Senior Priya Krishnan was selected as a 2012 U.S. Presidential Scholar on May 2. She is one of 141 high school seniors from around the country and the only FCPS student to be honored with this distinction. The selections were announced by U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan.

“I felt very honored to receive the award from President Obama, and represent TJ and Virginia,” Krishnan said. “I’m very happy that all my studying for the SAT paid off for me to be selected as a finalist.”

The Presidential Scholars program was created in 1964 to honor seniors who have demonstrated academic achievement, artistic excellence, leadership, citizenship, service, and contribution to school and community.

Humanities teacher Judith Bello was also chosen for recognition by Krishnan. Bello will be presented with a Teacher Recognition Award from the U.S. Department of Education.

Krishnan and Bello will receive recognition during special events to be held in Washington D.C. from June 16-19.