Midway ISD is proud to announce that three Midway High School seniors — Zoe Betancis, Lily Lu, and Kennedy Williams — have been named National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists for 2025. This prestigious recognition places them among the top students nationwide for their academic excellence, leadership, and dedication to their school and community.
“These students represent the best of Midway ISD,” said Superintendent Dr. Chris Allen. “Their accomplishments are a reflection of years of hard work, as well as the support of their families, teachers, and community.”
Kennedy Williams
The daughter of Shaun and Lee Williams of Woodway, Kennedy has demonstrated achievement in both academics and athletics. She is a member of the National Honor Society, has earned AP Scholar with Distinction and the National School Recognition Award for outstanding academic achievement. At Midway, she has been active in track and field and Student Council, while also volunteering in community events and her church, and serving as a tutor with Kumon. After graduation, Kennedy plans to attend the University of Texas at Austin, where she will study engineering.
Lily Lu
Lily, the daughter of Weigang Lu and Zhenrong Zhang of Woodway, has excelled both academically and artistically. She has earned recognition as an AP Scholar with Honor and has served as the National Center for Women & Information Technology Aspirations in Computing regional affiliate for two years. At Midway, Lily participates in the Recycling Club is on the science, math and number sense UIL academic teams. Outside of school, she is a pre-professional competition dancer and works as an assistant dance teacher, dedicating hours each week to mentoring younger students. Lily’s future plans include studying Physics at Baylor University and may include attending the CLI Conservatory to pursue pre-professional dance training.
Zoe Betancis
The daughter of Candice and Randy Betancis of Woodway, Zoe is an accomplished scholar and leader at Midway High School. She has been recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction, earned the National School Recognition Award for outstanding academic achievement her senior year and was honored with the Spirit of Midway Award all four years of high school. A two-year officer in Student Council, Zoe has also been active in National Honor Society, HOSA, Best Buddies, PALs, and multiple UIL academic teams. Outside the classroom, she is an avid volunteer with Waco Challenger Little League and enjoys serving her community through various organizations and through her church. After graduation, Zoe plans to attend either Rice University or The University of Texas at Austin, where she hopes to major in chemistry on a pre-medical track.
National Merit Semifinalists represent less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors and are selected based on their performance on the PSAT/NMSQT. Zoe, Lily, and Kennedy now move forward in the competition for National Merit Finalist standing and the opportunity to earn college scholarships. In 2024, MHS had two semifinalists.
“Zoe, Lily, and Kennedy are outstanding representatives of Midway High School,” said Midway High School Principal Alison Smith. “Their accomplishments inspire their peers and show what is possible with hard work, passion, and perseverance.”
