Bengals, Beetdiggers, Chargers, and Huskies are counted among the nation’s top students in the Class of 2024.

Of the 31 Utah students who were recently announced as 2024 National Merit Scholars, five are from Canyons District high schools. The CSD tally, which includes students from Brighton, Corner Canyon, Hillcrest and Jordan high schools, is the highest among all other Utah school districts.

  Canyons District’s 2024 National Merit Scholars are: 

• Ivan Chen, Hillcrest High School
• Talmage Howe, Brighton High School
• Elline H. Harrison, Corner Canyon High School
• Nayantara R. Nair, Hillcrest High School
• Mitchell L. Stepan, Jordan High School

National Merit Scholars receive $2,500 to help pay for their college or university studies — but being named to the list is often the biggest reward for students and their families. 

Winners in the prestigious scholarship competition are judged to have the strongest combination of academic achievement, leadership skills, and service-oriented endeavors.  Information about each finalist is provided to the National Merit Scholarship Corp. for consideration. 

Experts evaluate each finalist’s academic record, college-entrance exam scores, and the school official’s written recommendation and characterization of the finalist.  The student also must write and submit an essay with the application. 

“Our students work hard in and outside of the classroom,” says Canyons District Superintendent Dr. Rick Robins. “To see their names being recognized at the national level is a testament to their hard work and dedication.  It also is a testament to the support provided by our educators, counselors, and principals.”