(Columbia, SC) – Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union, as part of their partnership with Gamecock Athletics, announces the conclusion of the third annual Teacher of the Game program. Launched in 2023, the season-long initiative spotlights K-12 teachers who demonstrate exceptional commitment to their students, schools and communities.
This year’s program recognized seven South Carolina educators at home games throughout the 2025 University of South Carolina football season. Each honoree received $1,000 from Palmetto Citizens, four game tickets and in-stadium recognition on the video board and loudspeakers.
2025 Teacher of the Game Honorees
- Natasha Hart Washington: William J. Clark Middle School, Orangeburg
- Jordan Atkinson: Blythewood Middle School, Blythewood
- Erica Scriven: Hand Middle School, Columbia
- Stacey McGee: Camden High School, Camden
- Amy Gambrell: White Knoll Middle School, West Columbia
- Tiffany Ross: Cayce Elementary School, Cayce
- Christopher Carroll: Dutch Fork High School, Irmo
“Palmetto Citizens was founded by local educators nearly 90 years ago, and that legacy still guides our work today,” says Emilie Lewis, director of community engagement. “These honorees represent the outstanding work being done by educators in South Carolina’s schools, and we are proud to celebrate the impact they make every day.”
Since its founding in 1936 as the Columbia Teachers Credit Union, Palmetto Citizens remains dedicated to education and community support. The Teacher of the Game program is one of several initiatives that celebrates the lasting impact of teachers and reflects the mission and legacy at the heart of Palmetto Citizens.
