school-wide mental health initiatives. He has even written his own book about the Democratic Republic of the Congo that includes a foreword by a U.S. diplomat from the DRC. His internship through the U.S. Embassy provided him with invaluable experience. Luke’s passion for bettering himself and his community through educating and encouraging others is evident.
“Luke is an exceptional student leader who we knew would be an outstanding nominee in the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program,” said CHS Principal Ian Lyle. “We are extremely proud of his accomplishment to continue to the next round.”
The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964 by Executive Order of the President to recognize the nation’s most distinguished graduating seniors for their accomplishments in many areas: academic success, leadership, and service to school and community. It was expanded in 1979 to recognize students demonstrating exceptional scholarship and talent in the visual, creative, and performing arts. In 2015, the program was expanded again to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical fields.
Annually, up to 161 U.S. Presidential Scholars are chosen from that year’s senior class, representing excellence in education and the promise of greatness in America’s youth. A panel of educators will review the submissions and select approximately 600 semifinalists in early April. A subsequent round of review will determine the finalists, who will be announced in May.
