Klein Collins Senior Rachel Roth Wins National Merit Corporate-Sponsored Scholarship

Klein, Texas—Rachel Roth, Klein Collins salutatorian and one of seven Klein ISD National Merit Finalists, has earned the prestigious National Merit Occidental Petroleum Corporation Scholarship. This honor places her among an elite group of students recognized by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation for academic excellence, leadership, and promise.

“I am incredibly honored to be named a National Merit Finalist and Scholarship recipient!” Rachel said. “I am so grateful for my amazing support system of my parents, teachers, and sponsors throughout Klein ISD, who have continually encouraged and challenged me to achieve my goals.”

Rachel, a standout scholar in Klein ISD, will attend Texas A&M University in the fall to study Chemical Engineering. She hopes to pursue a career in medical biotechnology research and development—combining scientific curiosity with a passion for innovation and community impact.

“Time and time again, Rachel has impressed me with her tenacious spirit as she passionately takes on each day. Curiosity and thoughtfulness frame her approach as she learns new content, consistently seeking the heart of new concepts,” Klein Collins teacher Ms. Elizabeth Broussard said. “Rachel’s well-thought-out questions and leadership in group experiments are instrumental to our classroom environment. Her determination and focus for her aspirations demonstrate to me that she can do anything she puts her mind to. Rachel is an incredibly driven, bright, and talented young person. What a well-deserved recognition!”

Rachel’s achievements go far beyond the classroom. She has served as President of the Science National Honor Society and the BEST (Bringing Exceptional Students Together) program, and she is the Co-founder and President of KC Bakes. She has been actively involved in the National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Key Club, and Student Council, holding multiple officer positions.

Additionally, Rachel is a Gold Award Girl Scout and has contributed over 250 hours in service through her church and community organizations. Her leadership on the Superintendent’s Student Leadership Council, as well as her selection as a Brown Foundation Scholar and recipient of the AP Capstone Diploma, highlights her academic and civic distinction.

“Rachel’s academic excellence is matched only by her humility and compassion,” Superintendent Dr. McGown said. “As a member of my Superintendent Student Leadership Council these past five years, I was able to witness firsthand Rachel’s heart for others and her genuine care for how best to improve our schools, which fueled many thoughtful discussions among her peers and throughout our school district. She represents everything we hope for in our graduates—she’s brilliant, kind, and committed to making a positive difference in the world. I am so proud of Rachel, and I look forward to hearing great things about her long after she pursues her purpose beyond Klein ISD! Congratulations, Rachel!”

The Occidental Petroleum Corporation awards scholarships to students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance and plan to enter careers that align with the company’s focus areas, including engineering and the sciences.

Congratulations to Rachel Roth for representing Klein Collins and Klein ISD with excellence and distinction. Her dedication to learning and leadership will undoubtedly carry her far beyond college and into a career of impact.