Honoring Excellence: 68th Annual Academic Banquet Celebrates Foley High School’s Top Scholars

On the evening of May 14, 2025, the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce and Foundation proudly hosted the 68th Annual Academic Banquet at Wolf Bay Restaurant’s Banquet Room, celebrating the top academic seniors from Foley High School. This time-honored tradition reflects the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to supporting education and recognizing academic excellence within our community.

The event recognized thirteen exceptional students who earned the prestigious Diploma with Distinction, an honor awarded to those who complete the most rigorous academic coursework offered on campus, including Advanced Placement (AP), dual enrollment, and honors-level classes. This distinction reflects their dedication to academic excellence, personal growth, and readiness for college or career success.

To celebrate this achievement, Principal Jessica Webb and Senior Counselor Jamel Thomas presented each honoree with a medal to be worn at graduation, a symbol of their hard work and academic accomplishments.

As part of the evening’s program, students also shared personal reflections, offering a glimpse into the unique journeys, dreams, and inspirations behind each student’s success.

We were especially proud to recognize Foley High School’s 2024–2025 Teacher of the Year, Jeremy Borchardt, for his positive and lasting impact on students, both inside and outside the classroom. His dedication to education and mentorship continues to inspire excellence throughout the school.

We were also honored to have Superintendent Eddie Tyler in attendance, whose presence underscored the importance of celebrating academic achievement across Baldwin County.

A heartfelt thank you goes to our Presenting Sponsors: Ascend Performance Materials and Alabama Credit Union, whose generous support makes this celebration possible. We also extend our sincere appreciation to our additional sponsors:

Columbia Southern University, Elberta Pharmacy, Frances Holk Insurance Co./State Farm, McAleer’s Office Furniture, Riviera Utilities, Coastal Alabama Community College, Manning Jewelry, Storage Plus, Tidwell Air Systems, Baldwin EMC, and Table Topics.

Congratulations to the following Foley High School seniors for their exceptional accomplishments:

• Wyatt Cruze

• Aubrey Gianelloni

• Evan Jordan

• Aidan Latta

• Emmanuelly Loyola

• Blakeley Peterson

• Kyle Reed

• Claire Reissiger

• Secilia Soto

• Gabriel Vandiver

• Brayden Wallace

• Sawyer Whatley

As we celebrated their achievements, we were reminded that the future of our community is in strong, capable hands. Congratulations once again to the honorees, their families, and the educators who help guide and inspire them. The South Baldwin Chamber Foundation is proud to support you and be part of your journey forward.

Click HERE to view event photo album.