By Florida Catholic staff - Florida Catholic
FORT LAUDERDALE | St. Thomas Aquinas High School announced this September that 12 students have been named National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists, placing them among the top academic achievers in the nation.
This year’s Semifinalists are: Jad E. Abuhamda, Zora M. Angelovski, Nicholas J. DiMaggio, Fynn C. du Plessis, Joseph F. Eacobacci, Matthew J. Feinberg, Caden J. Kastler, Aline E. Kermis, Kenzie A. McAllister, Lila J. Pistorius, Cody J. Straka, and Ricardo L. Thorndike.
Each year, over 1.3 million high school juniors enter the National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the PSAT/NMSQT, with fewer than one percent earning the prestigious title of semifinalist.
“Achieving this level of recognition is a testament to our students’ dedication and the support of our faculty,” said Dr. Denise Aloma, principal. “We are committed to providing a challenging, innovative curriculum that prepares students to excel at the highest levels, both in college and in life.”
The 12 semifinalists will now continue in the competition for National Merit Finalist status and the opportunity to earn prestigious college scholarships.
St. Thomas Aquinas High's college-preparatory curriculum includes more than 30 Advanced Placement courses and the newly launched Cambridge program, making it the first Catholic high school in the nation to partner with Cambridge International.
Photographer: COURTESY PHOTO
Twelve students from St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Fort Lauderdale, have been named National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists for the 2025-26 academic year. In the photo are the semifinalists, including Jad E. Abuhamda, Zora M. Angelovski, Nicholas J. DiMaggio, Fynn C. du Plessis, Joseph Fr. Eacobacci, Matthew Feinberg, Caden J. Kastler, Aline E. Kermis, Kenzie A. McAllister, Lila J. Pistorius, Cody J. Straka, and Ricardo L. Thorndike.
