2 Ohio students named 2025 U.S. Presidential Scholars

OHIO — The U.S. Department of Education recognized 161 high school seniors across the country for their accomplishments in academics, arts and career and technical education fields. 

Within the 2025 U.S. Presidential Scholars, two students from the Buckeye State were named: Rohan Bala, from New Albany High School and Audrey Lu from Columbus Academy. 

“The Department applauds the effort and excellence of both honorees, as well as the outstanding semifinalists and the educators and families who support Ohio students,” the Ohio Department of Education & Workforce said in a news release. 

There were more than 6,400 candidates that qualified this year of the 3.9 million high school graduates, based on their outstanding performances on the SAT or ACT exam or nominations made by chief state school officers and partner recognition organizations.

Two students from each state, including the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and U.S. families living abroad, are selected each year. 

In this latest group of honorees, an additional 15 scholars were chosen at large; 20 scholars in the arts and 20 scholars in career and technical education. 

Since 1964, the program has honored over 8,600 of the country’s top-performing students.

For a full list of the 2025 U.S. Presidential Scholars, click here.