The Gazebo Gazette
JACKSON (GG) — The Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) announced Tuesday, April 22, 2025 that Alexis Griffith, a senior from Long Beach High School has been selected as a 2025 U.S. Presidential Scholars semifinalists. The program honors the nation’s most distinguished graduating high school seniors.
Mississippi’s semifinalists were selected from among thousands of candidates nationwide. The semifinalists form the pool from which up to 161 students will be chosen a 2025 U.S. Presidential Scholar.
Additionally, two students from Gulfport High School were chosen. Sohni Rainna Beamon & Jackson Alexander Pearce were the seniors selected from Gulfport.
Scholars are chosen based on accomplishments in academic and artistic success, career and technical fields, leadership, and involvement in school and the community. The scholars represent excellence in education and the promise of greatness in America’s young people.
Created in 1964, the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program honors the nation’s top-performing students with the prestigious award given to honorees during the annual ceremony in Washington D.C. The program was later expanded to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the arts and career and technical education fields.
