For Hub City Times

MARSHFIELD — Michael Gui, a graduating senior at Marshfield High School, has been named one of 689 semifinalists in the 2016 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program. The semifinalists were selected from nearly 4,700 candidates expected to graduate from U.S. high schools in 2016.

The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program 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.

During his years at Marshfield High School, Gui has participated and excelled in not only academics but in extracurricular activities such as the National Ocean Sciences Bowl team, the Science Olympiad team, and Health Occupation Students of America. After graduation Gui plans to attend the University of Wisconsin-Madison and study biochemistry.

A distinguished panel of educators will review the 689 semifinalists, and the U.S. Department of Education will announce the Scholars this month. Up to 161 will be chosen. The Scholars are then invited to Washington, D.C. in June for the National Recognition Program, featuring various events and enrichment activities and culminating in the presentation of the Presidential Scholars Medallion during a White House-sponsored ceremony.