New Jersey: Jismi Mathew, a Keralite student from East Hanover, New Jersey, has been named a 2026 U.S. Presidential Scholar, one of the nation's highest honours for graduating high school students. Recognised for her academic achievements, technical expertise, leadership and commitment to community service, her selection is a proud moment for the Indian-American and Keralite communities.
Jismi is among the 20 students selected in the Career and Technical Education (CTE) category as part of the 161 Presidential Scholars announced by the U.S. Department of Education on October 27. More than 6,700 students were eligible for consideration, with the final selection made from a nationwide pool of candidates and semifinalists.
Jismi graduated from the Academy for Computer and Information Sciences at Morris County School of Technology in New Jersey, where she distinguished herself through academic excellence and leadership. In recognition of her performance, she received the school's Computer Science Academy Scholar Award. She was also selected to address her graduating class during the high school commencement ceremony.
She has earned recognition for her achievements in technology. She secured first place in the New Jersey Technology Student Association's Webmaster Competition and was named to the Dean's List at County College of Morris for the Fall 2025 semester. Her areas of expertise include web development, user experience design and digital media.
Beyond academics, Jismi has demonstrated a strong commitment to community service. She has contributed her technical expertise to website development and digital initiatives for nonprofit and community organisations, including FOKANA (Federation of Kerala Associations in North America) and the Father Mathew Kunnath Charitable Foundation.
Jismi has also been actively involved in student leadership and initiatives encouraging greater participation by girls in technology. She served as Co-President of her school's Girls Who Code organisation, which encourages and empowers girls to pursue opportunities in computer science and technology. She also served as Student Council Treasurer.
Another notable initiative was the Computer Science and STEM Family Night, which she launched in 2023 at East Hanover Central Elementary School. The programme introduces young students and their families to science, technology, engineering and mathematics through interactive educational activities. Following its positive reception, the initiative developed into an annual event.
Established in 1964 by executive order of the US President, the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program recognises some of the nation's most distinguished graduating high school seniors. The programme honours students for their academic achievements, artistic and technical accomplishments, leadership and contributions to their schools and communities.
Following her high school graduation, Jismi is pursuing a degree in Computer Science at the Albert Dorman Honors College of the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), continuing her academic journey in technology and innovation.
Jismi is the daughter of Linto Mathew and Jinu Mathew, residents of East Hanover, New Jersey. She has two siblings, Judith and Jason.
Her selection as a U.S. Presidential Scholar is a source of pride for the Keralite community in the United States. Her dedication to academic excellence, technological innovation, leadership and community service offers inspiration to young students, particularly those aspiring to careers in science and technology.