Academy Alumnus Jan Vargas Nedvetsky Named 2025 U.S. Presidential Scholar

The Music Institute of Chicago is proud to share that Academy alumnus Jan Vargas Nedvetsky of Wilmette, Illinois has been named a 2025 U.S. Presidential Scholar, one of the nation’s highest honors for graduating high school seniors.

Jan is one of just 161 students nationwide selected this year for exceptional achievements in academics, the arts, leadership, service, and citizenship. Out of the 3.9 million students who graduated in 2025, only 6,400 were considered for this recognition.

The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964, by executive order of the President, to recognize and honor some of our nation's most distinguished graduating high school seniors. In 1979, the program was extended to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the visual, creative and performing arts. In 2015, the program was again extended to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical education fields. 

Each scholar also has the opportunity to honor an educator who made a significant impact on their journey. Jan chose to recognize Hans Jørgen Jensen of the Henry and Leigh Bienen School of Music in Evanston, Illinois, as his most influential teacher.

Since its inception, the program has honored approximately 8,600 students nationwide. Jan now joins this remarkable community of Presidential Scholars. 

"It took the dedicated support of my family and community (including MIC and the academy), and the guidance my teachers Hans Jensen and Oleksander Mycyk to receive this award," he shares.  "I could never have done this alone! I would like to give special thanks to the MIC community for the growth I have made as a person and musician during my years at the academy and beyond."

Congratulations to Jan on this incredible honor!