BOSTON -- Boston University awarded 12 students among the graduating seniors of the Catholic high schools in the Archdiocese of Boston four-year, full-tuition scholarships through the Cardinal Medeiros Scholarship Program at a May 20 ceremony at BU's George Sherman Union.

Cardinal Seán P. O'Malley and Boston University President Robert Brown presented the students with their scholarships, cumulatively valued at over $2.2 million.

Medeiros Scholars are chosen for their academic achievements, demonstrated leadership skills and contributions to their schools and communities. The scholars were selected by a two-person committee composed of representatives from BU admissions and the Archdiocese of Boston. The scholarships have been awarded every year since 1986 and are named in memory of Cardinal Humberto Medeiros, who served as Archbishop of Boston from 1970 until his death in 1983.

By the time these students graduate, the university will have enrolled a total of 396 scholars, representing a contribution of over $44 million from Boston University to the greater Boston area and the students of the archdiocese.

This year's Medeiros Scholars are:

Carli F. DiMeo, St. Mary's Jr-Sr High School

Grace M. Ferri, Austin Preparatory School

Eric D. Loehle, Bishop Fenwick High School

Richard J. McAllister, Archbishop Williams High School

Mary K. McCarthy, Academy of Notre Dame

Nicholas T. Neville, Archbishop Williams High School

Collette A. O'Connor, Fontbonne Academy

Sheila M. Orechia, Ursuline Academy

Rebekah Paxton, Academy of Notre Dame

David G. Souza, Saint John's Preparatory School

Michael A. Tomaino, Catholic Memorial High School

Kimberly M. Tran, Pope John XXIII Central High School.