Assemblyman Billy Jones (D-Chateaugay Lake) announced that North Country student Samantha Hart is one of only 20 students from across the state to be nominated for a U.S. Presidential Scholars award. Since it was established in 1964, the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program recognizes and honors high school seniors for academic, creative, career and technical accomplishments.

“The students learning in our classrooms today will soon become the leaders that guide our communities toward a brighter future,” Jones said. “It’s with great pride that we congratulate one of these remarkable young minds, Samantha Hart, on her nomination for this prestigious award. Despite two years of challenges and disruptions to our school system, Samantha’s work ethic and dedication to bettering her community has never wavered. I wish her the best of luck in her future endeavors and am confident that she’ll succeed at whatever she puts her mind to.”

A leader inside and outside the classroom, Samantha Hart is an ideal candidate for the 2022 Presidential Scholars Program. She is currently ranked first in her class at Northern Adirondack Central School District, an already impressive feat on top of the numerous afterschool activities she’s involved in.This includes serving as president of the drama club and treasurer of the business club, as well as playing on the tennis team for three years.

But, most importantly, Samantha is not just an exceptional student but an exceptional person. As a member of the key club and youth court, she helps organize events to bolster school spirit and give back to the community. She also makes time to volunteer at her church and brings her kind, welcoming spirit wherever she goes. Samantha aspires to become an attorney, a profession where she can continue to broaden her view of the world and improve the lives of others.