Eastern Michigan University names Emma Main 2024 Presidential Scholar

Main joins roster of 21 exemplary students in spotlight series

Presidential scholar Emma Main

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

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. 

"Receiving this scholarship allows me to focus on the importance of leadership, collaboration, and teamwork," said Main. "I am majoring in nursing, and having time to focus on these things is crucial when working in healthcare to ensure that the environment is safe, inclusive, and productive." 

Main graduated from Salem High School and is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree to start a career as a registered nurse and potentially become a nurse practitioner. In high school, Main volunteered at local running events in her community hosted by the Running Fit organization, sharing her passion for running and helping others in the sport. Main also participated in the P-Cep Pal’s club ​​during her senior year, which allowed students to form relationships with other students with disabilities and create close friends. Additionally, Main was a leader in HOSA– Future Health Professionals. 

Main is currently focusing on her education and getting involved at EMU. "So far, I've joined the EMU Student Nurse Association and am interested in becoming a board member later on," said Main. “I would love to continue working with students who have disabilities and am currently looking into some opportunities."

"We are excited to have such an impressive group of scholars join us at EMU and the Honors College 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, and they have all pledged to give back to EMU through their work in the classroom, student organizations, and campus offices.”

The EMU Presidential Scholarship aligns with the University's commitment to promoting student success and engagement so that students can achieve their academic goals while positively impacting the world.

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.

October 23, 2024

Written by:
Ellie Cartwright

Media Contact:
Melissa Thrasher
mthrashe@emich.edu
734-487-4401