Georgia Southern Celebrates Amazing Donors at Gratitude Gala

2024 Legacy Award:
Dennard L. and Wanda B. Scoggins

Alumni and longtime supporters Dennard (’65) and Wanda (’64, ’75) Scoggins have a unique romantic story. They first dated as students at Georgia Southern, married other people and, following the death of their spouses, reconnected and married more than 50 years later. They decided to turn Dennard’s planned legacy gift to Georgia Southern into something they both could enjoy now and made a $1 million donation to the Georgia Southern Athletic Foundation, Inc. The plaza between the Anthony P. Tippins Family Training Facility and the gates of Allen E. Paulson Stadium now bear the names of their deceased spouses.

2024 President’s Ambassador Award:
Walt and DeNorah Huggins

Walt Huggins (’80), and his wife, DeNorah, have been loyal supporters and ambassadors of Georgia Southern for almost 40 years. Walt, a partner of Quadrant Real Estate Advisors, has served on the Georgia Southern Foundation Board, the Athletic Foundation Board, Housing Foundation Board and the Campaign Steering Committee. In addition, Walt and DeNorah were two of the first supporters of the University’s Honors College and football initiative, Transition 20.

The University honored Walt and DeNorah with the President’s Ambassador Award for their dedication to Georgia Southern. They never hesitate to give of their time, talent and financial support.

2024 President’s Innovator Award: Synovus

Synovus is an enduring corporate partner of Georgia Southern. The company’s community-focused team hires the University’s graduates, supports its programs, provides scholarships and cheers for the Eagles.

Georgia Southern presented the 2024 President’s Innovator Award to Synovus representatives Darron Burnett and Kim Powell for the institution’s unwavering commitment to the University.

The President’s Visionary Award:
Mike Sanders

Mike Sanders was a distinguished alumnus (’81) and devoted supporter of the University who left an indelible mark on the institution through his tireless efforts to foster educational opportunities for future generations. After graduating from Georgia Southern, he remained deeply connected to his alma mater throughout his life. His impact on the University was profound, as evidenced by his pivotal role as co-chair of the comprehensive campaign, Together We Soar.

His contributions, including both time and resources, were instrumental in helping to shape the growth and development of Georgia Southern. Sanders was honored as a remarkable individual whose impact will continue to inspire the Georgia Southern community for years to come. The University presented his children, Stephanie, (left) and Robbie, (center) with the 2024 President’s Visionary Award in honor of their late father.

2025 Legacy Award:
Fred and Dinah Gretsch

Fred and Dinah Gretsch, legendary figures in the music industry, have spent their careers fostering relationships with iconic artists like George Harrison, Chet Atkins, Phil Collins and Charlie Watts, while also supporting the next generation of musicians. In 2021, the Fred and Dinah Gretsch School of Music was established at Georgia Southern, providing invaluable funding and enhancing the program’s visibility.

Their partnership has not only elevated the University’s music department but also contributed to a growing student interest. The University honored Fred and Dinah with the 2025 Legacy Award for their enduring legacy and ongoing contributions to music education, ensuring their influence will resonate for years to come.

2025 President’s Ambassador Award:
The Abbie DeLoach Foundation 

Jimmy DeLoach, founder of the Abbie DeLoach Foundation, has a deep connection to Georgia Southern, beginning as a graduate assistant under Erk Russell and later serving as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator. After the tragic loss of his daughter, Abbie, in 2015, DeLoach channeled his grief into philanthropy by founding the Abbie DeLoach Foundation, which supports causes that honor Abbie’s spirit.

Since 2016, the foundation has provided scholarships for nursing students and student-athletes, and its signature event, Abbie’s Adventure Race, has become a beloved part of Homecoming. Georgia Southern is deeply grateful for the foundation’s enduring impact on our community and is honored to recognize the foundation with the President’s Ambassador Award.

2025 President’s Innovator Award:
The Crider Family 

The Crider family’s remarkable generosity has had a transformative effect on Georgia Southern. In 2021, their groundbreaking gift to the Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering and Computing established the Advanced Processing Research Network, advancing student scholarships, faculty research and critical resources for the Department of Manufacturing Engineering. 

The Criders have been steadfast supporters of the University for more than 35 years, contributing to various programs, funding scholarships and hiring Georgia Southern graduates. Georgia Southern is deeply grateful for their continued devotion to the Eagle Nation community and the President’s Innovator Award honors them for their strong commitment to the University.

2025 President’s Visionary Award:
Anthony and Natalie Tippins 

Anthony and Natalie Tippins share a love for Georgia Southern University and Eagle Athletics and have demonstrated it through their exceptional contributions. Their vision and leadership were instrumental in the creation of the Anthony P. Tippins Family Training Facility, providing a vital space for Georgia Southern athletes to train in all weather conditions. The facility not only supports University teams but also serves as a gathering place for fans and families.

The Tippins family continues to make a significant mark on Eagle Athletics and is now focusing on the renovation of the baseball stadium. They were recognized with the 2025 President’s Visionary Award for their unwavering support and dedication to Georgia Southern.