Matthew Lehning, a Phoenixville Area High School senior, has been selected by the school's faculty and staff to receive the Rensselaer Medal and a $60,000 scholarship to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, according to district community relations coordinator Sandra Claus.

For over 90 years the Rensselaer Medal and scholarship has been awarded to whip smart high school students who have distinguished themselves in mathematics and science. 

“The Rensselaer Medal is a wonderful way to pay tribute to the high school students who have achieved excellence in math and science,” said Paul Marthers, Rensselaer vice president for enrollment and dean of undergraduate and graduate admissions. 

“The Rensselaer Medal winners represent the next generation of leaders, scientists, innovators, artists, scholars, game designers, architects, humanitarians, and entrepreneurs.”

The medal is the oldest prize of its kind in the United States and is awarded at more than 2,000 high schools throughout North America, Latin America, Europe, and Asia. 

Matt will be part of the freshman class in the fall of 2013, with a dual major in Mechanical Engineering and Design, Innovation and Society. Good luck Matt, and congratulations.