National Merit Honors Earned

Padua Academy is proud to celebrate two seniors, Mary Drost and Ava Wrzesien, for their achievements in the National Merit Scholarship Program.

Mary Drost ’26 has been named a National Merit Semifinalist, placing her among the top 1% of high school students nationwide. She will continue in the competition for a chance to be named a National Merit Finalist in February 2026. In addition to her academic success, Mary is a captain of cross country, indoor track, and outdoor track, serves on Student Council, leads as Volunteer Coordinator for Paws for the Cause, and is active in Campus Ministry.

Ava Wrzesien ’26 has been recognized as a Commended Student, an honor awarded to approximately 34,000 students nationwide for outstanding academic promise. Ava is dedicated to service through volunteer work at her local food bank and soon at a local animal shelter. She is also a member of Padua’s Mock Trial team and has contributed to several Padua & Salesianum theater productions.

Each year, the National Merit Scholarship Corporation recognizes students across the country whose academic excellence and PSAT/NMSQT scores from their junior year demonstrate exceptional potential and places them among the top scholars in the country.

We are #PaduaPROUD of Mary and Ava for their hard work, leadership, and commitment to excellence both in and out of the classroom.