Scholarships for Educators
$5,000 AWARDED TO GEORGIA EDUCATORS
The Frank Thach Scholarship for educators seeking advanced degrees pays homage to the roots of Georgia United Credit Union. This initiative honors the legacy of supporting teachers by providing financial assistance to those furthering their education. It's a testament to Georgia United's enduring commitment to the educational community, acknowledging its origins as a credit union dedicated to serving and uplifting teachers.
Congratulations to the 2026 Winners!
We are excited to announce the five educators who will each be awarded a $1,000 scholarship! These dedicated teachers are making a difference every day in Georgia public schools while also working hard to earn advanced degrees in teaching or education.
Join us in celebrating the accomplishments of these passionate teachers and the incredible work they do every day.
Stanley McCormick - Miller Grove Middle School
As a veteran educator serving English learners in his school, Stanley McCormick has championed equity for all students in his community. Stanley has been awarded a Georgia United Scholarship that will allow him to pursue a degree in Educational Leadership at Georgia College & State University
In his roles as Lead ESOL Teacher, English Language Coordinator and Athletic Director at Miller Grove Middle School in DeKalb County, Stanley empowers students through differentiated instruction and encouraged colleagues to create student-centered environments. Stanley channels his passion for mentorship by presenting Georgia Assessments for Certified Educators (GACE) and certification workshops, supporting fellow educators in their journey to become certified and strengthening the professional community.
Holly Salazar - Otwell Middle School
Holly Salazar is a passionate educator and lifelong learner committed to curriculum innovation and resource sharing. As the Lead 6th grade English teacher at Otwell Middle School in Forsyth County, Holly aims to deepen her expertise in curriculum design and implementation, especially in her STEM certified school.
Known among colleagues as the go-to person for educational resources, Holly strived to create and share materials that support students and educators in her community. As the leader of her Professional Learning Community, Holly is a role model for ongoing professional growth and inspires others to embrace lifelong learning. Holly is a first-generation college student and honored to advance her education through a master's degree in education for Curriculum and Instruction at the University of North Georgia.
Kasay McWhorter - Hilsman Middle School
Kasay McWhorter, an IEP Case Manager and reading interventionist at Hilsman Middle School in Clarke County, is a committed advocate for students with disabilities. The Georgia United educator scholarship will allow Kasay to pursue an Education Specialist degree at the University of West Georgia, allowing her to teach with both expertise and compassion.
Her career journey includes roles as Teacher of the Deaf and interrelated ELA teacher, each reflecting her commitment to evidence-based instruction and ongoing advocacy for her students. Kasay is passionate about instilling confidence in her students, helping them to overcome frustration and self-doubt to believe they are capable learners.
Premlata Miller - New Hope Elementary School
With 22 years of counseling experience, Premlata Miller serves as the School Counselor at New Hope Elementary School in Henry County. Her compassionate approach shines in her work with trauma-affected students, where she will utilize her degree in Community Care and Counseling from Liberty University with an emphasis on traumatology to provide vital support. Premlata connects families with resources, ensuring that students receive holistic care in times of need.
As a mentor to others in her field and a member of the District’s Counselor Leadership Team, she guides colleagues and empowers the next generation of counselors. She is committed to fostering a trauma-informed school culture. Under her leadership, New Hope Elementary achieved the prestigious Recognized ASCA Model Program (RAMP) designation due to a robust and data-informed approach to supporting students.
Tenecia Fears - Trip Elementary School
Tenecia Fears’ leadership and vision have made a lasting impact across her district. Tenecia takes on multiple responsibilities in her role at Trip Elementary School in Gwinnett County. As a county-level content lead, Title I programs coordinator, PBIS committee member and coordinator for professional development and leadership recruitment, Tenecia strives to create collaborative school communities through leadership.
Tenecia is pursuing an Education Specialist Degree in Elementary Education at the University of West Georgia, supported by the Georgia United Scholarship. After becoming gifted certified in 2023, Tenecia felt called to grow as a teacher leader, inspired by educators whose influence extends past their classrooms. Tenecia’s continued education is shaped by her belief that “the learning never ends.”