Rolling Hills High Senior Is Named a Presidential Scholar
Rolling Hills High School senior Alice Y. Peng, 17, of Rancho Palos Verdes, has been named one of this year’s Presidential Scholars.
Peng, a straight-A student who is called a math whiz by teachers and is an accomplished pianist, will attend Harvard University this fall, where she plans to study biochemistry and English literature. She said she plans to become a doctor.
Peng will be among 140 students nationwide who will receive medallions at a White House ceremony Wednesday. The Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation, a philanthropic organization based in New Jersey, also awards each winner a $1,000 scholarship.
The Presidential Scholars program was founded 23 years ago as the nation’s highest honor for high school students. A commission chooses a male and female student from each state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and American families living abroad, plus 15 students at large, on the basis of academic achievements, leadership qualities and involvement in community and school activities.
In addition, 19 students are chosen for accomplishments in the arts, including creative writing, dance, music, theater or visual arts.
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