Janice Lin and Lydia Luksha have been named commended students in the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program.

Janice and Lydia are seniors at Pine Bush High School.

“This is an amazing accomplishment for Lydia and Janice to be recognized,” said Pine Bush High School Principal Aaron Hopmayer. “ They are two outstanding young ladies and have tremendous futures. We are so proud of them.”

 

“We at PBHS are so proud to congratulate Lydia and Janice on this accomplishment,” said Denise Tzouganatos, assistant principal at PBHS. “This is a high honor that is rightfully deserved by such amazing individuals. We are confident this is just the beginning of a long and successful future for these bright students. Kudos!”

Allyson Steinberg is the school counselor for both young women.

“This recognition is a testament to Lydia and Janice’s hard work, dedication, and support from their families and school community,” said Ms. Steinberg. “It is a unique and special accomplishment that highlights and honors their commitment to academic excellence. I am so proud and have no doubt they will continue to achieve great things in the future.”

Approximately 34,000 commended students throughout the nation are being recognized for their exceptional academic promise. They place among the top 50,000 students who entered the 2025 competition by taking the 2023 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.

“Commended students have demonstrated outstanding potential for academic success,” according to a release by National Merit Scholarship Corporation. “These students represent a valuable national resource. Recognizing their accomplishments, as well as the key role their schools play in their academic development, is vital to the advancement of educational excellence in our nation.”