September 15, 2021
HATTIESBURG, MS - National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) has recognized Sacred Heart Catholic School student, Christina Danford, as a Semifinalist. This standing is a result of her initial screening with 2020 Preliminary SAT (PSAT) results and represents less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors.
Sacred Heart Catholic School desires to develop the whole student through its teachings and extra-curricular opportunities. “National Merit represents the best of the best academically talented students. However, Danford is a triple-A-threat! She excels in academics, athletics and artistry,” said Kimberly Pittman, school counselor for Sacred Heart. Danford was selected to participate in the Hattiesburg Mayor’s Youth Council, performed as a violinist at Carnegie Hall, awarded the Coca-Cola Scholar Athlete and is a member of the 30+ Club for ACT.
“Christina is a sincere leader with a strong moral compass,” said Betsy McIntire, faculty in literature and composition. “She will continue her ascent into the future, fearless, curious, joyful and with gratitude.” Danford represented Sacred Heart as a Girls State Delegate and was named Distinguished Young Woman of Mississippi for 2022. Sacred Heart faculty selected Danford as the Outstanding Undergraduate for the junior class.
Danford plans to attend the United States Naval Academy and major in Chemistry. "I have been recruited to play tennis for the Naval Academy next year. My goal is to graduate and attend medical school,” said Danford. “My most meaningful academic experience in school is with the AP Chemistry program at Sacred Heart. I have enjoyed the smaller classroom size which allowed my teacher to spend quality time with me. I have learned about kinetics and equilibrium, but most importantly, my teacher has also strengthened my time management and study skills.”
Danford will continue the NMSC competition with a goal advancing to finalist in spring. Congratulations to Danford for yet another amazing accomplishment.