The Owensboro Times
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By John Kirkpatrick
February 15, 2025 | 12:05 am
Updated February 15, 2025 | 1:29 pm
Thre local high school seniors have been recognized as finalists in the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Competition.
Owensboro Catholic High School seniors Patrick Hauke and Jax Wethington earned the honor, along with Ellie Haleman, a former Catholic student who now attends The Gatton Academy.
“Patrick and Jax have exemplified hard work, dedication, and excellence in their academic pursuits,” said Natalie Hayden, director of advancement at Owensboro Catholic. “This achievement reflects not only their individual commitment to academic excellence but also the support of our dedicated faculty, staff, and families who continue to inspire and guide them along their educational journey.”
Dr. Lynette Breedlove, director of The Gatton Academy, also praised the achievements of Haleman and her fellow finalists.
“We are incredibly proud of our scholars. Being recognized as National Merit Finalists is quite an accomplishment,” Breedlove said. “We are grateful for the support they received from their sending school districts in preparing them for the PSAT/NMSQT and appreciate their continued partnerships.”
These individuals are among approximately 15,000 students around the country to move on to the next portion of the scholarship competition. Winners will be announced beginning in March.
The selection process for scholarship winners involves evaluating information about finalists obtained from both students and their high schools. Included are the finalist’s academic record (course load and difficulty level, depth and breadth of subjects studied, and grades earned); PSAT/NMSQT scores; the student’s essay; demonstrated leadership and contributions to school and community activities; and the school official’s written recommendation and characterization of the finalist.
The National Merit Scholarship Program is an annual academic competition among high school students for recognition and college scholarships. The program is conducted by National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC), a not-for-profit organization that operates without government assistance.
Students enter the program by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT), which serves as an initial screen of over 1.3 million entrants each year, and by meeting published program entry and participation requirements.
February 15, 2025 | 12:05 am
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