Central New York student named U.S. Presidential Scholar – one of only six in New York state [Video]

North Syracuse, N.Y. — A Central New York high school senior has been named a 2024 U.S. Presidential Scholar, one of only six in New York state.

The student, Thomas A. Wills II, is a senior at Cicero-North Syracuse High School.

Nationwide, 161 high school seniors were named Presidential Scholars this year.

Scholars are selected on the basis of academic and artistic achievements, leadership qualities, strong character and involvement in community and school activities.

The U.S. Education Department announced the scholars Thursday.

Thomas is the district’s first student ex-officio school board member and has excelled academically, the district said when he was nominated for the award.

Thomas is the son of Melissa and Matt Gussak and Thomas Wills Sr.

The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964.