Westlake High School Senior Named Presidential Scholars Candidate

Westlake High School senior Alex Ikezawa was selected as a candidate for the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.

The program was established in 1964 by executive order of the President to recognize and honor some of the nation’s most distinguished graduating seniors. Annually, up to 161 students are chosen from among outstanding graduating seniors to become U.S. Presidential Scholars, one of the nation’s highest honors for high school students.

Scholars are chosen on the basis of their accomplishments in many areas—academic and artistic success, leadership, and involvement in school and community—and represent excellence in education and the promise of greatness in America’s youth. They are invited to Washington, D.C., in June to participate in the National Recognition Program, featuring various events and enrichment activities, and culminating in the presentation of the Presidential Scholars Medallion during a White House-sponsored ceremony.

Alex earned a perfect 36 on the ACT last year. He is an all-state violinist and served as assistant concertmaster of the Contemporary Youth Orchestra in Cleveland, the only youth orchestra in the country dedicated to the study and performance of contemporary orchestral literature. He also is a member of the WHS Orchestra, National Honor Society and Student Council. Alex is part of the instrumental cover band “Atlas” with friends.

About 800 candidates will be selected as semifinalists and named in early April, and Scholars will be selected in early May.