Savannah, GA — The Abbie DeLoach Foundation recognized the 2026 class of scholarship recipients during its annual Scholarship Luncheon on April 10 at the Savannah Golf Club. The event honored students whose achievements in academics, athletics, and community service reflect the values and legacy of Abbie DeLoach.
Now in its eleventh year, the foundation continues to celebrate Abbie’s life and memory. Abbie was one of five Georgia Southern University nursing students who tragically lost their lives in a 2015 car accident. In her honor, the foundation awards scholarships to students who demonstrate a commitment to education, leadership, service, and pursuing careers in areas that were meaningful to Abbie, including nursing and athletics.
This year’s luncheon recognized the largest scholarship class in the foundation’s history, with 28 students and organizations honored for their achievements and their potential to positively impact their communities.
The foundation extends its sincere thanks to Dan Umbel and the Umbel Group at Morgan Stanley for their generous support as a sponsor of this year’s luncheon.
The event featured keynote remarks from Jesse Dillon, Chief Operating Officer of the Savannah Economic Development Authority, who shared an inspiring message about leadership, community engagement, and investing in the next generation.
Foundation founder and Abbie’s Dad, Jimmy DeLoach addressed attendees with heartfelt remarks about the importance of encouraging young people to pursue their passions and serve others.
“The students we honor today are a testament to Abbie’s legacy,” said DeLoach. “Their dedication in the classroom, in athletics, and through service reflects her spirit and her heart. We are proud to support them as they pursue their goals and make a difference.”
2026 Abbie DeLoach Foundation Scholarship Recipients
Georgia Southern University
Riley Browne
Bryce Baker
Camorera Swinton
Treonna Brown
Marie Le
Briana Smith
Savannah Christian Preparatory School
Katie Miller
Rasheem “RJ” Daniels
Savannah State University
Ansley Hicks
Bryce Bause
University of Georgia
Matthew McKinley
Austin Nizigiyimana
Amanda Robinson
Abigail Smallwood
Mercer University
Qourtney Johnson
Jasmine Benson
Nicole Williston Jones
Forum Patel
Miyal Stallings
Community & Organizational Scholarship Recipients
Tybee Island Maritime Academy Nursing Clinic
Coastal Middle School Counseling Team
A.E. Beach High School Army Junior ROTC
The foundation also recognized Buena Vista Sports Academy, as a recipient, a discipleship ministry in Quiché, Guatemala that uses soccer to reach and mentor youth in underserved communities.
To date, the Abbie DeLoach Foundation has awarded more than $2.4 million in scholarships and continues to support organizations and initiatives aligned with Abbie’s values. The foundation also promotes distracted driving awareness through its annual Hands Free for Abbie campaign, encouraging drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and their focus on the road.
For more information about the foundation and its programs, visit:
www.abbiedeloachfoundation.com
Take the pledge: https://abbiedeloachfoundation.com/hands-free-for-abbie/
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