Harrison High School Senior Is Presidential Scholar Nominee
Neyferson Solis Usme, a senior at Harrison High School, is one of 25 high school seniors nominated by the New York State Education Department for the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program. Presidential Scholar recognition is one of the nation’s highest honors for high school students who represent excellence in education and the promise of greatness in young people. Since 1964, the White House Commission on Presidential Scholars selects scholars annually.
Neyferson, a dedicated student, talented musician, varsity athlete and active member of the community, and is “grateful for the opportunity to be considered by a program that looks at who the student is as an all-around person.” He approaches all he does with determination, humility, kindness and empathy; connecting with other students is an important part of Neyferson’s high school experience both inside out of the classroom. When asked about what he most values as a student at Harrison High School, Neyferson said, “the community at the high school and learning with friends in my classes.”
Throughout high school Neyferson has challenged himself academically, taking International Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement courses. While he enjoys all his classes, his favorite is Physics, where he has learned “to take an analytical look at how the world works and apply math to conceptual questions.” He is currently taking IB Physics.
Neyferson has played in the high school band since 9th grade, and recently began playing with the Westchester Brassmen. Band is where he “expresses himself through music and gets to know other student musicians.” He began taking band in 4th grade, and learned to play the flute which he played until 10th grade. However, when the high school band was in need of a tuba player, Neyferson decided to take on a new challenge and, with the support of band teacher Ms. Loertscher, taught himself to play the tuba. Neyferson began wrestling in 7th grade at LMK Middle School and currently is a member of the Varsity Wrestling Team. As a senior wrestler, Neyferson has enjoyed connecting with and mentoring underclassmen on the team. Neyferson also finds time to serve others in the community by distributing food to people in need.
Harrison High School Principal Kimberly Beukema shared, “Neyferson is an active member of our school community. He has challenged himself with rigorous courses and approaches all he does with enthusiasm and hard work. I am proud of his achievement and recognition as a Presidential Scholar nominee.”
School Counselor Lauren Ciallella offered, “I have seen Neyferson grow as a young man committed to school, family and his community and I am confident that will continue in the next phase of his education.”
Commissioner Rosa said, “It is my privilege to submit these fine students to represent New York as Presidential Scholar candidates. Each has shown excellence in their pursuits in school and has made their mark in their community, building on their education through service to others. Each of these students deserves this honor, and I wish them well in the selection process.”
Senator Shelley B. Mayer congratulated Neyferson, “Congratulations to Neyferson Solis Usme, on being nominated by Commissioner Betty A. Rosa for the prestigious Presidential Scholars Program.