Shai Cohen ('14) of Bergenfield, New Jersey was named a recipient of the Jefferson Scholarship at the University of Virginia.  Awarded solely on the basis of merit, Jefferson Scholarships provide full financial support for four years of study at U.Va.

Jefferson Scholars undergo a rigorous multi-stage selection process. Candidates must first be nominated by their high schools for their demonstrated excellence and exceptional potential in the areas of leadership, scholarship and citizenship.  They are then interviewed by one of 58 Jefferson Scholars Regional Selection Committees.  

Shai was selected as a regional finalist from the New York City, New York region and was invited to travel to Charlottesville to participate in the last stage of the competition, engaging in a series of activities, including essay and mathematics examinations, seminars led by University faculty members, as well as a final round of interviews conducted by U.Va. alumni, faculty and administrators.

This year 1,600 students were nominated by their high schools.  Additional finalists were selected by U.Va.'s Office of Undergraduate Admission, which reviews the applications of all students.  The 36 Jefferson Scholars selected this year represent the largest cohort in the program's 34-year history and come from 22 states and two countries. They join a community of 92 rising second-, third- and fourth-year scholars, who are active and visible leaders at the University of Virginia.

"These are individuals of diverse backgrounds, interests and passions, with varying worldviews developed from different life experiences," Jimmy Wright, president of the Jefferson Scholars Foundation, said. "Jefferson Scholars are linked together by a common commitment to being leaders, scholars and citizens, and they are passionate about making their communities better places, each in his or her own way."