The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964
Cookeville –Maddox Beaty was chosen as one of the Tennessee Department of Education’s (TDOE) nominees for the U.S. Presidential Scholars program. Beaty is one of 20 (10 males/10 females) selected and carefully reviewed by experts across the TDOE as a candidate for the Presidential Scholars program.
“Receiving this news made me feel relieved. All the scholarships and offers for college are coming in and knowing that I have this additionally is a great feeling,” said Beaty.
Cookeville High School counselor Julie Smith said it has been a couple of years since CHS senior has had a student receive a nomination as a U.S. Presidential Scholar.
“it is a big deal when our students are chosen out of all seniors in Tennessee as a nominee. Maddox had to apply and then the school had a part to submit as well,” said Smith. “Mrs. Hardin and myself helped from the school side, but Maddox had to take the initiative to do his part, which he did willingly. From there it went to the State of Tennessee to be reviewed. We were thrilled when we heard the news. Maddox is a great student and well deserving of this recognition. We are very proud of him here at Cookeville High School.”
Pictured, from l. to r.: Julie Smith, CHS Counselor; Maddox Beaty, and CHS Principal Max Petett.
The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964 to recognize and honor some of our most distinguished graduating high school seniors. Each year, up to 161 students are named Presidential Scholars, one of the highest honors for high school students. The 2023 Candidates have posted. Beaty’s name is on that list. The Semifinalists will post in mid-April, and the 2023 U.S. Presidential Scholars will awarded in early May.
“Now that Beaty has been named a candidate. He will go on to see if he makes it as a semifinalist, and so on. Regardless of the outcomes, PCSS and CHS are extremely proud of him,” said CHS Principal Max Petett.
Beaty, who has already has a scholarship offer to Alabama, offers advice to those students entering high school with big dreams.
“‘There are so many things that I would like to have heard when I stepped through the CHS doors for the first time,” said Beaty. “The first is very simple. Everyone must learn to balance their lives and school work healthily. It helps to find something enjoyable at school while also involving yourself in outside activities. Personally, cross-country allowed me to destress from my workload and gain many close friends. Also, remember to take classes you’re comfortable with taking. Challenge yourself but know your comfort zone, and balance out the stress with some extracurriculars that you’re interested in.”
Photos courtesy of Putnam County School System.
