The number of Casady seniors achieving semifinalist and now finalist status is a historic event for the School as we have not had this many semifinalists or finalists in more than 10 years. The seniors are Alex Coleman, Symon Ma, Jack Ryan, Calvin Tolbert, Jake Uhland, and Turner Waddell.

“These six Casady seniors are exemplary members of our Casady Community and embrace all that Casady has to offer,” said Nathan L. Sheldon, Head of Casady School. “I would like to congratulate these students for achieving this great honor through the National Merit Scholarship Program.”

The National Merit Scholarship Program is an academic competition for recognition and scholarships that began in 1955. High school students enter the National Merit Program by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®)—a test which serves as an initial screen of approximately 1.5 million entrants each year—and by meeting published program entry and participation requirements.

These academically talented high school seniors have an opportunity to continue in the competition for 7,500 National Merit Scholarships worth about $33 million that will be offered in the spring of 2017. All National Merit Scholarship winners will be selected from this group of finalists based on their abilities, skills, and accomplishments. To be considered for a National Merit Scholarship award, students must fulfill several requirements, including a proven academic track record, exhibiting leadership abilities, and participating in school and community activities. Nationally, about half of the finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship earning the Merit Scholar title.

Casady has graduated more than 80 National Merit Scholars between 2001 and 2016. Congratulations to Class of 2017 finalists, Alex, Symon, Jack, Calvin, Jake, and Turner.