Three Georgia students from the class of 2026 have been recognized as U.S. Presidential Scholars, one of the nation's highest honors for graduating high school seniors.

The Georgia scholars are:

• Samanyu Krishna Ganesh – The Westminster Schools

• Yun Xin Lin – Lambert High School, Forsyth County Schools

• Ananya Tara Rajagopalan – Wheeler High School, Cobb County School District

Lin was recognized as a U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts, making her one of just 20 students nationwide selected for that distinction.

"Congratulations to Samanyu, Yun Xin, and Ananya on earning this extraordinary national recognition," State School Superintendent Richard Woods said. "Their achievements reflect years of hard work, curiosity, and commitment to developing their talents. I am proud to celebrate these outstanding Georgia students and the families and educators who have supported them along the way."

The three Georgia honorees are among 161 U.S. Presidential Scholars recognized nationally in 2026 for their accomplishments in academics, the arts, and career and technical education. More than 6,700 candidates qualified for this year's awards.

Established in 1964 by executive order of the President, the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program honors some of the nation's most distinguished graduating high school seniors. The program expanded in 1979 to recognize exceptional talent in the visual, creative, and performing arts, and in 2015 to recognize achievement in career and technical education.

The White House Commission on Presidential Scholars identifies honorees through a rigorous selection process, evaluating academic excellence, artistic and technical talent, essays, school recommendations, and evidence of leadership and community service.