Ann Arbor Times

Eastern Michigan University has named Khatab Alkhashali, a resident of West Bloomfield, Michigan, as a Presidential Scholar for 2024. Alkhashali is one of 21 students chosen for this honor, which is awarded to first-year students who excel academically and show leadership and community commitment.

The EMU Presidential Scholarship is the university's most prestigious award, valued at up to $100,000. It covers full tuition, fees, and room and board for four years. Recipients are active members of The Honors College at EMU, engaging in critical thinking, community service, and leadership activities.

"Being a recipient of the Presidential Scholarship has been and continues to be a huge gift for me," said Alkhashali. "I am forever grateful that the weight of paying for college has been lifted off my shoulders."

Alkhashali graduated from West Bloomfield High School and plans to study mechanical engineering. He was president of his high school's robotics team and Middle Eastern North African Club. Additionally, he participated in the National Honor Society and track and field while volunteering with his local Parks and Recreation department.

Looking forward to his time at EMU, Alkhashali said: "It (scholarship) has allowed me to pursue my mechanical engineering major to the fullest extent and focus on my goals.” He plans to spend his four years at Eastern Michigan University being involved in the community.

Ann Eisenberg, dean of the Honors College at EMU, expressed enthusiasm about the new scholars: "We are excited to have such an impressive group of scholars join us at EMU and the Honors College this fall.”

The scholarship aligns with EMU's goal of promoting student success so they can achieve their academic objectives while impacting society positively.

Qualified high school seniors can apply for the scholarship during their senior year. For more details about the Presidential Scholarship or Eastern Michigan University itself, interested individuals can visit their respective websites.