Three New Hampshire Students Named U.S. Presidential Scholars

CONCORD, NH — The New Hampshire Department of Education is pleased to congratulate three New Hampshire students selected to the 58th class of U.S. Presidential Scholars. 

On Thursday, U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona announced the names of 161 high school seniors nationwide who were awarded this prestigious honor, specifically for their accomplishments in academics, the arts, and career and technical education fields. 

The New Hampshire scholars include: 
•    Ke Nicole Du Hu of Concord, from St. Paul's School in Concord.
•    Vincent H. Xiao of Lee, from Phillips Exeter Academy in Exeter.
•    Lilia R. Potter-Schwartz of Portsmouth, from Portsmouth High School.

“This is a tremendous honor for three New Hampshire students that have exceled and stood out among a large group of worthy and talented seniors throughout the country. Their academic drive and commitment to education is profound, and we applaud their many accomplishments,” said Frank Edelblut, commissioner of education.  

New Hampshire’s three scholars were among more than 5,000 candidates who qualified for the 2022 awards. Scholars are selected annually by the White House Commission on Presidential Scholars based on their academic success and other achievements. 

“Our 2022 Presidential Scholars represent the best of America, and remind us that when empowered by education, there are no limits to what our young people can achieve,” U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona said in a statement. “ … I join President Biden to celebrate a class of scholars whose pursuit of knowledge, generosity of spirit, and exceptional talents bring our nation tremendous pride. Throughout one of the most trying periods in our nation’s history and amid our recovery from the pandemic, our students have once again demonstrated their strength and that they have so much to contribute to our country. Thanks to them, I know America’s future is bright.”

Photos (from left): Ke Nicole Du Hu, Vincent Xiao and Lilia Potter-Schwartz.