BASIS Charter Schools is celebrating two extraordinary students who have earned one of the nation’s highest academic honors. Congratulations to Eesha Sutaria from BASIS Chandler and Johnny Yu from BASIS Tucson North, recognized as 2025 U.S. Presidential Scholars. This year, they are Arizona’s only recipients among 161 students selected nationwide.
“Being named a U.S. Presidential Scholar is an incredible honor and a validation of the work I’ve put in throughout high school,” said Johnny Yu, a 2025 graduate of BASIS Tucson North. “I’m grateful for the rigorous curriculum, dedicated teachers and opportunities BASIS Tucson North provided that helped make this possible. At BASIS, I was able to explore my interests in both business and technology through founding the Business and Finance Club and leading the Math Club. Those experiences helped pave the way for me to pursue Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences (EECS) and business at UC Berkeley in the Management, Entrepreneurship and Technology (M.E.T.) program, where I’m now exploring the intersection of startups, venture capital and AI. BASIS also encouraged me to grow in unexpected ways, like the Intermediate Drama class that helped me come out of my shell and become more confident on stage. I’m especially grateful to Mr. Carotenuto, whose mentorship, encouragement and philosophy of ‘How can I help you be successful?’ shaped my journey and continues to guide me today.”
Established in 1964 by Executive Order of the President, the program was created to honor students whose achievements embody academic excellence, leadership, and service to their communities.
Since its founding more than 60 years ago, the program has recognized over 8,000 students, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to education and the pursuit of greatness among young people.
- Academic achievement
- Artistic excellence, through participation in programs such as YoungArts™
- Outstanding accomplishment in career and technical education
Candidates are identified through a rigorous national selection process. For the general academic program, students are initially chosen based on top SAT and ACT performance within each state or jurisdiction. For the arts and career education components, students are nominated through national partners or their state education officials and evaluated on portfolios, essays, and school endorsements.
A review committee of educators and experts evaluates each candidate’s achievements, leadership, character, and contributions to school and community. Approximately 650 candidates advance as semifinalists to be reviewed by the Commission on Presidential Scholars, which selects up to 161 students nationwide.
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