Regina Dominican Seniors Catherine Conway and Kourtney Schuenzel Named Commended Scholars in 2027 National Merit Scholarship Program

Wilmette, IL - Regina Dominican High School is proud to announce that seniors Catherine Conway and Kourtney Schuenzel have been named Commended Students in the 2027 National Merit Scholarship Program.

The Regina Dominican community celebrated Catherine and Kourtney’s achievement during an all-school morning meeting on Wednesday, September 30, where students, faculty, and staff gathered to recognize the seniors for this prestigious academic honor.

Commended Students are recognized for their exceptional academic promise based on their performance on the 2025 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). Approximately 34,000 students nationwide are named Commended Students each year.

“Catherine and Kourtney represent so much of what we value at Regina Dominican,” said Principal, Dr. Kassie Porreca.. “They are accomplished scholars who bring curiosity, determination, and a commitment to excellence to our community. It was especially meaningful to celebrate them together as a school, surrounded by the teachers and classmates who have supported and encouraged them along the way.”

As members of the Regina Dominican Class of 2027, Catherine and Kourtney have contributed to the academic and community life of the school. Their recognition as Commended Scholars reflects their individual dedication and achievement, as well as the culture at Regina Dominican that encourages young women to challenge themselves, pursue their passions, and strive for excellence.

At Regina Dominican, an all-girls Catholic high school in Wilmette, students are encouraged to find their voices, take intellectual risks, lead with confidence, and support one another along the way. The school’s close-knit community provides students with opportunities to grow as scholars, leaders, and women of purpose.

The September 30 all-school celebration offered an opportunity for the entire Regina Dominican community to recognize Catherine and Kourtney and celebrate their accomplishments together.

Please join Regina Dominican in congratulating Catherine Conway and Kourtney Schuenzel, members of the Class of 2027, on being named 2027 National Merit Commended Scholars.