Jupiter Community High School’s Macy McAmis Named 2026 Orange Bowl Beigel-Feis-Hixon Valor Award Scholarship Recipient
Annual award honors the sacrifice of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Coaches
MIAMI LAKES, Fla. (May 26, 2026) – The Orange Bowl Committee is honored to announce Macy McAmis, a senior at Jupiter Community High School, as the ninth recipient of the prestigious Orange Bowl Beigel-Feis-Hixon Valor Award.
Macy has demonstrated extraordinary resilience, perseverance and courage after surviving a near-fatal drowning accident as a child. Rather than allowing the experience to define her, Macy used it as motivation to grow stronger both personally and athletically, becoming a standout volleyball player, dedicated student and role model in her community.
The annual Orange Bowl Beigel-Feis-Hixon Valor Award honors the sacrifice of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School coaches Scott Beigel, Aaron Feis and Chris Hixon. These courageous men lost their lives protecting their students and colleagues during the tragedy that occurred on February 14, 2018.
The award recognizes an outstanding South Florida student-athlete who exemplifies valor and perseverance in the face of adversity, and includes a $10,000 scholarship.
“The Orange Bowl Committee is proud to present Macy McAmis with the 2026 Orange Bowl Beigel-Feis-Hixon Valor Award,” said Orange Bowl Committee President & Chair, Mike Moran. “Macy’s ability to overcome adversity with strength, humility and determination is truly inspiring. Her leadership on and off the court, along with her commitment to helping others, embodies the spirit of this award.”
In 2018, Macy survived a traumatic drowning accident that left her hospitalized and undergoing months of physical therapy and counseling. Determined not to let fear control her future, Macy returned to the activities she loved and found strength through volleyball, which became an outlet during her recovery process.
Since then, Macy has excelled both academically and athletically at Jupiter Community High School, earning recognition as one of South Florida’s top volleyball players while also becoming involved with organizations focused on drowning prevention awareness. Her journey reflects resilience, leadership and a commitment to making a positive impact on those around her.
Looking Ahead
Macy will be officially recognized during the 2027 College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Capital One Orange Bowl at Hard Rock Stadium on January 14, 2027. This fall, she will continue her academic and athletic career at Auburn University, where she will play volleyball while pursuing her future goals. The Orange Bowl Committee congratulates Macy on this well-deserved achievement and wishes her continued success in the future.
Orange Bowl Beigel-Feis-Hixon Valor Award Recipients:
- 2018: Travis Julmice, Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School
- 2019: Christopher Volpe, Jupiter High School
- 2020: Kimberly Slinkosky, Cooper City High School
- 2021: Ashley Moon, Miami Springs Senior High School
- 2022: Alcivial Henrisme, Glades Central High School
- 2023: Angelica Deribeaux, Palmer Trinity School
- 2024: Ella Gertz, Saint Thomas Aquinas High School
- 2025: Shaun Cupas Shapiro, South Broward High School
- 2026: Macy McAmis, Jupiter High School
For more information, please visit orangebowl.org.
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About Orange Bowl
The Orange Bowl Committee is a non-profit sports organization fueled by more than 400 dedicated volunteers. Since its inception in 1935, the Orange Bowl has remained steadfast in its mission to drive tourism and economic impact for South Florida through world-class events and collegiate athletics. Beyond the gridiron, the organization’s legacy is defined by Orange Bowl Cares, a comprehensive community outreach initiative built on four pillars: Youth Sports, Education, Community Engagement, and Legacy Programs.
