Russellville Students Named National Merit Finalists in 2026 Competition
Russellville High School seniors Ian Warnick, Will Stump, and Keegan Fuller have been named National Merit Finalists in the prestigious 2026 National Merit® Scholarship Competition, one of the highest academic honors a high school student can receive.
The National Merit Scholarship Program, conducted by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC), began in 1955 and recognizes the nation’s top academic achievers. Students initially qualify based on their performance on the PSAT/NMSQT, which serves as the screening exam for more than 1.3 million entrants nationwide. Fewer than one percent of high school seniors in each state are named Semifinalists, and the vast majority of those advance to Finalist standing.
As Finalists, these students are now eligible to compete for approximately 6,930 National Merit Scholarships to be awarded in 2026. Scholarship opportunities include $2,500 National Merit Scholarships, corporate-sponsored awards, and college-sponsored scholarships supported by universities across the country.
Selection is based on a comprehensive review of each student’s academic record, school recommendation, essay, extracurricular involvement, and test scores. About half of all Finalists nationwide will ultimately be named Merit Scholars.
This outstanding accomplishment reflects Ian, Will, and Keegan’s dedication, academic excellence, and commitment to achievement. Russellville School District proudly celebrates their success and looks forward to their continued accomplishments.