Roberts honored as ABAC Outstanding Young Alumnus

Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College has named Haley Roberts as the recipient of its 2026 Outstanding Young Alumnus Award, recognizing graduates ages 40 and younger for excellence in their careers, service to their communities and continued support of the college.

The award was presented by alumna Kaytlyn Cobb, class of 2016, during the college’s annual alumni celebration on April 10.

Roberts, a 2016 graduate of ABAC, earned a bachelor’s degree in business and economic development and completed her degree with magna cum laude honors. As a student, she received the J.G. Woodroof Scholar Award and participated in Ag Communicators of Tomorrow.

Her professional path began with an internship at a State Farm agency in Sylvester, where her performance led to a full-time opportunity. Within a short time, she completed the requirements to open her own agency in Tifton, becoming one of the youngest agents appointed in the region.

Today, Roberts leads a six-member team at her agency, directing daily operations that include marketing, staffing, payroll, and employee development. Under her leadership, the business has been ranked among the top performers in its territory and has received multiple distinctions, including Ambassador Club and Honor Club recognition.

Roberts remains active in civic and professional organizations. She is a graduate of Leadership Tifton and holds memberships in the Tifton-Tift County Chamber of Commerce and the National Federation of Independent Business. Her community involvement includes support for organizations such as the American Red Cross, Patticake House, and Called to Care. Her volunteer efforts range from holiday fundraising initiatives to organizing supply drives for children and foster families.

She also maintains strong ties with ABAC by engaging with current students. Roberts frequently visits the Stafford School of Business as a guest speaker and participates in career events, where she connects with and mentors students. Several former students have gone on to join her team.

For those who want to emulate Roberts but are not sure where to start, Hillery Culpepper, development officer at ABAC, offered the following advice:

“Being involved in the alumni association is all that you make it and want it to be,” Culpepper said. “For some, it is giving financially. For others, it is attending events on campus and providing opportunities for students beyond their classroom walls. Whether you want to start big or small, simply starting is the most important thing.”

Roberts has credited ABAC with shaping her personal and professional foundation, citing the accessibility of faculty, affordability and lasting relationships formed during her time as a student.

“Being named the Outstanding Young Alumnus for ABAC this year is both humbling and motivating,” Roberts said. “It reminds me of the impact my alma mater has had on my life and challenges me to continue growing, serving and making a difference in the years ahead. It is also proof that success can come from roots nurtured at ABAC and not only large universities.”

The Outstanding Young Alumnus Award highlights graduates who demonstrate leadership, achievement and a commitment to giving back, qualities Roberts continues to exemplify in her career and community.