News - Two Carver Center grads become Presidential Scholars in the Arts

As 2007 George Washington Carver Center of Arts and Technology graduates Scott G. and Vera F. posed for a picture with President George W. Bush on the White House lawn, they realized that their years of hard work had all built to this moment.

Vera and Scott were among the 20 students across the nation who were recognized as 2007 Presidential Scholars in the Arts, an honor that earned them weeks of programs and opportunities for growth, from which they emerged even more passionate about their commitment to art.

“We were one of only six schools in the country to have more than one scholar,” says Carver Principal Karen Steele. “My very first thought was that this was a Carver first. We’ve had scholars in the past, but never more than one. This is an incredible thing for Maryland, and so great for Vera and Scott their senior year.”

The Commission on Presidential Scholars, appointed by President Bush, chooses 121 high school seniors - one female and one male from each state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and U.S families living abroad - who should be honored for their academic excellence and dedication to success. In addition, the Commission also chooses the 20 Presidential Scholars in the Arts who have displayed an outstanding proclivity in a specific discipline.

Artwork by Vera F., 2007 Presidential Scholar in the Arts and 2007 graduate of the George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology

Scott and Vera had to pass through several levels of adjudication before finally winning their titles. First, they were selected as two of the 150 youngARTS finalists. YoungARTS is a talent search program sponsored by the National Foundation for the Advancement in the Arts (NFAA) designed to encourage students to pursue their art. They enjoyed an all-expenses-paid trip to Miami where they attended master classes taught by distinguished and well-known artists, enjoyed student performances and showcases by each discipline, and interacted with their peers.

The students interviewed with a panel of judges who would determine the prize that they would receive at the end of the week. Vera and Scott both received the Silver Award and $5000.

“Everyone gets a cash price at the end of the week, but it’s really not about the money,” Vera says. “I met so many cool kids. In ten years I won’t remember how much money I got; I’ll remember how much I enjoyed the experience.”

Fifty finalists were then nominated to be considered as Presidential Scholars in the Arts after filling out applications and sending in their transcripts. Vera and Scott went on to make the final cut, as two of only three winners in the country to be recognized in the field of visual arts.

“When [Vera and I] got the news, it was the most amazing feeling,” Scott says. “I kept checking the NFAA web site during school over and over. During class, Vera called across the hall to say that we got it!”

The Scholars were honored during National Recognition Week (NRW), held in Washington, D.C from June 23-27, where they met with President Bush and Margaret Spellings, the U.S Secretary of Education. They attended seminars and meetings, reunited with old friends they met in Miami, and stayed up late in the Georgetown dorms. In addition, Vera had the “really surreal” opportunity to exhibit several of her works in the Smithsonian National American Art Museum.

Artwork by Vera F., 2007 Presidential Scholar in the Arts and 2007 graduate of the George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology

“Not a lot of kids get credit for their hard work,” Vera says. “I’m so lucky and it really makes you feel like what you’re doing is right. It’s an affirmation to pursue what you love.”

“I didn’t know what to expect [at National Recognition Week],” Scott adds. “There was increased unity with the other arts winners. I was able to get to know people better and make new friendships from all over the country.”

Scott fostered an interest in art from an early age, displaying an unusual level of creativity. He enrolled in art classes through elementary and middle school upon his parents’ encouragement.

Scott’s parents also encouraged him to submit a portfolio and apply to Carver. Once there, he says he increased the intensity of his studies, continuing the school’s “legacy” when he applied to the youngARTS program, as is encouraged.

He specializes in oil painting, drawing, and sculpture, but says he also enjoys photography, music, and film.

“I try not to limit myself with art. I love that you can put into it all aspects of your life,” he says. “[Attending Carver] opened up a new side of me that has become almost my whole identity now.”

That identity is one that Vera fully understands. She as well has been practicing drawing, figure sculpting, and figure painting rigorously since she enrolled at Carver upon a teacher’s recommendation. Also a member of Synergy, Carver’s literary magazine, Vera cites the “invaluable experience” of becoming a Presidential Scholar as verification that she devoted herself to something worthwhile.

In the fall, she plans to attend Mt. Holyoke College in Massachusetts where she will “take a step back” from art.

“I want to pursue other passions while still continuing to take art classes on the side,” Vera says. “I will still expand my art, but I need to figure out my other interests.”

Scott however, will continue with art full speed ahead at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, a 300-student college in Philadelphia, where he admires the prestigious sculpture program.

“Vera and Scott are a constant source of pride for Carver,” says Principal Steele. “They represent all of our students through their focus, commitment, and love for what they are here to study. They are role models for all who know them and they are exemplars of the qualities looked for in a Presidential Scholar.”

Story by Alissa G., a summer intern in the Baltimore County Public Schools Office of Communications and a rising senior at Pikesville High School. All artwork by Vera F.

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