3 Twin Cities Students Selected As U.S. Presidential Scholars

MINNEAPOLIS – Three students from Minnesota are among the 60th class of U.S. Presidential Scholars, the U.S. Department of Education announced Friday.

Started in 1964, the White House Commission on Presidential Scholars selects scholars annually based on their academic success, artistic and technical excellence, essays, school evaluations and transcripts, and demonstrated commitment to community service and leadership.

"These students exemplify academic excellence and have demonstrated community service and leadership by sharing their unique talents. Congratulations to all of you on this well-deserved recognition," said Minnesota Education Commissioner Willie Jett in a statement.

"We are excited to celebrate this award with you and encourage other students to learn from your example both in and outside of the classroom."

The three students from Minnesota were:

• Ming Wei Yeoh from Chanhassen (Minnetonka High School) was recognized as a Presidential Scholar in the Arts.
• Derrick Siu from Edina (Edina High School) and Philippa Jane Pflaum from Wayzata (Phillips Exeter Academy in Exeter, New Hampshire) were recognized as Presidential Scholars.

The Presidential Scholars Class of 2024 will be recognized this summer with an online program.