Educators at the heart of PEMCO, then and now

Teachers are some of the most influential people in our lives. 

Many of us can point to an educator who helped shape our perspective, built our confidence, or opened a door we hadn’t yet imagined. Their impact often extends far beyond the classroom; into careers, communities, and futures. 

At PEMCO, educators have shaped our journey from the very beginning. 

Founded by an educator, guided by education 

PEMCO financial services was founded in 1936 by Robert J. Handy, a math and journalism teacher at Franklin High School in Seattle. Handy believed educators deserved financial services designed for their needs, and he helped create an educator-owned credit union to do just that. 

A little more than a decade later, seeing additional gaps teachers faced, Handy expanded those services to include home and auto insurance for fellow educators. In 1949, PEMCO Insurance was born.  

In 1967, Handy established the PEMCO Foundation to support public education and communities across the Pacific Northwest by funding scholarships for students, educator grants and the Golden Apple Awards as well as other donations. His successor, Stanley O. McNaughton, shared that educator’s mindset as a professor of economics at Seattle University. 

Education isn’t just part of PEMCO’s history; it’s part of our DNA. 

Supporting educators today 

That legacy continues through our ongoing support of Washington’s educators; those guiding schools, classrooms, and students today. 

Through partnerships with statewide education organizations, PEMCO helps recognize and celebrate excellence in education, including: 

• The Robert J. Handy Most Effective Administrator Awards, presented in partnership with the Washington Association of School Administrators to outstanding principals and superintendents 
• Golden Apple Moments, honoring inspiring educators whose dedication helps students thrive 
• Robert J. Handy Scholarships, awarded through the Washington State School Retirees Association to high school seniors pursuing careers in education 

These programs reflect a shared belief: when we support educators, we strengthen entire communities. 

Literacy, learning, and community partnerships 

Our commitment to youth and education — one of PEMCO’s Mutual Good focus areas — also comes to life through literacy initiatives that meet students where they are. 

PEMCO has longstanding relationships with the Seattle Public Library Foundation, student support programs through Reading Partners and Communities in Schools. Through partnerships with the Seattle Seahawks and Cal Raleigh of the Seattle Mariners,PEMCO supports literacy programs that make reading fun, accessible, and engaging for kids across Washington. From school-based reading challenges to community literacy celebrations, these efforts help encourage lifelong learning, inside and outside the classroom. 

Educators are central to that work. Whether cheering on a classroom reading milestone or inspiring confidence in a reluctant reader, teachers help bring these programs to life every day. 

Partner spotlight: Cascade PBS and Golden Apple Moments 

During Teacher Appreciation Week, we’re proud to highlight our longtime partner Cascade PBS and their Golden Apple Moments program. 

For more than 30 years, Golden Apple Moments has recognized hundreds of exceptional educators across Washington, teachers who go above and beyond for their students and communities. Their dedication has helped create brighter futures for learners from PreK through 12th grade. 

You can explore past and current Golden Apple Moments recipients and follow Cascade PBS on Facebook and Instagram as new honorees are announced throughout the year. 

Thank you, educators 

This Teacher Appreciation Week—and all year long—we thank educators for the care, patience, and persistence they bring to their work. Your influence helps shape confident learners, informed citizens, and stronger communities. 

 We're honored to stand alongside you.