Citadel Credit Union has recognized 35 Greater Philadelphia teachers for going above and beyond and truly "building strength in education" as part of the company’s program.
A Worcester Elementary School math specialist was named a Citadel Credit Union Heart of Learning Award Winner.
Cyndi Kirschner was one of 10 awarded in the Elementary School category for 2023-24.
Kirschner is in her seventh year teaching at Methacton School District, and previously taught first grade at Eagleville, Arrowhead and Audubon elementary schools. She also served as reading specialist at Woodland Elementary School for three years.
The award winner and mother of two received her degree in mathematics from Colgate University and a master's in reading from University of New Hampshire.
Citadel Credit Union, a leading credit union serving the Greater Philadelphia area, has recognized 35 Greater Philadelphia teachers for going above and beyond and truly "building strength in education" as part of the company’s Citadel Heart of Learning Awards program. Since the awards' inception, the company has awarded the winners over $500,000 in grants enabling them to enhance their classrooms with new resources aimed at fostering educational excellence.
Citadel has a strong track record of giving back and making a difference for the communities it serves. Through the Citadel Cares program, Citadel donates funds and volunteer support to non-profits and charities across Greater Philadelphia with a focus on creating impactful prosperity and strength. Citadel’s efforts fall within four key pillars, demonstrating an established giving program: Education & Youth Prosperity, Health & Wellness, Building & Development, and Food Security.
The Citadel Heart of Learning Awards, established in 2001, honors exceptional teachers who inspire their students and make a significant impact on their communities. Each year, students, parents, and colleagues nominate thousands of teachers, with a select group of winners chosen based on their dedication, innovation, and commitment to education.
This year's winners each received our treasured glass heart award and a total of $60,000 in grants and prizes, including $10,000 for each of the three grand prize winners ($5,000 for the teacher and $5,000 for their school) and $1,000 for each of the remaining county level winners. Citadel also coordinated with the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU), who co-founded the program with Citadel 23 years ago, to recognize six additional district level winners from Chester County who received the glass heart award and a surprise ceremony from the CCIU.
"We are immensely proud of the Citadel Heart of Learning Awards and the incredible educators it celebrates,” said Bill Brown, President and CEO, Citadel Credit Union. “Reaching the half-million-dollar mark in donations underscores our long-term commitment to supporting teachers who are shaping the future through their passion and dedication. These teachers not only educate but also inspire and uplift their students, often going above and beyond their call of duty. It is our honor to recognize their extraordinary efforts and provide them with the resources they need to continue their invaluable work."
The 2024 Grand Prize Winners include:
Chassidy King, Marketing Teacher, Chester High School
Travis Lick, Math Teacher, G.W. Carver Middle School of Engineering and Science
Elizabeth Pandosh, Kindergarten Teacher, Kings Highway Elementary School
All other Citadel Heart of Learning Award 2023-24 Winners by Grade Level:
High School:
Victoria Duffy - 21st Century Cyber Charter School
Tracey Parker - Coatesville Area Senior High School
Matt McCloskey - Downingtown West High School
Doreen Steinmacher - Owen J Roberts High School
Daniel Weinstein - Phoenixville Area High School
Caihong Ye - Bishop Shanahan High School
Kim Guarneri - Avon Grove Charter School
John Achille - Lampeter-Strasburg High School
Robert Gregory - Avon Grove High School
Katie Oxenfeldt - Tredyffrin-Easttown Middle School
Brian Newbert - Belmont Charter High School
Middle School:
Natalie Handley - Downingtown Cyber Academy
Rory McMullen - Palisades Middle School
Carol Stem - Charles F. Patton Middle School
Mitch Hoffman - Peirce Middle School
Roseanna Fabii - Great Valley Middle School
Chiara Bouchard - Garnet Valley Middle School
Cara Weil - Hazel I Jackson Middle School
Natalie Cohen - Eisenhower Science & Technology Leadership Academy
Sue Subers - Pathway School
Joseph Coyle - Octorara Jr-Sr. High School
Tracy Gruin - Twin Valley Elementary
Elementary School:
Tiffany Hamilton - Tinicum Elementary School
Kerianne Darragh - Elk Ridge Elementary School
Andrea Roszits - Bancroft Elementary
Rita Trainer - Saints Peter and Paul School
Maureen Segal - Ithan Elementary
Greg Moore - Radnor Elementary
Anita Girvin - Salisbury Elementary School
Cyndi Kirschner - Worcester Elementary School
Meagan Carbonell - CCIU
Renee Butler - Sankofa Freedom Academy
The Citadel Heart of Learning Awards program started 23 years ago in partnership with the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU) to recognize local teachers who show dedication in and outside of the classroom with a unique sense of heart and dedication. The award also specifically spotlights teachers who go above and beyond to foster connection with students and ensure the desire to learn is never compromised. To nominate a local teacher who should be considered to win this award, visit CitadelBanking.com/NOMINATE.
