Page 14 - South Mississippi Living - September, 2025

COAST NOTE
Enhancing Learning, One Grant at a Time
story by Lynn Lofton
Applications for the 2026 Leo W. Seal Innovative Teacher Grants are now available online at www.mgccf.org/grants with a deadline of September 30. Certified K-12 teachers
at public and private schools in the Mississippi counties with Hancock Whitney locations—Forrest, Hancock, Harrison, Jackson, Jefferson Davis, Lamar, Madison, and Pearl River—are eligible to apply.
Funded by Hancock Whitney and administered by
the Gulf Coast Community Foundation (GCCF), the Seal grants recognize up to 10 outstanding teachers with individual one-time grants of up to $2,000 for creative teaching proposals enhancing students’ learning experiences.
The awards also pay tribute to the community commitment of the late Leo W. Seal, Sr., the bank’s president from 1932 until 1963, and his son, the late Leo W. Seal, Jr., the company’s chief executive for 45 years. Hancock Whitney and GCCF will recognize 2026 grant recipients and present grants at an awards luncheon during the first quarter of 2026.
To apply, teachers submit full project proposals, detailing how their projects can enhance students’ educational experiences. The application timeline facilitates funding to activate winning projects for the spring 2026 academic schedule.
GCCF coordinates the selection of grant recipients by an independent committee of business, community, and educational representatives not affiliated with Hancock Whitney.
Hancock Whitney
www.hancockwhitney.com paul.maxwell@hancockwhitney.com
INFINITY Remembers
Honoring Community Heroes
story by Lynn Lofton
photo courtesy of INFINITY Science Center
For the third year INFINITY Science Center in Hancock County is recognizing military personnel, first responders and teachers at INFINITY Remembers: Honoring Community Heroes. The date is September 8, 5 to 7 p.m.
“Join us at INFINITY Science Center for a heartfelt evening dedicated to the heroes in our community,” says event planner Alex Wenyon. “We’re opening our doors after hours to show appreciation for the everyday champions who make a difference.”
First responders, military personnel, and teachers have free admission. Family and friends are welcome at a special rate of $10 per person. Children three and under are free.
“Those attending will enjoy light refreshments and a welcoming space to connect and celebrate,” Wenyon said. “Come explore, unwind, and let us say thank you. All exhibits outside and inside will be open. We want everyone to come have a fun night and we’re hoping for a large crowd.”
INFINITY Science Center
One Discovery Cir., Pearlington www.visitinfinity.com • awenyon@visitinfinity.com 228.533.9025
14 | September 2025 www.smliving.net | SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living