BETTENDORF, IOWA (September 29, 2026) — Rivermont Collegiate seniors Charles Archer, Lachlan Gleason, and Nghi Ho have been named Semifinalists in the 2027 National Merit® Scholarship Program. They are among more than 16,000 Semifinalists nationwide, chosen from more than 1.2 million juniors who took the 2025 PSAT/NMSQT®. Semifinalists make up less than one percent of US high school seniors.
Lachlan Gleason
"Being named a National Merit Semifinalist is a remarkable achievement and a testament to exceptional academic ability, dedication, and perseverance," said Richard Wiley, Interim Head of School at Rivermont Collegiate.
"These students are among the highest-scoring entrants in the state and represent less than one percent of US high school seniors. We are incredibly proud of Charles, Lachlan, and Nghi, and grateful for the way they represent our school community."
Nghi Ho
To advance to Finalist standing, each student will submit a scholarship application that includes an essay, their academic record, SAT® or ACT® scores, and a school endorsement. About 95 percent of Semifinalists are expected to become Finalists, who will be announced in February.
"It's exciting to see Charles, Lachlan, and Nghi receive this recognition," said Jill Beinborn, College Counselor at Rivermont Collegiate.
"I've had the opportunity to work with each of them as they've navigated high school and started the college application process. They are all hardworking, talented students who bring their unique strengths and personalities to our school. Being named National Merit Semifinalists is a wonderful accomplishment, but what makes me most proud is seeing them continue to challenge themselves. I look forward to seeing where their hard work takes them as they move on to college and the next chapter of their lives."
Charles Archer
About 6,700 National Merit Scholarships, worth about $24 million in total, will be awarded in spring 2027. For more information about the National Merit Scholarship Program, visit nationalmerit.org.
About Rivermont Collegiate
Ranked the N° 1 private school in the Quad Cities by Niche, Rivermont Collegiate is the region's only independent, nonsectarian, college-preparatory school serving students from preschool through grade twelve.
Founded in 1884, Rivermont offers small classes, a globally-focused curriculum, and individualized college counseling that guides each student toward top-tier colleges and universities. The Class of 2026's 24 graduates earned more than $5.1 million in merit scholarships. For more information, visit RivermontCollegiate.org.
Rivermont Collegiate empowers academically driven students by cultivating their intellect, character, and creativity.
