Two Fox Lane students named National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists

BEDFORD, N.Y. - More than 1.3 million juniors entered the 2024 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, and less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors qualified as Semifinalists. Among them are Fox Lane High School seniors Nora Dooley and David Matz, who now have the opportunity to compete for one of 6,930 National Merit Scholarships worth nearly $26 million.

To advance to Finalist status, students must submit a detailed application that includes academic records, leadership, community involvement, honors, recommendations, and test scores confirming their PSAT performance.

“Nora Dooley loves learning,” said counselor Kristin Brown. “She approaches challenges with passion and persistence, striving for excellence in everything she does.”
Counselor Karen Deitch described Matz as “brilliant, modest, and deeply committed to both his learning and his community… what makes him truly remarkable is his character and the way he elevates those around him.”

Nora Dooley

A standout scholar-athlete, Nora plays varsity soccer, basketball, and track, and serves as president of the Youth in Action Club, which organizes community service events such as the upcoming Powderpuff Tournament for breast cancer awareness. She also serves on the President’s Junior Leadership Council at Northern Westchester Hospital.

She credits her “drive, self-motivation, and time management” for her academic success and hopes to study biology and economics in college. Nora’s favorite class is Precalculus Honors with Mr. Kimmerle, where she “learned to embrace the unknown” and value effort over perfection. Her advice to classmates: “Don’t put too much pressure on yourself—find enjoyment in learning.”

David Matz

David has distinguished himself through leadership in Jazz Band, Sinfonia, Tri-M Music Honor Society, Engineering Club, Science Olympiad, and student government. He attributes his success to strong time management and a genuine love of learning, especially in math and science.

His favorite class, AP Chemistry, “changed how I saw the world with how omnipresent and applicable it is.” David plans to major in chemical engineering and hopes to study abroad. His advice to peers: “Find what you’re passionate about. Take the class, join the club, try the hobby—you’ll learn what truly drives you.”

Information courtesy of Bedford Central School District.