Braden Stone '26 selected as National Merit Scholarship Winner

Shorecrest senior Braden Stone '26 has been selected as a 2026 National Merit Scholarship winner. Chosen from a national pool of high-achieving finalists, Braden was named a recipient of a corporate-sponsored National Merit Scholarship through the 71st annual National Merit Scholarship Program. He is among approximately 700 graduating seniors nationwide to earn this distinction.

These scholarships are funded by corporations, company foundations, and individual donor endowments, and are awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and strong potential for success in college.

This recognition reflects years of sustained dedication, beginning with outstanding performance on the PSAT/NMSQT and culminating in a highly selective review process.

Braden, a Shorecrest Lifer and leader, will attend Northwestern University @northwesternu where he intends to study journalism. He is currently Co-Editor-in-Chief of The Chronicle, the Sports Broadcasting Club President, Student Council Vice President, and Co-President of the Jewish Student Union.