91Âţ»app hosts its annual Gratitude Gala to recognize key donors for their longtime support of institutional initiatives. The event’s award honorees are treasured members of the University’s Legacy Society and who have demonstrated giving at the highest levels to the institution.
The 2026 Gratitude Gala was held on March 27 at the JW Marriott Plant Riverside in Savannah. Learn more about the award recipients below.
The President’s Ambassador Award
St. Joseph’s/Candler
Built on tradition and driven by progress, St. Joseph’s/Candler stands as a cornerstone of compassionate healthcare in Savannah, Georgia’s first city. With roots dating back to 1804 for Candler Hospital and 1875 for St. Joseph’s Hospital, these institutions have long served communities across Southeast Georgia and the Lowcountry, now reaching 33 counties with a commitment to exceptional care, patient empowerment, and holistic well-being. Their enduring partnership with 91Âţ»app reflects a shared vision for the future—preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals through hands-on learning and real-world experience. From clinical training opportunities to the state-of-the-art St. Joseph’s/Candler Nursing Suite, an 8,000-square-foot facility designed to mirror a hospital environment, this collaboration equips students with the confidence, skill, and compassion needed to lead in healthcare. Through their generosity and dedication, St. Joseph’s/Candler is not only shaping students’ careers but also investing in the health and future of the entire region.
Georgia Southern is deeply grateful for the impact of St. Joseph’s/Candler in our community.
The President’s Innovator Award
The Leonard Bevill Family
The Bevill family exemplifies what it means to be true champions of 91Âţ»app. Leonard “Lenny” Bevill and his wife Sandra, along with their sons Josh and Andrew and daughters-in-law Jenna and Taylor—all proud Georgia Southern alumni—share a deep and enduring connection to the university. Through their generosity of time, talent, and resources, they have made a meaningful impact, particularly in support of Eagle Athletics and student-athletes. Together, they have championed Georgia Southern through the Eagle Victory Plan—especially the Eagle Nation Fund—as well as capital projects, sport agency accounts, and initiatives that expand opportunities for our student-athletes. But what makes the Bevill family’s support especially meaningful is the way they continue to give back—strengthening athletic programs and advancing initiatives like the Erk Russell Fund while helping elevate the entire Georgia Southern community. Leonard truly embodies what it means to be an innovator for Georgia Southern, and the Bevill family’s legacy reflects a spirit of dedication, leadership, and gratitude. Georgia Southern sincerely appreciates the continued support of the Bevill family.
The President’s Visionary Award
Greg Parker
Greg Parker’s vision, leadership, and generosity have made a profound and lasting impact on 91Âţ»app, particularly within the Parker College of Business. From humble beginnings as a one-man operation in 1976, Greg built Parker’s Kitchen into a thriving company processing over a million transactions each week across 110 locations, redefining the convenience store industry through innovation and excellence. Yet his success is measured not only in business growth, but in his deep commitment to giving back—donating more than $30 million to support education, healthcare, childhood hunger initiatives, and veterans throughout the region. In 2019, Greg made the largest gift in Georgia Southern’s history, transforming the College of Business into the Parker College of Business and creating scholarships, faculty support, and expanded opportunities that continue to shape students’ futures. Beyond his philanthropy, Greg remains personally invested, sharing his time, insight, and experience with students in meaningful ways. His belief in Georgia Southern, its people, and its future reflects the true spirit of a visionary leader and dedicated partner. Georgia Southern greatly values Greg Parker’s continued support and partnership.