Two outstanding students from Brookfield Central (BC) have been named semifinalists in the prestigious 2026 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program. BC Seniors Vaidehi Ramachandrula and Riana Wolosek are among only twelve students selected from Wisconsin as semifinalists this year.

The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, established in 1964, is one of the highest honors bestowed upon graduating high school seniors in the United States. It recognizes students for their exceptional academic performance, leadership qualities, and significant contributions to their schools and communities.

This year, over 6,500 students were nominated from a nationwide pool of more than 3.6 million graduating seniors. From this group, 627 semifinalists were selected based on rigorous academic criteria and achievements. Ultimately, the Commission on Presidential Scholars will select 161 students to receive the final honor, including representatives from each state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and U.S. families living abroad, along with up to 20 Presidential Scholars in the Arts and 20 in Career and Technical Education, a category for which Riana is recognized.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Vaidehi and Riana on this remarkable achievement and wish them continued success as they move forward in the final selection process. Elmbrook is proud to have had seven students become Presidential Scholars since 2017.

For more information about the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, click here.