Wellesley Student Katherine Liu is a 2023 Presidential Scholar

New England Conservatory Preparatory School (NEC Prep) announces that student Katherine Liu has been named a 2023 Presidential Scholar in the Arts. Katherine, a pianist and resident of Wellesley, MA, is one of 161 high school seniors recognized by the White House Commission on Presidential Scholars for accomplishments in academics, the arts, and career and technical education fields.

A senior at Wellesley High School, Katherine studies with pianist and Co-Chair of NEC’s Piano Department, HaeSun Paik. Katherine will be a freshman at Harvard College this coming fall, and she will continue her piano studies under Professor Paik.

Katherine Liu says, “Becoming a Presidential Scholar in the Arts means using my platform to not only share music with more people but also to enhance civic engagement with music. The arts play an important role in generating creativity, innovation, and empathy in our society, and I am incredibly privileged to have experienced the magic of music education firsthand. The education I received at NEC Prep has helped me become the musician and person I am today. From my individual lessons with Professor HaeSun Paik to participating in piano workshops to collaborating as a soloist with one of NEC Prep’s orchestras, every moment of my time at Prep has been a formative experience.”

Adam Calus, Director of NEC Prep, adds, “All of us at NEC are incredibly proud of Katherine’s achievements. From her hard work in the practice room to her dynamic performances on stage, it is always a joy to watch her perform and continue to grow as a musician. We look forward to seeing what the future holds for her as an artist.”

The artistic relationship Katherine enjoys with her piano professor, HaeSun Paik, is close to her heart. Katherine says, “Professor Paik has changed my life. Not only has she helped me refine my craftsmanship at the piano, but she has also gifted me the tools to breathe life into the music I play. From our conversations about grief to our discussions about the historical impact of the Napoleonic Wars on Beethoven’s music, Professor Paik’s mentorship has infinitely deepened my understanding of the significance that music holds as a story-telling medium.”

In 2022, Katherine was named a Davidson Institute Fellow Laureate, the highest honor the Institute awards, and won a $50,000 scholarship. The Davidson Institute recognizes, nurtures, and supports profoundly intelligent young people and provides opportunities for them to develop their talents to make a positive difference.

Katherine also placed first in the 2022 Arthur Fraser International Piano Competition, the Harvard Musical Association High School Competition, and the Bellagrande International Piano Competition. She was also a featured performer with the Boston Pops Orchestra under the baton of Maestro Keith Lockhart.

About the 2023 U.S. Presidential Scholars

U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona announced the 59th class of U.S. Presidential Scholars, recognizing 161 high school seniors for their accomplishments in academics, the arts, and career and technical education fields.

The White House Commission on Presidential Scholars selects scholars annually based on their academic success, artistic and technical excellence, essays, school evaluations and transcripts, as well as a demonstrated commitment to community service and leadership.

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 who demonstrate exceptional talent in the visual, literary and performing arts. In 2015, the program was again extended to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical education fields.

More information: https://www.ed.gov/news/press-releases/us-department-education-announces-161-students-be-honored-2023-us-presidential-scholars