Galesburg High School senior named National Merit Scholarship finalist

Liam Dilley among top academic performers in the U.S. competing for $30 million in scholarships

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Galesburg High School senior Liam Dilley has been named a finalist in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program, placing him among the top academic performers in the United States. Finalists are selected through exceptional performance on the PSAT/NMSQT and a rigorous application process evaluating academic records, leadership, and community contributions.

Why it matters

The National Merit Scholarship Program recognizes and honors the country's scholastic champions, providing financial assistance to exceptional high school students. Dilley's achievement as a finalist reflects well on Galesburg High School and the community, showcasing the academic talent being cultivated in the region.

The details

Dilley will now compete for one of approximately 7,500 National Merit Scholarships worth nearly $30 million. Scholarship winners are expected to be announced in March. 'We are incredibly proud of Liam's dedication to academic excellence,' said GHS Principal Jeff Ewing. 'This honor reflects not only Liam's intellectual ability but also a commitment to hard work and community leadership that inspires our entire school community.'

  • Liam Dilley was named a 2026 National Merit Scholarship finalist.

The players

Liam Dilley

A senior at Galesburg High School who has been named a finalist in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program.

Jeff Ewing

The principal of Galesburg High School, who expressed pride in Dilley's academic achievement and dedication.

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What they’re saying

“We are incredibly proud of Liam's dedication to academic excellence. This honor reflects not only Liam's intellectual ability but also a commitment to hard work and community leadership that inspires our entire school community.”

— Jeff Ewing, Principal, Galesburg High School (wgil.com)

What’s next

Scholarship winners are expected to be announced in March.

The takeaway

Liam Dilley's achievement as a National Merit Scholarship finalist highlights the exceptional academic talent being cultivated at Galesburg High School and in the local community. This recognition will open doors for Dilley's future and serve as an inspiration for other students to strive for academic excellence.