EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Two students from Rhode Island got national recognition in being named U.S. Presidential Scholars on Thursday.

The Rhode Islanders in this year's cohort are Ryan Lukowicz, a senior at North Kingstown Senior High School, and Margaret Catherine Lauder, a senior at Portsmouth High School.

Lukowicz and Lauder were among 161 seniors throughout the country listed in the program's 60th class of students.

State leaders and their respective superintendents congratulated Lukowicz and Lauder.

"Ryan and Margaret have demonstrated remarkable academic prowess and leadership throughout their educational careers," Gov. Dan McKee said. "This prestigious designation is well-deserved and a testament to their hard work and the support of Rhode Island educators. I share my sincere congratulations with Ryan and Margaret and wish them the best in their bright futures."

R.I. Education Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green said both students "have set a standard for their peers to follow."

"Having both served on RIDE’s Student Advisory Council, these U.S. Presidential Scholars have demonstrated a deep commitment to not only their academic success, but enhancing the educational experience for all Rhode Island students," she continued. "As Ryan and Margaret continue to shine brightly on their path forward, we are proud to celebrate their accomplishments and the collective efforts that have propelled them to such heights. Congratulations!"

The program was created by then-U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson via an executive order in 1964.

According to the U.S. Department of Education, it was expanded 15 years later to "recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the visual, creative and performing arts." A second expansion happened nine years ago to "recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical education fields."