THOMASVILLE- Brookwood School is proud to announce that two members of the Class of 2025, Emma Rhodes and Ben Watts, have been named Finalists in the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program. This prestigious recognition places them among the top students in the nation and is a testament to their outstanding academic achievement and dedication to excellence.

As Finalists, Rhodes and Watts have advanced from the Semifinalist stage and will now compete for National Merit Scholarships, which will be awarded this spring. Their selection as Finalists is based on their exceptional performance on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) and their continued demonstration of academic excellence, leadership, and involvement in school and community activities.

“In my time as Director of College Counseling, I have had the privilege of working with many impressive Brookwood students, but until now, we had yet to celebrate a National Merit Finalist,” said Director of College Counseling Dr. Jeremy Kasten. “This year, we are proud to have not just one, but two, from the 36 members of the small but mighty Class of 2025.”

“Their achievement speaks not only to their individual excellence but also to the overall strength of this class. Having taught both of them multiple times, I can confidently say they embody a rare blend of natural ability, hard work, intrinsic motivation, and intellectual curiosity. I couldn’t be prouder of these two deserving honorees,” Kasten stated.

The National Merit Scholarship Program, established in 1955, honors students who show exceptional academic potential. Approximately 15,000 Finalists have been named nationwide, representing the highest-achieving high school seniors. Finalists will be considered for more than $28 million in National Merit Scholarships based on their abilities, skills, and accomplishments.

Brookwood School congratulates Rhodes and Watts on this outstanding accomplishment and looks forward to celebrating their continued success.