Shelby’s Light Continues to Shine Through 2026 Scholarship Recipients

The Shelby Shines On Foundation was honored to award two scholarships this May to students whose compassion, leadership, and servant hearts reflect the kind of impact Shelby made on the people around her every day.

This marks the second year the Foundation has awarded a scholarship at Eastside High School, a place that holds meaning for our family. Chris, Shelby’s dad, and Ivy, Shelby’s sister, are both Eastside alumni, making the opportunity to continue giving back there meaningful. On May 7, the Foundation awarded a scholarship to Hope Poor of Eastside High School. Hope will be attending University of North Georgia this fall. Throughout her essay, Hope shared how important it has been to serve and support non-typical students both inside and outside the classroom. Her words reflected genuine empathy, kindness, and the understanding that inclusion makes everyone stronger.

On May 14, the Foundation proudly presented its first-ever scholarship at Covington Academy, Shelby’s alma mater. The scholarship was awarded to Jackson Hardy, who will be participating in an automotive apprenticeship after high school. Presenting this scholarship at Covington Academy, where Shelby felt connected, thrived, and found purpose, made for an especially emotional evening for our family and foundation.

Like Hope, Jackson’s essay stood out because of the care and compassion he has shown toward peers with support needs. He shared how volunteering alongside non-typical students helped shape him into a better person and strengthened his understanding of patience, encouragement, and community. It was clear from both scholarship recipients that they care deeply about the success and well-being of the students they work with.

One of the most moving parts of reading this year’s applications was seeing the shared thread between both recipients. Even though they attend different schools and are heading toward different futures, both students demonstrated the same belief: every student deserves to feel seen, included, valued, and supported.

In addition to the scholarships, the Shelby Shines On Foundation was proud to make a $500 donation to the Eagles on Duty Club at Eastside High School. Eagles on Duty promotes an inclusive environment and atmosphere where peers without disabilities work alongside peers with support needs for a mutually beneficial social and educational experience. The impact of Eagles on Duty was mentioned repeatedly in scholarship essays by this year’s and last's Eastside recipients. It is clear that the club is helping shape a culture of compassion, friendship, and inclusion that extends far beyond the classroom walls.

The Shelby Shines On Foundation believes kindness matters. Service matters. Inclusion matters. This year’s scholarship recipients reminded us that some of the most important leadership happens quietly, through encouragement, friendship, and showing up for others.

Shelby’s light continues to shine through students like Hope and Jackson, and we cannot wait to see the impact they make in the years ahead.

Congratulations to all 2026 graduates!