HENRY COUNTY SCHOOL SYSTEM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Susan Burton, Communications Director
Paris, TN – Brian Hollowell and Thomas Palmer, both seniors at Henry County High School, have been recognized as Commended Students in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program.
This recognition places them among the top academic performers nationwide for their results on the Preliminary SAT/National Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT).
Principal Michele Webb personally delivered the news to the students, recognizing their achievement.
“Brian and Thomas are two out of about 34,000 Commended Students across the country who are being recognized for their exceptional academic promise,” said Principal Webb. “Henry County High School is proud to be a part of their academic development, and we hope that this recognition will help them in their future educational opportunities as they apply to colleges and pursue scholarships.”
Commended Students are identified based on a nationally applied Selection Index score that is typically below the level required for Semifinalist standing. While they do not continue in the competition for National Merit Scholarships, their performance on the rigorous PSAT/NMSQT places them among the top 50,000 scorers of the approximately 1.5 million students who take the test each year.
The National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) awards this recognition to outstanding students who have demonstrated remarkable academic ability and potential for success in higher education.
Hollowell, son of Justin and Samantha Hollowell of Paris, plans to attend the University of Tennessee at Knoxville to pursue a degree in physics, followed by a postgraduate degree in astronomy and astrophysics. His long-term goal is to either conduct research at NASA or teach at the university level.
Palmer, son of Carleton and Bridget Palmer of Paris, intends to study mechanical engineering with a specialization in aerodynamics at Auburn University. He aspires to work in Formula 1 racing in the field of vehicle dynamics.
Photo: From left to right, Henry County High School principal, Dr. Michele Webb presents certificates to seniors Brian Hollowell and Thomas Palmer, to recognize their achievement as Commended Students in the Preliminary SAT/National Scholarship Qualifying Test.
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