EMU Today

YPSILANTI —  Eastern Michigan University is proud to announce that Benjamin Schuessler, a resident of Livonia, Michigan, has been named a Presidential Scholar for 2024. Schuessler 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.

“I thought a full ride was completely out of the realm of possibility for me,” said Schuessler. “That is why the scholarship I received is not only a testament to how much I have grown as a person, but also to the many people and experiences that have allowed me to become the person I am today.”

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 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.

Schuessler graduated from Winston Churchill High School and plans to pursue a degree in biochemistry with a minor in music performance. In high school, Schuessler was involved with the National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, Math National Honor Society, German club, cross country, swimming, track, and non-profit organization Hearts, Hands, and Voices. After graduation, Schuessler plans to pursue his master’s degree with the goal of discovering new treatments for cancer and tuberculosis. 

“We are excited to have such an impressive group of scholars join us at EMU this fall,” said Ann 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.”

Beyond his studies, Schuessler is taking lessons with EMU organ professor Michael Burkhardt, who Schuessler said he has been studying under since 2020. “Being able to work with him is one of the reasons I came to EMU, and the scholarship has allowed me to focus on building my musicianship stress-free.”

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.