BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — ēCO Credit Union and the ēCO Credit Union Foundation are committed to supporting the educational efforts of their membership. This May, ēCO Credit Union proudly awarded two A.L. Bratcher Scholarships, valued at $2,500 each. The ēCO Credit Union Foundation additionally provided one scholarship of $2,500 to promote the pursuit of higher education.
The A.L. Bratcher Scholarship has been awarded to distinguished high school seniors since 2011 to recognize their achievements and potential. The 2026-2027 A.L. Bratcher Scholarship recipients are Anna Kate Smith and Adelynn Smith. Anna Kate Smith is a senior at Corner High School, where she has excelled academically with an impressive GPA of 4.2 and will graduate with an advanced academic diploma. In addition to her academic achievements, Anna Kate is actively involved in her community through a variety of service opportunities, including her school’s Jingle Bell Rock, Mission of Hope, and church feeding events. Anna Kate plans to attend Northwest Shoals Community College and pursue a career in sonography. Adelynn Smith is set to graduate from Shelby County High School with an exceptional GPA of 4.3, reflecting her strong academic commitment and work ethic. Adelynn learned at an early age the importance of serving others. Beyond the classroom, she has demonstrated meaningful leadership and service through her volunteer work with Special Olympics and Vacation Bible School, as well as her role as a tutor. Inspired by these values, she developed a passion for dentistry and aspires to provide compassionate dental care to individuals facing difficult life circumstances. Adelynn plans to attend The University of Alabama to pursue studies in business and microbiology on a pre-dental track.
The ēCO Credit Union Foundation Scholarship, established in 2017, is designed to support individuals who are returning to school to pursue a new career path or to strengthen their skills in their current profession. Lynn Lando is the ēCO Credit Union Foundation Scholarship recipient. With 16 years of experience in education, most recently as an instructional assistant with Jefferson County Schools, Lynn is preparing to transition from classroom support into developing and implementing instructional strategies that help students reach their full potential. Lynn is deeply committed to helping students overcome learning challenges, develop a love for reading, and build confidence in their abilities. Lynn aspires to become a teacher and reading interventionist and is dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of her students each day.
“Year after year, we are inspired by the commitment and ambition shown by applicants for our A.L. Bratcher and ēCO Credit Union Foundation scholarships,” said ēCO Credit Union CEO Joey Hand. “Supporting these members in their educational pursuits is one of the most meaningful ways we can help strengthen our community as they build brighter futures.”
Applications for the 2027-2028 scholarship cycle will be available in December.