by Malcolm Butler
Cedar Creek senior Luke Waldron has been named a National Merit semifinalist.
Over 1.3 million juniors from about 21,000 high schools nationwide entered the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2023 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.
National Merit Semifinalists represent less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors and include the highest-scoring students within the state. Waldron scored a 33 on his ACT.
“We are so proud of Luke for being named a National Merit Semifinalist,” said Head of School Connie Bradford. “This outstanding accomplishment highlights his hard work, determination, and academic excellence. We look forward to seeing him continue to excel and achieve great things in the future.”
The son of Lance and Beth Waldron, Luke is among approximately 16,000 students who have advanced to this level. These academically talented high school seniors have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 6,870 National Merit Scholarships worth nearly $26 million.
“I am beyond grateful to receive this honor,” said Waldron. “I have always had a love for learning that my parents have fostered and encouraged. There are also so many teachers that have played a vital role in my education, and I am so grateful for each one of them.”
Waldron is a member of the Foreign Language Club, Drama Club, FCA Leadership Council, and National Honor Society.
Finalists are chosen after they submit a detailed scholarship application, in which they provide information about their academic record, participation in school and community service activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment and honors and awards received.
They must have an outstanding academic record throughout high school and be endorsed and recommended by a high school official.
