Deerfield-Windsor School proudly announces that senior Catharine “Cat” Darden has been named a 2026 Finalist in the prestigious National Merit Scholarship Program.

The National Merit Scholarship Program, conducted by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, recognizes the top high school students in the nation based on their academic achievement, standardized test performance, leadership, and extracurricular involvement. Of the more than 1.3 million students who entered the 2026 competition by taking the PSAT/NMSQT, fewer than 1% advanced to Finalist standing.

To become a Finalist, students must demonstrate an outstanding academic record throughout high school, earn high SAT or ACT scores that confirm their PSAT performance, receive a recommendation from their school principal, and submit a detailed scholarship application highlighting achievements, leadership, and community involvement. Deerfield-Windsor’s Upper School Director, Lindsey Kotter, shared “We are so proud of Cat!

This is not an honor that comes without the preparation and work that others do not see outside of the normal school day. Cat has worked hard for this achievement, and is so deserving of thi  recognition. I can’t wait to see what she does with her talent. ”

National Merit Finalists are now eligible to compete for National Merit Scholarships, which will be awarded later this spring.

Please join us in congratulating her on this exceptional achievement.