The Abbie DeLoach Foundation proudly celebrated the 2025 recipients of its annual scholarships during a heartfelt luncheon held on April 17 at the Savannah Golf Club. This year’s class represents 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 passion, purpose, and dedication to nursing, education, and athletics.
This year’s luncheon marked a milestone, as the Foundation awarded its largest class to date—27 exceptional recipients. Each scholar was selected for their achievements and potential to make a lasting difference in their communities and beyond. We extend our sincere gratitude to Dan Umbel and the Umbel Group at Morgan Stanley for generously sponsoring this year’s event. Their ongoing support plays a vital role in helping the Foundation recognize and uplift these outstanding students.
The luncheon featured keynote speaker Fernando Velasco, Director of Player Development for the Atlanta Falcons and former University of Georgia standout. Velasco shared his personal journey of perseverance and purpose, encouraging students to lead with heart, humility, and resilience.
Jimmy DeLoach, founder of the Foundation and Abbie’s father, also spoke to attendees, offering a heartfelt message on the power of investing in future leaders 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 beside them as they pursue their dreams.”
The 2025 Abbie DeLoach Foundation Scholarship Class includes:
- 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 AUniversity
- Kia Mercurious – Mercer University
- Nwamaka Nwaise – Mercer University
- Ramon Ulises Mares – Mercer University
- Shaniece Cates – Mercer University
In addition, the Foundation continues to support global outreach efforts such as The Buena Vista Sports Academy (BVSA), a discipleship ministry in Quiché, Guatemala, which uses soccer as a tool to reach and uplift underserved communities around the world.
To date, the Abbie DeLoach Foundation has awarded over $2.1 million in scholarships and continues to invest in causes that reflect Abbie’s values. The Foundation also promotes education and advocacy around distracted driving through its annual #HandsFreeForAbbie campaign.
For more information about the Abbie DeLoach Foundation or to support its mission, please visit www.abbiedeloachfoundation.com
