Summit Credit Union, in partnership with the James V. and Elizabeth N. Hamilton Foundation, has been selected as a 2025 Partners in Philanthropy Award recipient by the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation.
In addition, Summit Credit Union received the Desjardins Award in recognition of its rebranded youth Elevation program.
The Partners in Philanthropy Award honors Elizabeth “Sis” Hamilton’s lifelong commitment to giving back. Sis dedicated more than seven decades to the credit union movement, championing cooperation, mentorship, and the belief that strong communities begin with strong credit unions.
In Sis’ honor, Summit Credit Union established the Hamilton Professional Development Grant Fund. Through the generous support of Summit Credit Union and the Hamilton Foundation, more than $230,000 has been committed to leadership and professional development opportunities for small credit unions throughout the Carolinas. These grants strengthen training initiatives, expand strategic capacity, and ensure smaller institutions have the resources needed to continue serving their members and communities.
The Desjardins Award recognizes credit unions for excellence in youth financial education. Summit Credit Union’s Elevation program equips young members with practical financial skills and real-world learning opportunities, helping build strong financial foundations for the next generation.
“Carrying forward Sis Hamilton’s remarkable legacy makes this Partners in Philanthropy award even more meaningful,” said Sam Whitehurst, President and CEO of Summit Credit Union. “Her spirit of service continues to inspire the work we do every day. These awards reflect what we believe at our core — people helping people. We are proud of our team, grateful for our partners, and thankful for the members and communities who make this work possible.”
The full list of 2025 honorees are available on the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation website.