Hancock Whitney Supports Educators with New Round of Leo Seal Teacher Grant

Teachers across eight Mississippi counties have an opportunity to earn up to $20,000 in grant funding through the Leo Seal Teacher Grant program. Certified K–12 educators working in public or private schools located in Forrest, Hancock, Harrison, Jackson, Jefferson Davis, Lamar, Madison, and Pearl River counties are eligible to apply.

The program, funded by Hancock Whitney and managed by the Gulf Coast Community Foundation, aims to support innovative teaching ideas that enrich the classroom and align with Mississippi’s educational standards. Each year, up to 10 educators are selected to receive one-time grants for creative proposals that help elevate students’ learning experiences.

The grant honors the lasting legacy of Leo W. Seal, Sr., who led Hancock Whitney as president from 1932 until his death in 1963, and his son, Leo W. Seal, Jr., who served as the company’s chief executive for more than four decades. The program reflects their deep commitment to education, leadership, and community service.

Recipients of the 2026 grants will be formally recognized at a special awards luncheon during the first quarter of the year. The event will highlight the educators’ contributions and the innovative classroom efforts made possible through this funding opportunity.