Gratitude Gala
Georgia Southern University hosted its annual Gratitude Gala to recognize key donors for their longtime support of institutional initiatives. The event was held on March 29 at the JW Marriott Plant Riverside in Savannah where honorees were presented with awards.
Learn more about the 2024 Georgia Southern Gratitude Gala Award Winners
The Legacy Award: Dr. Dennard L. And Wanda B. Scoggins
Alumni and long-time supporters Dennard (‘65) and Wanda (‘64, ‘75) Scoggins have a unique story in which 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 that they both could enjoy now and made a $1 million donation to the Georgia Southern Athletic Foundation, Inc. Pending a Board of Regents approval, the plaza between the Anthony P. Tippins Family Training Facility and the gates of Allen E. Paulson Stadium will bear the names of their deceased spouses.
The 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 2024 President’s Ambassador Award for their dedication to Georgia Southern, giving of their time, their talent and financial support.
The President’s Innovator Award: Synovus
Synovus is an enduring corporate partner of Georgia Southern’s. The company’s community-focused team hires the University’s graduates, supports its programs, provides scholarships and cheers on 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, spanning 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 and Robbie, with the 2024 President’s Visionary Award in honor of their late father.
Last updated: 4/2/2024