EMU Today

YPSILANTI — Eastern Michigan University is proud to announce that Ypsilanti resident Ayesha Nadeem has been named a Presidential Scholar for 2024. Nadeem is one of only 21 exemplary students selected for this honor, awarded to top-performing first-year students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and a strong commitment to their communities.

“Being a Presidential Scholar means a lot more than just financial support,” said Nadeem. “It’s an incredible honor and a reflection of our dedication to academic excellence.”

The EMU Presidential Scholarship is the most prestigious award, valued at up to $100K. The scholarship covers full tuition, fees, and room and board for four years. Presidential Scholars are active and engaged members of The Honors College at EMU, complementing their academic college experience with further opportunities for critical thinking, community engagement, and leadership. The scholarship opportunity is aligned with EMU’s commitment to helping students achieve their educational goals while positively impacting the world.

Nadeem graduated from Central Academy and plans to pursue a degree in information assistance and cyber defense. In high school, Nadeem served as editor-in-chief of her school’s yearbook, captain of the Robotics Team, senior class vice president, co-founder of the Girl's STEM Club, Model United Nations, Crisis Committee head delegate, and director of Sisterhood for the Muslim Student Association. Nadeem also holds a second-degree black belt in Tang Soo Do. 

“We are excited to have such an impressive group of scholars join us at EMU this fall,” said Anne Eisenberg, dean of the Honors College. “They come from different backgrounds, cultures, and countries, but they all share a passion for learning, service, and leadership. They are an impressive bunch as well, with a mean SAT score of 1320 and an average high school GPA of 4.02.”

In her first year, Nadeem is excited to give back to her community on campus. “I plan to use this opportunity by being an active member of the Honors College, engaging fully in academic challenges, and giving back through mentoring and outreach for EMU.” 

Qualified students can apply for the Presidential Scholarship during their senior year of high school. For more information about the Presidential Scholarship, visit the webpage. 

About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, EMU is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves nearly 13,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. Visit the University’s rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website. To stay up to date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.