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Five seniors from Providence Catholic High School have been named Commended Students in the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program. The recognized students are Michael Jensen, Celia Minonne, Daniel Shusharin, Logan Walker, and Charles Murach.
The National Merit Scholarship Program is a nationwide academic competition that began in 1955. Each year, over 1.3 million students from about 21,000 high schools enter by taking the PSAT/NMSQT exam. Out of all entrants, only approximately 50,000 students with the highest scores qualify for recognition; around 34,000 receive the Commended Student distinction.
Principal Paul Houston commented on the achievement: “Providence Catholic is incredibly proud of these students and their accomplishments. Their recognition as Commended Students is a testament to their hard work, perseverance, and the strong academic foundation they’ve built here at Providence. We know they will continue to achieve great success in the years ahead.”
Michael Jensen has participated in several extracurricular activities including Math Team and Scholastic Bowl and has received distinctions such as third place in state math contests and AP Scholar with Distinction honors. He expressed gratitude for his teachers and family support: “PCHS has given me amazing teachers who have prepared me for college through their great teaching and by helping me build strong study skills. I would like to thank many members of the Providence community for motivating me and helping me strive to be my best, and my family for being such strong supporters.” He also highlighted how religion classes contributed to his spiritual growth.
Celia Minonne has been active in music ensembles, writing clubs, academic teams, and faith leadership roles at Providence Catholic High School. She holds awards including the Music Appreciation Award and Spanish State Seal of Biliteracy. Reflecting on her time at Providence she said: “Providence has given me endless opportunities to learn and achieve at the highest level possible. I have been surrounded by amazing teachers and peers from day one, instilling in me not only knowledge but also the importance of hard work, dedication, understanding, and our Catholic values. Providence has helped shape me these past four years into a thoughtful and capable adult.” She added that her faith was central to her experience.
Logan Walker balanced academics with athletics during his four years at Providence Catholic High School as a member of several sports teams while participating in service organizations such as SAVI (Students Against Violence Initiative). He shared: “My teachers have taught me many study habits that I’ll need for the future. The challenging coursework has helped me learn to manage my time and balance academics, athletics, and extracurriculars – all skills that will serve me well in college.” Walker also emphasized how participation in faith-centered activities deepened his spiritual life.
Charles Murach was involved with music groups like Band and Jazz Band as well as academic teams including Math Team and Coding Club. He earned honors such as Most Improved in Band along with First Honors across multiple years. On his experience he said: “PCHS has prepared me for college with its quality education and AP courses. I’m grateful to my parents for their constant encouragement and support throughout my time here.” He noted that spirituality played an important role during his high school years.
Daniel Shusharin participated actively on academic teams such as Math Team where he earned first place in Algebra 2 at a competition as a junior. Shusharin stated: “PCHS has taught me valuable skills in studying and time management. My time here has helped me see that education extends beyond the classroom – it’s about curiosity, balance, and learning to engage fully with the world.”
All five students are members of various honor societies at Providence Catholic High School.
