Dr. Paul Jones, Principal of Pomperaug High School, announced that Sohan Nelakudity has been named a National Merit Semifinalist in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program. In addition, Eli Hornberger, Curran Hegde, William Gracer, Bahar Uludag, and Kevin McKeown were recognized as National Merit Commended Students.

Photo L-R: Dr. Paul Jones, Principal of Pomperaug High School, Sohan Nelakudity, Curran Hegde, Kevin McKeown, Eli Hornberger, Bahar Ululdag, and William Gracer.

This prestigious honor recognizes academically exceptional seniors across the country. Sohan is among more than 16,000 Semifinalists nationwide in the program’s 71st year—representing less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors. He earned this distinction through his outstanding performance on the 2024 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®).

To advance to Finalist standing, each Semifinalist must submit a detailed scholarship application that includes academic records, participation in school and community activities, leadership experiences, employment history, and honors received. Applicants must also submit an essay and achieve SAT or ACT scores that confirm their earlier performance.

Nationwide, approximately 95% of Semifinalists are expected to advance to Finalist standing, with about half earning National Merit Scholarships valued at nearly $26 million in total awards. Scholarship winners will be announced in April 2026.

While Commended Students do not continue in the competition for scholarships, their achievement reflects outstanding academic performance and places them among a select group of high-achieving seniors across the country. Their recognition highlights consistent academic strength, dedication to learning, and the pursuit of excellence at the highest levels.

“We are proud to see our students recognized at the national level. This accomplishment reflects their hard work and the dedication of our teachers, staff, and families. Region 15 thrives because of the strong partnership between our schools and community, and we celebrate this achievement together,”
— Joshua Smith, Superintendent of Region 15 Schools

“Sohan’s recognition as a National Merit Semifinalist is a testament to his commitment and academic excellence. We are equally proud of Eli, Curran, William, Bahar, and Kevin for being recognized as Commended Students. We are proud to have them represent Pomperaug High School and know they will continue to achieve great success. Their accomplishments are one we share with our entire school community.”
— Dr. Paul Jones, Principal, Pomperaug High School

Congratulations to all of our National Merit honorees for representing Pomperaug High School and Region 15 Schools with distinction!