Legends, Leaders, and Life Well Lived Award

Meet the 2026 Honorees

🌟 Pat Hackney – A beloved community leader whose lifelong service has helped shape Savannah’s civic, cultural, and philanthropic landscapes. Through her leadership with the Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens, she has been instrumental in building educational programs, growing membership, and creating signature events that engage and inspire. Known for her ability to bring people together in service of a greater good, Pat’s impact extends across countless charitable efforts that have mobilized Savannah in support of others. Her generosity, quiet leadership, and unwavering commitment to service truly exemplifies a life well lived.

🌟 Shirley Barber James – A respected civic leader whose lifelong commitment to education, media, and public service has profoundly shaped Savannah’s civic and cultural life. A graduate of Spelman College and Harvard University’s Graduate School of Education, Shirley served for many years in senior leadership roles at Savannah State University before becoming publisher of The Savannah Tribune, a trusted voice for the African American community. Through her leadership in journalism, civic organizations, women’s groups, and public commissions, Shirley has championed education, civic engagement, and community connection leaving a lasting legacy of service, advocacy, and leadership.

🌟 Dr. Paul Pressly – This lifelong educator and scholar has molded generations of students and enriched the cultural and educational life of Savannah. As longtime Headmaster of Savannah Country Day School, Paul is known for his integrity, mentorship, and personal connection with students. His impact extends well beyond the classroom through national leadership in independent education, scholarship in Southern and Gullah/Geechee history, and his work with the Ossabaw Island Education Alliance—preserving history, fostering curiosity, and inspiring lifelong learning.

Celebrating Impact, Supporting Purpose

The Legends, Leaders, and Life Well Lived Awards Luncheon is one of Senior Citizens Inc.’s signature events, celebrating individuals whose lives inspire us while supporting a mission that impacts thousands of older adults each year.

Proceeds from the luncheon help Senior Citizens Inc. continue its work helping older adults age successfully through programs that provide nutrition, care, companionship, and lifelong learning – ensuring everyone has the opportunity to have a life well lived.