Joseph Solorzano-Ruiz a senior at Calhoun High School in the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District has been named a 2026-27 Long Island Scholar-Artist in recognition of his exceptional accomplishments in both academics and the arts.

Presented in partnership with Newsday, the Long Island Scholar-Artist Awards recognize high school seniors from across Long Island who demonstrate outstanding achievement in both their academic studies and chosen artistic discipline. Solorzano-Ruiz is one of just 20 students selected for this year’s honor, representing one of five disciplines: Dance, Media Arts, Music, Theater and Visual Arts.

As part of the yearlong recognition, Newsday features two Scholar-Artists each month throughout the 2026-27 school year, highlighting their accomplishments through profiles and photographs in print and online.

Solorzano-Ruiz will also be invited to attend the 2027 Scholar-Artist Awards ceremony at the Tilles Center for the Performing Arts in the spring. In addition, he will receive a $500 scholarship supported by the Arts Reach Fund at The New York Community Trust Long Island.