November 13, 2026 — Each year since 1964, up to 161 students from across the country have earned the distinction of being named a U.S. Presidential Scholar.

Ananya Rajagopalan, a Wheeler High School class of 2026 graduate, was recently awarded this rare honor. 

Ananya is one of only three students in Georgia to receive the honor and the first Cobb Schools student to be named a U.S. Presidential Scholar since 2017.

In 2017, the honor went to Kennesaw Mountain High School's Zane Placie.

"Being named a U.S. Presidential Scholar is an unbelievable personal accomplishment for Ananya. During her time at Wheeler, she served as a model student leader, both academically and in her extracurricular activities.  We are so proud that Wheeler's faculty and staff were able to play a role in her educational journey," said Wheeler's principal, Dr. Sara Fetterman. 

To be awarded the U.S. Presidential Scholars medallion, students are selected based on academic success. Approximately 4,000 candidates are identified nationwide through academic achievement and other selection pathways. From there, the top 40 scores in each state are selected, and students are then individually considered for the honor of being named a U.S. Presidential Scholar. Follow the link to learn more about the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program and selection process. 

After excelling at Wheeler, Ananya is now continuing her educational journey at one of the top colleges in the country, the University of Pennsylvania. 

For a full list of the 2026 U.S. Presidential Scholar winners, click HERE.