WASHINGTON—The Defense Credit Union Council has named the recipients of its 2026 George E. Myers (GEM) Scholarship (GEM), honoring four credit union professionals for their commitment to leadership development and continued growth within the credit union movement.
This year’s GEM Scholarship recipients and their selected programs are:
- Tyler Richards, Edwards Federal Credit Union – Consumer & Residential Mortgage Lending School
- Peter Kottwitz, Sentinel Federal Credit Union – Credit Union Management School
- Jinette Frasier, R-G Federal Credit Union – Credit Union Management School
- Ainsley McCarty, Fort Sill Federal Credit Union – Marketing & Business Development Certification School
DCUC formally recognized this year’s GEM recipients during its annual Defense Matters event held on March 3, 2026, at the Marriott Marquis in Washington.
“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.”
The GEM Scholarship provides financial support to volunteers, management, and staff of DCUC member credit unions, enabling them to pursue advanced education and training opportunities that strengthen both individual careers and institutional success.
Established in 1996, the George E. Myers Scholarship honors COL George E. Myers, USA (Ret.), who served as executive secretary of the Council from 1973–1986 and again from 1989–1990. He was inducted into DCUC’s Hall of Honor in 2000. Since 1997, DCUC has awarded 81 scholarships totaling more than $243,000, all funded through proceeds from DCUC’s annual Official White House Christmas Ornament Fundraiser.
This year’s ornament sales will run from August through December. For more information about the GEM Scholarship or DCUC’s Official White House Christmas Ornament Fundraiser, visit dcuc.org/GEM.