Augusta Health Foundation Celebrates 2026 Scholarship Recipients

FISHERSVILLE, VIRGINIA —Augusta Health Foundation is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2026 John B. Davis Scholarship and the Kent-Holbert Scholarships.

Made possible by generous contributors, these scholarships help local students pursuing careers in healthcare and related fields continue their education and prepare for the future. The Augusta Health Board of Directors established the John B. Davis Scholarship in memory of former Board member John B. Davis, honoring his lasting contributions to Augusta Health and the community. The scholarship supports students pursuing degrees or certifications in healthcare and allied health professions.

This year’s John B. Davis Scholarship recipient is Samuel Starcher, a graduate of Buffalo Gap High School. He received a $1,200 award presented by John’s widow, Mrs. Patrice Davis. Samuel served as president of the National Honor Society and the International Thespian Society, vice president of the Student Council, and was an active member of the marching, concert, and jazz bands, as well as the Youth Philanthropy Council. He plans to pursue a career in preventive medicine.

The Kent-Holbert Scholarship was established in 2014 through the estate of Mrs. Jean Holbert Kent in honor of Kenneth Nelson Kent, Summerson B. Holbert, and Nannie B. Landes Holbert. The renewable scholarship supports students pursuing higher education in healthcare or fields that support healthcare.

This year’s Kent-Holbert Scholarship recipients are Abigail McGhee and Jordan Bell, graduates of Staunton High School. Each received a $4,000 renewable scholarship award.

Abigail McGhee plans to study psychology and neuroscience to support children navigating grief and mental health challenges. Throughout high school, she was actively involved in the National Honor Society, Key Club, marching band, concert and symphonic band, and school musical productions.

Jordan Bell plans to attend Virginia Commonwealth University to study health sciences and pursue a career as a physician assistant. A dedicated student-athlete and leader, she was actively involved in basketball and other extracurricular activities throughout high school while balancing academics, athletics, work, and leadership opportunities.

“These bright students are the future of healthcare in our communities,” said Peggy Caister, Interim Philanthropy & Community Relations Director of Augusta Health Foundation. “We are proud to play a role in supporting their careers, and grateful to community donors whose generosity makes a lasting impact across our region.”

Through community generosity, Augusta Health Foundation strengthens the health system’s capacity to grow programs, services, education, and workforce development initiatives throughout the Shenandoah Valley. To learn more about Augusta Health Foundation and ways to support future healthcare professionals, visit Augusta Health Foundation.

About Augusta Health Foundation
Augusta Health Foundation serves as the charitable arm of Augusta Health. The Foundation secures philanthropic support to strengthen the health system’s ability to care for all people in our communities. Generous contributions to Augusta Health Foundation fund new programs and services, state-of-the-art equipment, education, vital outreach and more. For more information, visit ahfoundation.augustahealth.com or contact ahfoundation@augustahealth.com.