SPRINGDALE, Ark. – As classrooms buzzed back to life this fall, United Federal Credit Union (United) helped two northwest Arkansas science teachers kick off the school year with a surprise that sparked joy and possibility.
Through its annual 2025 Home Room Makeover Sweepstakes, United’s Springdale and Rogers branches awarded $500 Visa gift cards to two deserving educators: Erin DeLeeuw of Archer Learning Center in Springdale and Karley Reynolds of Birch Kirksey Middle School in Rogers.
Karley Reynolds, Birch Kirksey Middle School winner, being awarded the $500 Home Room Makeover during her 7th grade class.
“We know how important our teachers are in our communities. United is proud to support two outstanding educators in northwest Arkansas,” said Stephanie Riffle, Arkansas Market Vice President. “Our commitment goes beyond financial support. We’re excited to continue volunteering in both school districts, working alongside teachers and students to promote financial literacy and more.”
The contest, held throughout August and into September, was designed to recognize teachers who often go above and beyond, spending their own money to create engaging learning environments.
Karley Reynolds, a 7th grade science teacher, was thrilled to win and will use her award to offset the cost of new curriculum materials that will bring hands-on learning to life for her students.
L to R: Jeremy Yates, Birch Kirksey Middle School Principal, Karley Reynolds, Birch Kirksey Middle School winner, Kyly Hathaway, United Senior Market Development Manager, Stacy Warren, Promenade Branch Manager. Photo courtesy of Rogers Public Schools.
Erin DeLeeuw, who teaches science at Archer Learning Center, plans to use her $500 to purchase new storage solutions for her classroom’s growing collection of science supplies.
L to R: Maria Balderas, United South Thompson Branch Manager, Springdale winner Erin DeLeeuw, and Kyle Hathaway, United Senior Market Development Manager. Photo courtesy of Archer Learning Center Assistant Principal.
“Seeing the excitement on Karley’s face and hearing Erin’s plans for her classroom was incredibly rewarding,” added Kyle Hathaway, Senior Market Development Manager. “Teachers are the heartbeat of our schools, and we’re honored to help them create spaces where students can thrive.”
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About United
United Federal Credit Union has served its Members since 1949 by helping them to build a sound financial future. United consists of more than 194,000 Member/owners worldwide and manages assets in excess of $4.0 billion. Its corporate office and main branch are in St. Joseph, Mich., with additional branches in Arkansas, Indiana, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio and Pennsylvania.
