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Citadel Credit Union Celebrates 25 Years of Honoring Educators

In a proud moment during American Education Week, Citadel Credit Union is commemorating the 25th anniversary of its acclaimed Citadel Heart of Learning Awards (CHOLA). This milestone not only marks the accomplishments of the program but also highlights its ongoing impact on teachers and students throughout the Greater Philadelphia area. Over these years, the initiative has honored more than 430 local educators, distributing nearly $600,000 in grants aimed at supporting and enhancing educational experiences.

The Significance of the Heart of Learning Awards

The CHOLA program has proven to be more than just an awards ceremony; it's a lifeline for innovative teaching and community engagement. A recent survey administered by Citadel revealed the tangible effects CHOLA has had on the educational landscape. An impressive 92% of educators remarked that receiving the award encouraged them to remain in the teaching profession for a longer duration. Furthermore, 87% shared that it has spurred the creation of new educational projects in their respective schools. Grants provided through CHOLA directly funded enhancements ranging from STEM materials to mental wellness initiatives, showcasing the program's commitment to addressing diverse educational needs.

One enthusiastic recipient reflected, "Winning the Heart of Learning Award reminded me why I chose this profession. It wasn't just recognition; it was renewal. My students realized that hard work and kindness truly make a difference, transforming the atmosphere in our classroom."

This sentiment was echoed by Brian Chenger, Principal of Coatesville Area Senior High School, who expressed how the recognition elevates morale within schools. "The Citadel Heart of Learning Award showcases the extraordinary dedication of teachers and serves as a reminder of the compassionate commitment that defines great education. When educators are honored, it inspires everyone—students, colleagues, and families—to foster a culture of excellence and kindness."

Kickoff of the 25-Year Celebration

To celebrate this significant milestone, Citadel is launching a multi-week campaign that began during American Education Week (which runs from November 17 to 21) and continues until January 15, 2026. This campaign aims to honor past CHOLA winners while inviting new nominations to join in the legacy of celebrated educators. Throughout this period, Citadel plans to utilize its social media platforms to showcase stories of past winners across several counties, demonstrating how the acknowledgment can instigate positive changes and inspire future innovations in teaching.

Bill Brown, President and CEO of Citadel Credit Union, stated, "American Education Week is the perfect opportunity to recognize the educators who bolster our communities. For 25 years, the Citadel Heart of Learning Awards have celebrated the teachers who go above and beyond for their students. This survey affirms that recognition fuels innovation in education, inspiring future generations of educators."

Citadel is also enhancing accessibility for community members to submit nominations by providing forms and QR codes at Citadel branches and schools, leading to easier electronic submission methods. Moreover, individuals can contribute nominations via written formats or through short videos on social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, or Facebook by tagging @citadelcreditunion or @CitadelBanking, alongside using the hashtag #CitadelHeartofLearning.

Local events termed “Nomination Stations” will occur at select schools and libraries, granting additional opportunities for community engagement during the nomination process.

Steve Miller, Vice President of Philanthropy and Community Engagement at Citadel, argued that teacher acknowledgment is crucial. "Teachers are the backbone of our communities. Our survey highlights how meaningful recognition can be; it’s an investment that echoes far beyond the classroom."

How Community Members Can Engage

Community members are encouraged to participate through the following avenues:

• - Submit nominations at CitadelBanking.com/Nominate before January 15, 2026.
• - Follow the stories on Citadel’s social media channels using #HeartOfLearning25 during the campaign.
• - Share video nominations on social media platforms, tagging relevant accounts and using the designated hashtags.
• - Visit a Nomination Station at selected community locations for an in-person submission.

About the Citadel Heart of Learning Awards

Since its inception in 2000, the Citadel Heart of Learning Awards have recognized outstanding teachers who exhibit exceptional devotion within and beyond the classroom. Every year, Citadel honors over 30 finalists and grants multiple winners across the regions of Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Lancaster, Montgomery, and Philadelphia, providing both personal awards and school-based funding to foster continued educational excellence.

About Citadel Credit Union

Citadel Credit Union stands out as a not-for-profit, member-owned financial entity serving over 275,000 members in the aforementioned counties, with assets exceeding $6.5 billion. It is dedicated to promoting financial wellness and the enrichment of community, recognized as one of America’s Best Regional Banks and Credit Unions by Newsweek and Plant-A Insights Group in 2024, as well as being certified as a Great Place to Work for seven consecutive years. Citadel continues to invest resources into educational initiatives and community development. More information can be found at CitadelBanking.com.