Mississippi School of Arts senior Annie Wentzell is nowundoubtedly among the top students in the country after beingselected one of only 60 Presidential Scholars.

“When I entered the competition back in November just to seewhat would happen, I didn’t think I’d actually win,” Wentzell said.”And to advance this far is really amazing.”

The United States Presidential Scholars Program was establishedin 1964 to recognize and honor some of America’s most distinguishedgraduating high school seniors. In 1979, the program was extendedto recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in thevisual, creative and performing arts.

Wentzell was recognized for her work in photography. MSAPrincipal Jana Perry said the program opens several doors for theaspiring fashion photographer, as well as being wonderfulrecognition for the school.

“Annie gets an opportunity to learn and go to D.C. this summerto be recognized nationally, which is incredible,” Perry said. “Itcould possibly mean more funding for her for her college as thingsprogress this summer. And we’re becoming nationally known, which isgreat too.”

Presidential Scholars will attend National Recognition Week(NRW) in June and enjoy an expense paid trip to Washington, D.C.,to meet with government officials, educators, authors, musicians,scientists and other accomplished individuals. During the week,scholars will have the opportunity to visit museums and monuments,and to attend recitals receptions and ceremonies. To commemoratetheir achievement, the scholars will be awarded the PresidentialScholars medallion at a ceremony sponsored by the White House.

Wentzell, of Ocean Springs, was one of approximately 3,000graduating high school seniors from across the county identified ascandidates in the program. Only 560 semifinalists were chosen fromthe applicants, which were allowed to apply by invitation only.

Perry said Wentzell is a deserving candidate for the award,having shown great promise in her photographic work.

“Her caliber of photography is what got her this far,” Perrysaid. “Her work here and at home has allowed her to go on this far,and it’s a real tribute to what we do. It just affirms everythingwe know is right in the arts world.”

Wentzell, a fourth-generation photographer, has received a fullscholarship from the Maryland Institute College of Art, where shewill major in photography. She said if she doesn’t become a fashionphotographer, she’d like to be a photojournalist.

“I’m really excited, I just can’t believe it happened,” she saidof winning the award. “There are so many excellent applicants thatI feel honored to have been selected, and I’m really excited at thepossibility of meeting (President Barack) Obama. What more can Isay?”