Foudray and Hamilton Earn National Merit Honors

Over 1.3 million juniors in about 21,000 high schools entered the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®) as an initial screen of program entrants. The nationwide pool of Semifinalists, representing less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors, includes the highest-scoring entrants in each state. The number of Semifinalists in a state is proportional to the state’s percentage of the national graduating seniors.

From over 16,000 Semifinalists, more than 15,000 are expected to advance to the Finalist level. All National Merit Scholarship winners will be selected from this group of Finalists. Merit Scholar designees are selected based on their skills, accomplishments, and potential for success in rigorous college studies.

National Merit Semifinalist Student Elias Foudray: Representing Holy Family with Pride

Elias Foudray, who attended St. Hubert’s before joining Holy Family, has earned the distinction of National Merit Semifinalist. A dedicated student and athlete, Elias participates in Math League, Knowledge Bowl, Football, and Track and Field. In addition to his school activities, he volunteers with Humanity Alliance, contributing to a mission that supports the food insecurity needs of the local community.

Elias familiarized himself with the types of questions on the test to prepare for the PSAT, ensuring he was ready for the unique format. Like Nate, he also balances the demands of an AP course load by making the most of his time at school, which helps to minimize homework. He emphasizes focusing on what’s within his control, a mindset that has helped him manage academic challenges.

Elias proudly represents Holy Family through his National Merit achievement, reflecting the school’s commitment to academic excellence. When asked what he’ll miss most after graduation, he shared that he will miss the excitement of playing in and watching sporting events at Holy Family.

The National Merit Commended Scholar program honors approximately 34,000 high-scoring PSAT/NMSQT students annually who rank in the top 2–3% but do not qualify as Semifinalists. These students receive a Letter of Commendation from their high schools, although they are not eligible to compete for the National Merit Scholarship. However, corporate sponsors and state agencies may consider them for special scholarships. This recognition is part of the broader National Merit Scholarship Program, which identifies around 50,000 high scorers each year, including the top 1% named Semifinalists and invited to apply for National Merit Scholarships.

National Merit Commended Student Nate Hamilton: A Passion for Learning and Leading

Nate Hamilton, a St. Joseph C-Stem School graduate in Waconia, is involved in an impressive array of activities at Holy Family. He participates in Cross Country, Robotics, Math League, Knowledge Bowl, Track and Field, and Band. Beyond his school commitments, Nate dedicates time to tutoring elementary school students and coaching a Lego Robotics team at St. Joe’s.

Reflecting on his PSAT preparation, Nate credits his coursework at Holy Family. “The teachers here are great because they teach you to learn for yourself. That way, you can really understand and retain the knowledge instead of memorizing facts only to lose them after the test,” he explains. As an AP student, Nate has learned to manage stress by setting aside time for non-academic pursuits, like running at cross-country practice or reading before bed. This balance, he says, helps prevent stress from building up.

Nate is especially proud to join the list of Holy Family students who have earned National Merit recognition. “Throughout high school, I’ve admired the dedication of other students who also achieved this honor, and I’m proud to join them,” he shares. Nate plans to major in chemistry, although he is still exploring college options. After graduation, he knows he’ll miss the sports and clubs he’s been a part of and the friends, teachers, and coaches who have made his high school journey so memorable.

Celebrating Excellence at Holy Family

Both Nate and Elias exemplify the dedication, resilience, and leadership values that define Holy Family Catholic High School. As National Merit Semifinalists, they have achieved a significant academic milestone, and we are incredibly proud of their hard work and accomplishments. Their stories inspire our community and highlight the exceptional opportunities Holy Family offers to help students thrive.