Senior Named Coca-Cola Scholar Semifinalist
Senior Carlos Salazar has been named a semifinalist in the 2025-2026 Coca-Cola Scholars Program.
Only 1,237 semifinalists were chosen among over 107,000 applicants this year based on their outstanding leadership, academic achievements and dedication to their community. They are now in the running for 150 college scholarships worth $20,000.
Salazar, an aspiring computer engineer, is a leader on Barstow's FIRST Robotics Team 1939 and a FIRST Dean's List Finalist (2024-2025). He is a Congressional Award Gold Medalist, National Merit Scholarship Semifinalist, member of the National Honor and Cum Laude Societies, and a leader on the School's computer programming team. A well-rounded and involved student, Salazar also recently served as crew head for the upper school musical, "Little Shop of Horrors."
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Salazar, an aspiring computer engineer, is a leader on Barstow's FIRST Robotics Team 1939 and a FIRST Dean's List Finalist (2024-2025). He is a Congressional Award Gold Medalist, National Merit Scholarship Semifinalist, member of the National Honor and Cum Laude Societies, and a leader on the School's computer programming team. A well-rounded and involved student, Salazar also recently served as crew head for the upper school musical, "Little Shop of Horrors."
“We are incredibly proud of Carlos for being named a Coca-Cola Scholars semifinalist,” President and Head of School Art Hall said. “Carlos exemplifies Barstow’s spirit of leadership, service and academic excellence. His involvement in so many activities and his dedication to our community and his peers sets a powerful example for all students.”
the Coca-Cola Scholars Program is the largest corporate-sponsored, achievement-based scholarship program in the United States. With the addition of the 2026 class, the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation will have provided more than 7,200 Coke Scholars nationwide with over $90 million in scholarships over the course of 38 years.
“We believe that identifying these young leaders throughout the country and encouraging their passion for serving others not only empowers the students but also lifts up those around them.” said Jane Hale Paulsen, President of the Foundation. “The Coca-Cola system is dedicated to giving back to the communities they serve, and the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation is proud to be a part of that commitment.”
Semifinalists now complete Phase 2 applications, which include essays, a recommendation, and a transcript. An independent selection committee will review the applications and recommend 250 Regional Finalists in early January to take part in online interviews, with final selections announced in late February.
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Carlos Salazar (middle), is a Coca-Cola Scholars semifinalist.
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He is also a leader on FIRST Robotics Team 1939, and a FIRST Dean's List finalist.
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In July, Salazar joined President Art Hall, Barstow students and Sporting KC captains for a coin toss at Children's Mercy Park.
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