EXTON, PA — Citadel Credit Union has celebrated 32 extraordinary educators with its 2025 Citadel Heart of Learning Awards, distributing over $85,000 in grants to recognize their outstanding contributions to education. This year’s grant funding reflects a 44% increase, continuing Citadel’s 24-year commitment to strengthening education across Greater Philadelphia.
Since its inception in 2001 in partnership with the Chester County Intermediate Unit, the Heart of Learning Awards has honored teachers for their dedication and impact in the classroom. Selected from thousands of nominations, each recipient this year received a signature glass heart and a $1,000 grant. For the first time, six Grand Prize winners were recognized—double the number from previous years. Each grand prize winner received $5,000, with an additional $5,000 granted to their school.
Among this year’s winners are Justin Fachet of Tinicum Elementary in Bucks County, celebrated for his supportive classroom environment; Jackie Mavrelos of Oxford Area High School in Chester County, honored for her mentorship and guidance; and Stacey Kucera of Chester Charter Scholars Academy in Delaware County, recognized for going above and beyond to meet students’ emotional and academic needs.
The Traci Watson Heart Award, established in memory of a Citadel program pioneer, went to Charlie Speicher of Cole Manor Elementary in Montgomery County for his inspiring creativity and unwavering dedication.
Citadel CEO Bill Brown highlighted the program’s deep roots in community giving. “These awards reflect our commitment to honoring those shaping brighter futures. The incredible work of these educators extends far beyond the classroom, and we are privileged to recognize their contributions.”
Through its Citadel Cares initiative, the credit union has now distributed nearly $600,000 in grants since the program began, exemplifying its dedication to education and community development.
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