The Wharf Awards Scholarship to Exceptional Gulf Shores High School Student

R. Ken Cooper • April 30, 2024

Dianna Moore Wins $10,000 Scholarship from The Wharf

Photo of the 2024 Wharf Scholarship Winner and her Friends.

Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – The Wharf announced on Monday that Dianna Moore, a senior at Gulf Shores High School, has been awarded a $10,000 scholarship. The Wharf is a popular shopping and entertainment destination in Orange Beach.


Kristen Hammack, management team leader, The Wharf states, “Dianna exemplified the characteristics of an ‘exceptional student,’ and we are proud to celebrate her accomplishments and involvement. Each of the applicants were standout students and have certainly contributed to the community while also prioritizing their studies. The Wharf believes in supporting our future leaders and commends the Class of 2024 for their achievements.”


Moore has maintained a 4.0 GPA, scored a 31 on her ACT, and excelled in athletics as part of the Gulf Shores High School Volleyball Team. She has also been involved in various community service projects, including Friends of Exceptional Students, Peer Helpers, Sustainability Academy, Coastal Cleanup, Prodisee Pantry, and Shrimp Festival. Her passion for environmental preservation guided multiple projects for the community, including the creation of a pollinator garden with an irrigation system for Gulf Shores Elementary School, Oyster Restoration project, Little Lagoon Water Quality testing and Dune Restoration projects. 


Moore has combined her love of the environment and her heart for special needs children to design and build a sensory wall at Gulf Shores Middle School for special needs students. She has also worked multiple years at local food establishments and serves as a tutor at Gulf Shores Middle School.


"Dianna is a natural leader, the perfect ambassador for our school system and community, and a brilliant and well-spoken young woman," said Jessica Sampley, the Academics and CTE Director for Gulf Shores City Schools.


Moore plans to attend the University of West Florida and pursue a degree in Biomedical Sciences. In addition to the $10,000 first-place scholarship, a runner-up award of $500 was given to Riley Mellett, a senior at Daphne High School.


The Wharf's scholarship program is in its fourth year. "The Wharf believes in supporting our future leaders and commends the Class of 2024 for their achievements," said Kristen Hammock, the management team leader at The Wharf.

Share this article w/ Friends...

January Events Bring Art, Travel and Games to Seniors
By OBA Staff December 14, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — The Orange Beach Senior Center has scheduled a series of January activities aimed at keeping older adults active and connected. The programs include art classes, guided outings, and a music bingo night, with most registrations available online or at the center. These events provide opportun
SS United States Reef Project Moves Closer to Sink Date
By OBA Staff December 14, 2025
Okaloosa County has approved another funding increase for the effort to sink the SS United States as an artificial reef off Destin‑Fort Walton Beach. Commissioners backed an amendment to the county’s contract with Coleen Marine Inc., the company handling remediation, preparation, transport, and deployment of the ship.
Last Mango Bar & Chill to Bring a Taste of Margaritaville to The Wharf
By johnmawake December 13, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — A well-known brand is bringing its special island magic to Orange Beach. The Wharf is about to get a lively new addition to its heart. This new venue promises to be a fun spot for everyone. It will sit right in the center of the action around Marlin Circle.
Gulf Shores And Orange Beach Host Annual E-Cycling And Shred Day
By OBA Staff December 13, 2025
Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — The cities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are inviting residents to gather their old gadgets and paperwork for a free community event. Officials say the Annual E-Cycling and Shred Day is designed to protect both the environment and personal information. Residents will be able to recycle...
Red Snapper Season Reopens For Charter Boats in Gulf Waters
By OBA Staff December 12, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — The federal red snapper season for charter and headboat anglers in the Gulf is getting a second act to close out 2025. NOAA Fisheries has decided to reopen the recreational for hire season in federal waters. The move comes after scientists reviewed updated catch data. Officials say there...
Holiday Fun Shines At Tacky Jacks In Orange Beach And Gulf Shores
By OBA Staff December 12, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Tacky Jacks is kicking off the holiday season with a full lineup of family events at its Orange Beach and Gulf Shores locations. Families can enjoy tacky sweaters, live music, Santa visits, reindeer rides, and a lighted boat parade on the water. The celebrations are designed for all ages.
Foley Firefighters See New Paths To Advance
By OBA Staff December 12, 2025
Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Foley city leaders are changing how the Fire Department is organized to open more doors for local firefighters. A new structure will add ranks between entry-level jobs and top officers. Officials say the plan will reward experience, support morale and strengthen public safety. The change has...
Mobile Man Arrested Following Shooting Investigation In Foley
By OBA Staff December 11, 2025
Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Law enforcement officials have taken a man into custody following a shooting earlier this week in Foley. The arrest comes after a detailed investigation into the shooting. Officers worked quickly to track down the person they believe is responsible. The suspect now faces serious charges related...
Dredging Work Moves Forward At Perdido Pass
By OBA Staff December 11, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Maintenance dredging is currently underway at Perdido Pass to ensure the busy waterway remains clear and safe for navigation. The project, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, began in late November and is expected to be completed before Christmas, weather permitting.
Orange Beach Search And Rescue Operations Get High-Tech Boost
By OBA Staff December 11, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — The Orange Beach Fire Rescue team has taken a significant step forward in public safety by upgrading their rescue capabilities with advanced sonar technology. The Public Safety Dive Team recently gathered for hands-on training with the new equipment, which includes towfish side-scan and...
Show More