Savannah, GA — The Abbie DeLoach Foundation proudly recognized the 2025 recipients of its annual scholarships at a special luncheon held on April 17 at the Savannah Golf Club. This year’s class includes an inspiring group of students who embody Abbie’s legacy through their commitment to academic excellence, athletic achievement, and service to others.
Now in its ninth year, the Foundation continues to honor the life and memory of Abbie DeLoach, one of five Georgia Southern University nursing students tragically killed in a 2015 car accident. In her honor, the Foundation provides scholarships to students who reflect her spirit, passion, and dedication to nursing, education, and athletics.
This year’s event marked the Foundation’s largest class to date, with 27 deserving students receiving scholarships. Each recipient was selected for their outstanding accomplishments and their potential to make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond.
We extend our thanks to Dan Umbel and the Umbel Group at Morgan Stanley for their generous sponsorship of this year’s luncheon. Their support helps make this event possible.
Fernando Velasco, Director of Player Development for the Atlanta Falcons and former Georgia Bulldog standout, served as the keynote speaker. Velasco shared his journey of perseverance and purpose, encouraging recipients to lead with heart, humility, and resilience.
Jimmy DeLoach, founder of the Foundation and Abbie’s dad, addressed attendees with heartfelt words about the importance of investing in young people and carrying forward Abbie’s light.
“The students we honor today are a testament to Abbie’s legacy,” said Jimmy DeLoach. “Their work in the classroom, on the field, and in service reflects her passions and her heart. We are proud to stand with them as they pursue their dreams.”
Following are the members of the 2025 Scholarship class:
Jordan Christy – Georgia Southern University
Bryce Baker – Georgia Southern University
Kennedy Wesolowski – Georgia Southern University
Avery Southerland – Georgia Southern University
Caroline Scoggins – Georgia Southern University
Lenora Mansell – Georgia Southern University
Milissa Maxwell – Savannah Christian Preparatory School
Kirk Wetmore – Savannah Christian Preparatory School
Angela Dodson – Savannah State University
Ameer Phillips – Savannah State University
Myers Middle School Counseling Department
Groves High School BETA Club
Woodville Tompkins BETA Club
Lilly Wood – University of Georgia
Milon Biswas – University of Georgia
Anna Lauren DeLoach – University of Georgia
Hannah Warren – University of Georgia
Riley Panessa – University of Georgia
Jenna Dekich – University of Georgia
Samuel Parker – University of Georgia
RayQuan Williams – Savannah Quarterback Club (Groves High School)
Lindsay Hunt – Mercer University
Kia Mercurious – Mercer University
Nwamaka Nwaise – Mercer University
Ramon Ulises Mares – Mercer University
Shaniece Cates – Mercer University
Also, The Buena Vista Sports Academy (BVSA), a discipleship ministry in Quiché, Guatemala, that leverages soccer to reach challenging areas globally.
To date, the Abbie DeLoach Foundation has awarded over $2.1 million in scholarships and continues to support causes and organizations aligned with Abbie’s values. The Foundation also promotes awareness around distracted driving through its annual #HandsFreeForAbbie campaign.
For more information about the Abbie DeLoach Foundation and how to support its mission, visit www.abbiedeloachfoundation.com.
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