Riverbluff High School recognizes 2 students who are semifinalist in 2025 Presidential Scholar Program

Lexington, SC 04/24/2025 - River Bluff High School is proud to announce that John Graham Gardner IV and Raghav Pallapothu have been named semifinalists in the 2025 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, one of the nation’s most prestigious academic honors for high school seniors.

They are among only 10 students from South Carolina — and just over 600 nationwide — selected as semifinalists. Established in 1964, the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program recognizes students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership, service, and character.

“These two remarkable young men exemplify the very best of River Bluff,” said Principal Jacob Smith. “Their accomplishments reflect their dedication to excellence and the support of their families, teachers, and our school community. We are incredibly proud.”

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This distinction places Gardner and Pallapothu in elite company. Finalists will be named in May and invited to be recognized by the White House Commission on Presidential Scholars in Washington, D.C.

Other semifinalists from South Carolina include students from Ridge View, Nation Ford, Spring Valley, Myrtle Beach, Dutch Fork, Riverside, and the Governor’s School for the Arts & Humanities.

For River Bluff High School and Lexington School District One, having two students named semifinalists is a rare and significant achievement — a testament to the school’s mission of empowering students to lead with purpose, compassion, and intellect.

Raghav Pallapothu

John Graham Gardner IV