If you are a local to the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area then you know the name of one of the most philanthropic people to ever step foot in Baldwin County and the beaches.

The atrium at Baldwin Preparatory Academy has been named after a man known for his generosity and lifelong commitment to putting others before himself.

W. Allen Cox was honored at the Baldwin County Board of Education superintendent's breakfast.

"My father's work has not only helped shape the landscape of Baldwin County from TimberCreek to Ono Island, but his greatest life has been his heart," said Cox's son, Nathan Cox. "He has poured into projects, organizations, and people that lift others up and make our County such a special place to call home. Baldwin Prep is one of those places.

By naming this atrium in his honor, we recognize not only a building, but the generations of students who will walk through it and benefit from opportunities made possible in part by his belief in giving back. By his example of living out — others before self."

The Cox Family Foundation donated the 70 acres where the school sits.

"The building we are in now at Baldwin Preparatory Academy is in part because of Mr. Allen Cox," said Superintendent Eddie Tyler. "I think it is unprecedented, I don't think you can go anywhere in the country where you can find the type of partnerships that we have formed with our stakeholders, our businesses and our industries. This dedication is our way of saying thank you for all you have done for Baldwin Preparatory and our school system."

The land donation was part of more than $40 million in land contributions the Foundation has made to Baldwin County Public Schools.

The family has also supported veterans' services, food access programs, substance abuse recovery efforts and community initiatives focused on restoring hope and meeting critical needs.

Cox was honored for his belief that blessings are meant to be shared, a belief that those who know him say he lives by every day.