The Defense Credit Union Council just rolled out the red carpet for four rising stars in the credit union world, announcing the 2026 George E. Myers (GEM) Scholarship winners. These aren’t your everyday participants—they’re credit union professionals who’ve shown serious dedication to leveling up their skills and leading from the front.
Here’s who’s heading back to school on DCUC’s dime:
- Tyler Richards from Edwards Federal Credit Union is diving into the Consumer & Residential Mortgage Lending School
- Peter Kottwitz at Sentinel Federal Credit Union snagged a spot at Credit Union Management School
- Jinette Frasier from R-G Federal Credit Union is also hitting up Credit Union Management School
- Ainsley McCarty of Fort Sill Federal Credit Union will tackle the Marketing & Business Development Certification School
DCUC gave these scholarship winners their well-deserved shoutout during the annual Defense Matters event on March 3, 2026, at the Marriott Marquis in Washington, D.C. Think of it as the Oscars, but for credit union excellence.
“Investing in the education and development of our credit union professionals is essential to the long-term strength of our movement,” said Anthony Hernandez, DCUC President/CEO. “Each of these scholarship recipients exemplify dedication, initiative, and a passion for service! We are honored to empower their journey through our GEM Scholarship and help drive meaningful impact within their credit unions and communities served.”
So what’s the GEM Scholarship all about? It’s basically a financial boost for volunteers, managers, and staff at DCUC member credit unions who want to pursue advanced training. The goal is simple: help good people become great leaders while strengthening their institutions in the process.
The scholarship has some history behind it too. Launched in 1996, it honors COL George E. Myers, USA (Ret.), who dedicated years to the Council as Executive Secretary from 1973 to 1986, and then came back for a second act from 1989 to 1990. He earned a spot in DCUC’s Hall of Honor in 2000, cementing his legacy in the credit union movement.
Since the program kicked off in 1997, DCUC has awarded 81 scholarships worth more than $243,000. Every dollar comes from proceeds from DCUC’s annual Official White House Christmas Ornament Fundraiser—proving that holiday shopping can actually fund someone’s career dreams.
Speaking of ornaments, this year’s sales run from August through December. Want to learn more about the GEM Scholarship or grab one of those ornaments for a good cause? Head over to dcuc.org/GEM.