Aspiring filmmaker and Interlake High School senior Ben Kadie has been named a U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts.

Kadie was one of 152 finalists selected to attend the YoungArts Week earlier this year. The week long conference, which took place in Miami in January, is considered to be one of the most prestigious arts competitions for young adults.

An extension of the YoungArts Week program, Kadie is one of 20 students being recognized in the arts category by the White House appointed Commission on Presidential Scholars. The award, based on artistic and academic achievements, is the highest scholastic honor available to graduating high school seniors.

As a presidential scholar, Kadie will receive a medal at the White House next month. Additionally, Kadie will have the opportunity to show his film, “The Painted Girl” at the Smithsonian American Art Museum on Sunday, June 16.

To learn more about Kadie’s work visit his website.