Ann Arbor Times

Eastern Michigan University has named Sydney Winfree of Saline, Michigan, as a member of its 2025 Presidential Scholar class. Winfree is among 20 incoming first-year students selected for this distinction, a group recognized for strong academic performance. The average scores for the cohort are an ACT of 28, SAT of 1280, and a GPA of 4.11.

The EMU Presidential Scholarship covers up to $100,000 in tuition, fees, and four years of room and board. Recipients become part of The Honors College, which offers additional opportunities for academic growth, community service, and leadership.

Ann Eisenberg, dean of The Honors College, said: “The Honors College is proud to recognize our 20 new Presidential Scholars for their many accomplishments in high school. They not only achieved a high level of academic success, but they also embraced opportunities for leadership and community engagement. We expect that they will make the most of their time at EMU and will make an impact on the institution. We are looking forward to celebrating their future accomplishments and successes.”

Winfree highlighted the personal significance of receiving the scholarship: “As the oldest of three daughters, college expenses are no easy feat. This scholarship allows my parents to help my two other sisters, instead of all three of us having to pay for college,” she said. “It's a blessing to have this opportunity, and it warms my soul for others to see me as a leader and as a person who has potential.”

At Saline High School, Winfree completed advanced placement courses with a GPA of 3.989. She was active in science olympiad as an event leader in experimental design and ecology. Her volunteer work included serving at the Humane Society of Huron Valley. Between 2021 and 2023, she founded The 90-Year-Old Teenager Crochet Shop while also working in early childhood development and food service.

Winfree plans to major in clinical laboratory sciences at EMU and pursue a career as a physician assistant specializing in pediatrics after graduation.

“EMU was the best choice for me,” Winfree said. “I plan to take full advantage of research opportunities to build new skills and strengthen my resume. EMU’s advising coordinators have been lifesavers, keeping me on track with both my major requirements and prerequisites for PA school.”

The Presidential Scholarship is available to qualified high school seniors who apply during their final year.

Founded in 1849, Eastern Michigan University serves nearly 13,000 students across undergraduate through doctoral programs offered by its various colleges.