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A William Floyd High School senior is among 25 New York state nominees for the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, one of the nation’s most prestigious honors for high school students.
Victoria Basharina is one of only four students from Long Island and two from Suffolk County nominated this year. She was selected in the general component category by New York State Commissioner of Education Betty A. Rosa. This marks the second time in three years that a William Floyd student has earned the distinction.
With a weighted GPA above 100, Victoria is set to graduate 11th in a class of 767. She has completed a combined 13 advanced placement courses and dual-enrollment classes at Suffolk County Community College and Stony Brook University. Her achievements extend beyond academics, with involvement in numerous extracurricular activities, including the National Honor Society, Robotics and Stony Brook’s Science Technology Entry Program (STEP).
Emigrated from Russia
Victoria emigrated from Russia as a child and has attended William Floyd schools since first grade at Moriches Elementary School, school officials said.
An alumna of William Floyd Middle School, she has embraced a number of challenges, including adapting to a new culture and language. She meanwhile dedicated herself to community service by volunteering at food drives, attending conservation events and tutoring students learning English.
Victoria’s guidance counselor, Ashley Siebert, praised her intellectual curiosity, resilience and compassion, while her science teacher, Martin Palermo, highlighted her hard work and passion for learning.
“She is a shining example of what it means to be a William Floyd student,” Palermo said.
Nominees for the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program are evaluated on academic success, artistic and technical achievements, leadership, and community service. Finalists will receive a Presidential Scholars medallion at a June ceremony in Washington, D.C.
About the Scholars Program
The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964 to recognize the nation’s most distinguished graduating high school seniors.
In 1979, the program was extended to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the visual, creative and performing arts. In 2015, the program was again extended to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical education fields.
The White House Commission on Presidential Scholars selects students annually based on their academic success, artistic excellence, essays, school evaluations and transcripts, as well as evidence of community service, leadership and demonstrated commitment to high ideals.