JOPLIN, Mo. – Recent McAuley Catholic High School graduate Franklin “Trae” Veer, III has been named a 2026 National Merit Scholarship winner. Veer was awarded the National Merit University of Tulsa Scholarship, where he plans to study Pre-Medicine this fall.
The National Merit award provides between $500 and $2,500 annually for up to four years of undergraduate study.
The award is part of the final round of 2026 announcements from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). Nationwide, 138 colleges and universities sponsored more than 3,250 scholarships this year, bringing the total number of 2026 National Merit Scholars to approximately 6,500. Combined, these students will receive nearly $24 million in college assistance.
Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®) during their junior year, serving as the initial screening for entry into the program.
About National Merit Scholarship Corporation
Established in 1955, the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) is an independent, non-profit organization that operates without government assistance. NMSC conducts the annual National Merit® Scholarship Program to honor the nation’s scholastic champions and encourage the pursuit of academic excellence.
About Joplin Area Catholic Schools
Founded in 1885 by the Sisters of Mercy of St. Catherine McAuley, the Joplin Area Catholic Schools (JACS) serves the greater Joplin community to educate Catholic and non-Catholic children from Early Learners (2-year-olds) through grade 12 at St. Mary Preschool and Elementary School, St. Ann’s Catholic School, St. Peter’s Middle School, and McAuley Catholic High School. Joplin Area Catholic Schools provide an outstanding academic and Christ-centered educational foundation that forms our present students of today into remarkable servant-leaders of tomorrow. For more information or to inquire about enrollment, visit www.JACSS.org.
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