Feb. 20, 2026 |
Article provided by University of Nebraska News. Contact: Cara Pesek 402-570-1585 |
AUBURN, Neb. — Two Auburn High School seniors who earned a perfect score of 36 on the ACT were recognized Tuesday as Presidential Scholars by the University of Nebraska, receiving the university’s most prestigious undergraduate scholarship. The Presidential Scholars program provides a full-ride scholarship covering tuition, fees, room and board, along with a $5,000 annual stipend at any University of Nebraska campus. The award is offered to perfect ACT scorers who apply to the university. Auburn seniors Jack Hayes and Grace Zhang were honored during a schoolwide assembly and presented with commemorative plaques by NU President Dr. Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D. Auburn Public Schools Superintendent David Patton noted the rarity of the achievement. “This accomplishment places them among a very small percentage of students who take the assessment nationwide,” Patton said. “It reflects not only their intelligence, but perseverance and sustained commitment to excellence.” The Auburn High School principal, Dr. Scott Siegal, emphasized how uncommon it is for a school Auburn’s size to produce two perfect scores in the same year. “If we tested 50 students a year, year after year, it’s only a once-in-a-generation feat,” Dr. Siegal said. “So we have two once-in-a-generation accomplishments in the same year.” Dr. Gold praised the students’ broad involvement and leadership. “These are extremely well-rounded students who participate in all different types of school activities, are involved in leadership programs and are competitors,” Dr. Gold said. “They represent Auburn in every possible way.” He also reaffirmed the university’s commitment to student success statewide. “The University of Nebraska is committed to access and affordability across all spectrums of academic achievement,” Dr. Gold said. “We do not have an entering class. We enroll a graduating class, and we’re committed to the success of every one of our students.” Launched in 2024, the Presidential Scholars program was created to keep Nebraska’s top students in-state while connecting them to meaningful academic, leadership and research opportunities across the NU system. Dr. Harnoor Dhaliwal, NU vice provost for innovative student experiences and leader of the program, said scholars join a community designed to develop collaborative leaders. “Every summer, our Presidential Scholars participate in a high-impact research or internship opportunity,” said Dr. Dhaliwal. “We want them to take what they’re learning in the classroom and apply it to real-world settings.” He encouraged all students to aim high while recognizing opportunity extends beyond a single score. “Aspire for a perfect ACT, but know that regardless of your score, at the University of Nebraska, we want you to come and be a part of our community,” Dr. Dhaliwal said. Hayes, one of the students honored, said he looks forward to expanding his experiences at NU. “I’m really excited to broaden my horizons,” Hayes said. “I really like that the University of Nebraska emphasizes being prepared for the workforce and emphasizes doing internships or research as part of the academic journey.” Zhang, the other student honored during the event, said she is eager to pursue research opportunities. “The thing I’m most excited for would probably be the summer research and internships,” Zhang said. “I’m really glad that the university is supporting us and willing to do a lot to help us succeed.” Speakers at the event included Patton, Dr. Siegal, Dr. Gold, and Dr. Dhaliwal. A reception followed the program. More information on the Presidential Scholars program is available at: https://nebraska.edu/presidential-scholars |