Six Edmond seniors are scholar program hopefuls
EDMOND — Six seniors from Edmond Public Schools are candidates for the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.
The program was established in 1964 by executive order of the president to recognize the nation’s most distinguished graduating seniors, according to a news release.
Edmond North High School seniors Grace Depp, James “Clay” Rounsavall, Samuel Holloway and Garrett Wilkens, along with Edmond Memorial seniors Robert Walderbach and Karena Zhao, were selected based on academic and artistic success, leadership and involvement in their school and community.
Memorial academic counselor Carol Doherty said Zhao and Walderbach are admired and respected at the school.
“Not too many students make a perfect score on the ACT College Entrance Exam the first time they take it, but Karena did just that,” Doherty said. “Her exceptional leadership qualities are exuded in her academic record, extracurricular activities, personal goals, aspirations and relationships.”
Doherty praised Walderbach for his focus and selfdirection. “Robert is just one of the finest young men you could ever meet,” she said. “He is an outstanding thinker, leader and problem-solver. Teachers really appreciate his determination.”
All four Edmond North candidates were described by a school official as “uniquely gifted.”