Four Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences and the Arts seniors are National Merit Scholarship Program Semifinalists.
The National Merit Scholarship Corp. announced today the names of the semifinalists in the 60th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. The students will have the opportunity to continue in the competition for 7,600 National Merit Scholarships worth about $33 million that will be offered next spring.
ASMSA students named Semifinalists are:
• Adam Bliss of North Little Rock, the son of Deborah Bliss and the late Tony Bliss;
• Mara Campbell of Little Rock, the daughter of Robin and Edward Campbell;
• Trib Ebarb of Sherwood, son of Abbey and Phil Ebarb; and
• Tuong Hoang of Fayetteville, son of Trinh Vu and Bang Hoang.
“It is appropriate at this time of year to stop and recognize these students for their performance on the PSAT,” said Bob Gregory, dean of academic affairs at ASMSA. “This recognition opens doors for scholarship opportunities that they would not otherwise have. I look forward to hearing about the interesting and exciting things these students will be doing in the future.”
To be considered for a Merit Scholarship award, Semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to advance to the Finalist standing, including a detailed scholarship application that includes information about a Semifinalist’s academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment, and honors and awards received.
Merit Scholar designees are selected on the basis of their skills, accomplishments and potential for success in rigorous college studies. The National Merit Scholarship Corp. is a not-for-profit organization that operates without government assistance. It was established in 1955 specifically to conduct the annual National Merit Scholarship Program.
Scholarships are underwritten by the corporation with its own funds and by approximately 440 business organizations and higher education institutions.