Honoring Excellence: 69th Annual Academic Banquet Celebrates Foley High School's Top Scholars

The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce & Foundation proudly celebrated Foley High School’s top academic seniors and the 2025–2026 Teacher of the Year during the 69th Annual Academic Banquet — a long-standing tradition that honors excellence in education and the remarkable students and educators shaping the future of our community.

The evening recognized thirteen outstanding seniors who earned the prestigious Diploma with Distinction, an achievement awarded to students who complete the most rigorous academic pathways available at Foley High School, including Advanced Placement (AP), dual enrollment, and honors-level coursework. The distinction represents not only academic success, but also perseverance, leadership, and a strong commitment to future college and career goals.

To commemorate the achievement, Principal Jessica Webb and Senior Counselor Jessica Gosa presented each honoree with a special graduation medal symbolizing their dedication and hard work throughout their high school careers.

One of the most meaningful moments of the evening came as students shared personal reflections about their journeys, future aspirations, and the people who encouraged them along the way. Their stories offered an inspiring reminder of the determination, resilience, and potential found within the next generation of South Baldwin leaders.

2026 Foley High School Academic Honorees:

Emmarie Avery

Jacob Bennett

John Boling

Merelyn Cartagena

Kathy Chavez-Raya

Cheyenne Cunningham

Haylee Gee

Jacob Guthrie

Beau Jemison

Cooper Kinkead

Shivani Patel

Miguel Quintero

Gabriela Ramos

Teacher of the Year, Brandy Richard

We were especially proud to recognize Foley High School's 2025–2026 Teacher of the Year, Brandy Richard, for her positive and lasting impact on students, both in and out of the classroom.

During the evening, Ms. Richard deeply inspired the students and guests by sharing the moving story of why she chose to become an educator. She spoke passionately about her hope to be that essential mentor and champion for her students—the very kind of champion she was once so thankful to have in her own life, when she didn't have anyone else championing her. Her profound dedication to mentorship continues to inspire excellence throughout the school.  

A Special FHS Tradition

The evening also highlighted a long-standing tradition carried on year after year by State Representative Frances Holk-Jones and Carl Jones, who donate a set of books to the FHS library in honor of the student honorees. Having been a member of one of the very first classes recognized for academic excellence at Foley High School, Representative Holk-Jones proudly continues this full-circle legacy.

A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Sponsors

A special thank you to our Presenting Sponsor, Columbia Southern University, for helping make this special evening possible. We are also grateful for the continued support of our community partners who invest in local education and student success: Baldwin EMC, Beebe’s Pest & Termite Control, Elberta Pharmacy, Frances Holk Insurance Co./State Farm, Riviera Utilities, Coastal Alabama Community College, Manning Jewelry, Storage Plus, Tidwell Air Systems, and Table Topics

As the evening came to a close, one thing was abundantly clear — the future of South Baldwin is bright. The South Baldwin Chamber Foundation proudly congratulates these exceptional students, their families, educators, and mentors. We are honored to celebrate your accomplishments and look forward to the incredible impact you will make in the years ahead.