A Fairport High School senior has earned a chance to compete for one of the country’s top academic honors. Lucia Cardona (‘22) was nominated by New York State’s Education Commissioner Betty Rosa for the national Presidential Scholars Program. Rosa nominated 25 students from across the state in late December to compete for the national honor. Of those students, Lucia is the only nominee from the Rochester area. 

“I am excited and honored to be recognized! I naturally shy away from attention, so it’s a little overwhelming, but I appreciate that my efforts in school have been noticed,” said Lucia. She says her academic success is based on a lot of factors. “It’s my goal to do my best in each of my classes, and the teachers at Fairport set out very clear expectations, so that has made it possible for me to complete assignments well.”

Lucia plans to study biology in college, and is waiting to hear back from several schools before deciding where she will study next.

“I will say that Fairport has the best teachers and they have inspired my learning and academic success. I am so thankful to them as well as to my guidance counselor, Mrs. Manillo, who has been so supportive and positive,” said Lucia.

The Presidential Scholarship students were recommended to the State Education Department by their local legislators. Assemblymember Jen Lunsford nominated Lucia.

Asm. Lunsford said about Lucia, in part; “Lucia is not only a fixture of the High Honor Roll, a talented varsity athlete and musician, but also a dedicated volunteer who donates her time and energy to lift up her community. Lucia truly embodies the passion, values and work ethic of a future leader and I cannot wait to see what she does next!”

“We would like to congratulate Lucia on this tremendous accomplishment. By all accounts this is a trying time for all students but despite the challenges of learning during the pandemic Lucia has persevered and excelled,” said Fairport High School Principal Bob Clark. “We are very proud to call her a Raider!”

A review committee will evaluate candidates from across the United States. The Program’s website says 650 candidates will be selected for semi finalist positions, and up to 161 high school seniors will be awarded the Presidential Scholar medallion in June.