Hawaii Presidential Scholars

Press Release

Kimiko M. Matsuda-Lawrence from University Lab School and Kyle Y. Matsuda from Hawaii Prepatory Academy are Hawaii's 2012 Presidential Scholars, Senator Daniel K. Inouye, Senator Daniel K. Akaka, U.S. Representative Mazie K. Hirono and U.S. Representative Colleen Hanabusa announced today.

Matsuda-Lawrence and Matsuda are two of 141 U.S. Presidential Scholars, selected by the U.S. Department of Education.

Since its creation by Executive Order in 1964, the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program has honored more than 6,000 graduating high school seniors for academic excellence, artistic accomplishments, and civic contributions.

Each year this unique program invites more than 3,000 students to apply for recognition based on outstanding scores on the College Board SAT or ACT assessments.

Applicants are further evaluated on the basis of school reports and transcripts, leadership activities, and contributions to family, school and community.

"I would like to congratulate Kimiko and Kyle for their hard work, focus, and dedication in the classroom. Not only did they excel academically, they are active, productive members of their community. A special thanks to their families and teachers who support these fine students and provide them the means to succeed. Their recognition is further proof that education is the greatest investment we can make in our future," said Senator Inouye.

"As a former educator, I am heartened to see students excel in their studies," said Senator Akaka. "It makes me especially proud to see two bright and motivated students from my home state receive this high recognition for their hard work and dedication to scholastic achievement. Kimiko and Kyle have excelled in their studies, campus leadership, and community service. I commend them for this recognition, and wish them the very best for their bright futures."

"Academically strong and well-rounded, Kimiko and Kyle excel inside the classroom and out. Congratulations to these student leaders, their teachers, and their families as Kimiko and Kyle now represent the State of Hawaii with distinction. I am honored to recognize Kimiko's selection as I consider her parents, Charles and Mari, dear friends. And I am impressed by Kyle's selection as he's not only a fine young scholar, but also an accomplished jazz pianist. As a member of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, I am proud to recognize these newly named U.S. Presidential Scholars and wish them great success in the next chapters of their lives," said Congresswoman Hirono.

"Hawaii is proud that our students stand with the finest in the nation, representing the success our state can achieve in public and private education. I take these awards as proof that our investment in education has paid dividends, and that we must continue to support our students so others like Mr. Matsuda and Ms. Matsuda-Lawrence can move closer to fulfilling their dreams."

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