Ann Arbor Times

Eastern Michigan University has announced Caroline Buxton as a Presidential Scholar for 2024. Originally from New Hampshire and raised in Northwest Arkansas, Buxton is among 21 students selected for this honor, which recognizes top-performing first-year students for their academic excellence, leadership, and community commitment.

"I'm incredibly excited to be a Presidential Scholar," said Buxton. “It can feel impossible to succeed financially as a creative. With this scholarship, I can explore my artistic interests and take full advantage of the college experience. I'm especially looking forward to studying abroad, participating in theatre, and joining clubs."

The EMU Presidential Scholarship is valued at up to $100,000 and covers full tuition, fees, and four-year room and board. Recipients are part of The Honors College at EMU, engaging in critical thinking, community service, and leadership activities.

Buxton graduated from Siloam Springs High School and plans to major in communication, media, and theatre arts comprehensive at EMU. In high school, Buxton was involved in track and field, volleyball, the National Honor Society, and TheatreSquared. With aspirations in scriptwriting and voice acting, Buxton aims for a career in audio description for the visually impaired.

Looking forward to immersing themselves in EMU’s theatre arts programs: “Art forms like theatre, creative writing, and animation shaped me as a person. There’s nothing more fulfilling to me than a story well told,” said Buxton.

Ann Eisenberg, dean of the Honors College stated: "We are excited to welcome this outstanding group of scholars to EMU and the Honors College this fall," noting their diverse perspectives representing various backgrounds.

Prospective students can apply for the scholarship during their senior year of high school.

Eastern Michigan University was founded in 1849 as Michigan's second oldest public university. It serves nearly 13,000 students with more than 300 majors offered across its various colleges. National publications frequently recognize EMU for its diversity and commitment to applied education.