The University of Georgia recognized its 2026 Alumni Awards honorees at a luncheon in Athens on April 2, celebrating alumni, friends, and faculty whose leadership and generosity have shaped the university’s history.
The annual awards honor individuals whose commitment continues to strengthen the Bulldog community. This year’s recipients include Larry R. Benson and Nancy C. Juneau (Alumni Merit Award), Robert E. Hoyt (Faculty Service Award), Rene and Jim Nalley (Family of the Year Award), and Brian E. Harman (Young Alumni Award).
“The University of Georgia continues to reach new heights of excellence thanks to the generous support of our loyal alumni and friends,” said UGA President Jere W. Morehead. “It is a tremendous privilege to recognize this year’s honorees for consistently going above and beyond, generating a legacy of lasting impact in every corner of our campus.”
Benson, a Terry College graduate and owner-chairman of Benson’s Inc., has supported numerous UGA initiatives through personal giving and his foundation, including contributions to business learning facilities and medical education buildings. Juneau, an alumna from the Mary Frances Early College of Education, serves as a trustee for multiple university foundations while also leading her construction company; she has been recognized for her mentorship, industry leadership, and philanthropic support for student-focused projects.
Jim Nalley—a third-generation automotive leader—and his wife Rene received recognition as Family of the Year for their longstanding contributions across academic programs, athletics facilities, endowed chairs in business disciplines, as well as multigenerational engagement with UGA by their children and grandchildren.
Hoyt retired in December 2025 after nearly four decades at UGA’s Terry College where he taught risk management courses to generations of students while mentoring them through career events; his service was acknowledged with several teaching awards over his tenure.
Harman—professional golfer since 2010—has supported scholarships connecting students with experiential learning opportunities in forestry while maintaining involvement through volunteerism since graduating from Terry College in 2011.
“Our 2026 recipients have given so much to the University of Georgia, and it is a privilege to recognize them,” said Jill S. Walton, vice president for development and alumni relations. “Their dedication reflects the very best of UGA, and we are deeply grateful for their continued service and partnership as we build an even stronger future together.”
More information about these honorees can be found at alumni.uga.edu/alumniawards.
