Rick Hilscher of Boothbay Harbor, a graduating senior at North Yarmouth Academy, has been named one of 630 semifinalists in the 2018 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program. The semifinalists were chosen from nearly 5,300 candidates expected to graduate from U.S. high schools in 2018.

Inclusion in the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, now in its 54th year, is one of the highest honors bestowed upon graduating high school seniors. Scholars are selected on the basis of superior academic and artistic achievements, leadership qualities, strong character and involvement in community and school activities.

The Commission on Presidential Scholars, a group of up to 32 eminent citizens appointed by the President, will select the finalists, and the U.S. Department of Education will announce the Scholars in May. Scholars will be invited to Washington, D.C. for several days in June to receive the Presidential Scholar Medallion at a recognition ceremony and to participate in events and activities.

Hilscher is also a semifinalist for a National Merit Scholar award. He will be attending Northwestern University this fall.