August 21, 2003 :: No. 23

Incoming Class of President’s Scholars Arriving at Cal State Fullerton

This month, 22 of the region’s best-and-brightest graduating high school seniors will enter Cal State Fullerton as President’s Scholars — the most prestigious status the university accords to incoming students.

“This had to be the most difficult year choosing President’s Scholars because of the increased caliber of academic, community service and leadership backgrounds evident in the pool of 575 applicants,” noted James Mettler, director of the President’s Scholars Program. “This year’s incoming scholars mean GPA was 4.22,” he added.

Established in 1979, the President’s Scholars program recognizes and attracts a distinguished group of academically accomplished students. In addition to the use of laptop computers, these incoming freshmen receive a full scholarship that covers all student fees and a $750 annual stipend for textbooks up to four years, so long as they are enrolled full time, maintain a 3.5 grade-point average, and contribute to university and community activities.

All scholars are granted automatic admission to the university Honors Program, priority registration, complimentary parking permits and consideration for on-campus housing. They also have opportunities to attend special seminars and meet periodically with the university president.

Scholars are selected on the basis of superior academic and extracurricular achievement in high school.

The incoming President’s Scholars, by cities of residence and major, are:

Community members who served on the 25-member screening committee include Peggy Hammer of Placentia, Verne Wagner and Helena Schwartz of Fullerton, and Donna Geer of Upland. The committee was chaired by Lorraine E. Prinsky, professor of sociology.