Exton – November 06, 2026 -- Students, parents and colleagues in southeastern Pennsylvania can nominate a teacher for the 2026-27 Citadel Heart of Learning Awards until January 15, 2027. Citadel Credit Union will recognize more than 35 educators and provide $100,000 in personal awards and school grants.
Every winner gets cash, a school grant and a glass heart
Each recipient receives a personal monetary award, a grant for their school and Citadel's signature glass heart award. Winners will be surprised and recognized during spring celebrations.
Nominations are open to students, parents, fellow educators, school administrators and community members. The program covers public and private schools in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Lancaster, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties, plus adjacent communities in southeastern Pennsylvania.
Five ways to nominate a teacher
- Submit a nomination online by January 15, 2027.
- Share the story of a teacher who has inspired students or strengthened a school community.
- Follow Citadel's social media channels for stories about past recipients.
- Post a video nomination on TikTok, Instagram or Facebook. Tag @citadelcreditunion on TikTok or @CitadelBanking on Instagram and Facebook, and use #CitadelHeartofLearning.
- Visit a Nomination Station at participating Citadel branches.
Nomination posters and QR codes will be available at schools and Citadel branches across the region.
The program has awarded more than $700,000 since 2000
Citadel launched the awards in 2000 and has since recognized more than 465 educators. Together they have received more than $700,000 in awards and school grants.
Kimberly McFadden, a 2025-26 Grand Prize Winner and science teacher at McCaskey High School in the School District of Lancaster, said the honor was "really, really meaningful." She added that she was grateful to the colleagues who nominated her.
Michael Andrews, a first-grade teacher at General George A. McCall School in Philadelphia, also won in 2025-26. He said the recognition stirred his soul.