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TASIS Dorado Senior Owen Weber Named 2024 U.S. Presidential Scholar for Puerto Rico
TASIS Dorado Senior Owen Weber named 2024 U.S. Presidential Scholar
This week, the U.S. Secretary of Education, Miguel Cardona, announced the 60th class of U.S. Presidential Scholars. TASIS Dorado senior Owen Weber '24 joins 161 high school seniors who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement, artistic and technical excellence, and a commitment to community service and leadership.
As directed by Presidential Executive Order, the 2024 U.S. Presidential Scholars are comprised of one young man and one young woman from each state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and U.S. families living abroad, as well as 15 chosen at large, 20 scholars in the arts, and 20 scholars in career and technical education.
Owen's leadership skills, exceptional work ethic, and passion for learning have earned him recognition as a highly motivated and enthusiastic student who consistently strives for excellence. He joined TASIS Dorado as a 10th grader and has excelled academically, achieving the Highest Honor Roll each semester and earning the title of a two-time AP Scholar with Distinction. He serves as the vice president of the Computer Science Honor Society and co-captain of the Varsity Golf Team. He is also a member of the National Honor Society and the Leadership Academy, among other school clubs. This season, he won the MVP title for the Varsity Golf Team. Owen has set his sights on attending the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill to study economics.
Owen has a long track record of volunteering with organizations such as Love In Motion, Citizen Science Mapping, and Fundacion Para La Nueva Esperanza, which he co-founded with his team at the TASIS Dorado Leadership Academy in April 2023. Through their collective efforts, they have raised substantial funds to support local initiatives, including donations for La Escuela La Esperanza, a school that serves diverse communities. Owen has also actively participated in community service experiences, including work in El Yunque National Rain Forest, beach cleanups, and contributing to online disaster relief mapping efforts, which help rescue teams understand the affected areas. In addition to his community service work, Owen enjoys exploring new places around Puerto Rico, immersing himself in the local culture, and appreciating the natural beauty of the great outdoors.
Owen shared, "I am thankful for all the opportunities and people at TASIS who have allowed me to grow into the person I am today. TASIS is special, and the amazing teachers and students make me feel like part of a family. I am excited and humbled to be selected as a Presidential Scholar representing Puerto Rico, and I am happy to make the TASIS community proud."
Recognizing Jaime Ramirez as his most influential teacher earned him the prestigious Distinguished Teacher Recognition Award from the U.S. Department of Education. Owen selected him as his Distinguished Teacher because Jaime has been a constant source of support and trust since their first meeting. "Jaime has looked out for me since day one. He truly cares for all his students and has always given me great advice and support. He has helped me so much at TASIS, and I know that if I am ever in danger or need to talk to someone, Jaime is my first call," Owen said. Jaime has been an educator at TASIS for fifteen years and teaches AP World History and History of the Americas. Jaime also coaches TASIS Dorado Golf, Track and Field, and Chess teams.
"Owen Weber is an insightful, centered, and brilliant young man, capable of assuming the responsibilities of a seasoned adult. He is a soft-spoken leader with charisma and an understanding of the complexities of history and contemporary times. Above these qualities, he is a gentleman and an exquisite human being. I am proud of his achievements and honored by his recognition of our relationship," Distinguished Teacher Jaime Ramírez proudly said.
Head of School Deborah Monroe stated, "Owen Weber epitomizes academic excellence, dedicated service, and empathetic leadership at TASIS Dorado. His sharp intellect and perseverance in undertaking 15 Advanced Placement courses showcase his outstanding commitment to learning. Moreover, Owen's passion for environmental sustainability and leadership in our Leadership Academy highlight his proactive approach to global issues. His empathy and concern for others shine through in his community service efforts. As he prepares for the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, I am confident that the skills and values instilled at TASIS will propel him to future success, leaving a lasting impact both in college and beyond. On behalf of the Board of Directors and Administration, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to him on this remarkable achievement."
Upper School Director Sara Hernández said, "Owen's remarkable talents, steadfast commitment, innate leadership abilities, and compassionate nature truly enrich the TASIS Dorado community. We are thrilled to celebrate his recent achievement as a Presidential Scholar, a testament to his exceptional dedication and pursuit of excellence. His unwavering sense of responsibility and relentless pursuit of greatness ensure his future success. We eagerly await witnessing his continued achievements and the positive impact he will undoubtedly make on those around him."
The White House Commission on Presidential Scholars selects scholars annually based on their academic success, artistic and technical excellence, essays, school evaluations, transcripts, and a demonstrated commitment to community service and leadership.
Of the 3.8 million students expected to graduate from high school this year, more than 5,000 candidates qualified for the 2024 awards determined by outstanding performance on the College Board SAT or ACT exams or through nominations made by chief state school officers, other partner recognition organizations, and YoungArts, the National Foundation for the Advancement of Artists.
Created in 1964, the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program has honored over 8,000 of the nation's top-performing students. The program was expanded in 1979 to recognize students with exceptional visual, literary, and performing arts talent. In 2015, the program was again extended to recognize students demonstrating ability and accomplishment in career and technical education. With an online recognition program, the Presidential Scholars Class of 2024 will be recognized for their outstanding achievement this summer.
A complete list of 2024 U.S. Presidential Scholars follows and is also available at http://www.ed.gov/psp.
TASIS Dorado Senior Owen Weber selected Jaime Ramirez as his most influential teacher, earning Mr. Jaime the prestigious Distinguished Teacher Recognition Award from the U.S. Department of Education.
