BEL AIR, MD—Freedom Federal Credit Union, in collaboration with Harford Community College, on Monday announced the winners of the #MyFightingOwlsFreedom social media contest. The contest encouraged participants to share their stories of freedom and personal growth at Harford Community College. The #MyFightingOwlsFreedom contest ended with a five-day public voting period, in which the community voted through Facebook and Instagram for their favorite entries among nine selected finalists.

First Place Winner: Lisa Belcher

Lisa Belcher, the first-place winner, received a $500 award. Her inspiring journey, spanning three decades, culminated in obtaining her associate degree from Harford Community College. Overcoming financial challenges and the demands of raising a family, Lisa’s story reflects resilience and determination. “Walking across the stage was one of the proudest moments in my life because I finished what I started. Harford Community College gave me the Freedom to be proud of the educated woman I have become,” Lisa stated in her entry. Her prize will fund a meaningful trip to Texas to visit her aging aunt.

Second Place Winner: Dr. Lisa Tittle

Securing the second-place spot and a $250 award is Dr. Lisa Tittle. Overcoming initial doubts about college, Dr. Tittle discovered her passion at Harford Community College and eventually became an English teacher at her alma mater. “The educational journey I started at Harford gave me the freedom to dream.” She plans to make a donation to the Harford Community College Pantry and use the remainder of her prize towards a 30th-anniversary trip with her husband.

Third Place Winner: Laura Burke

Laura Burke, the third-place recipient, received a $150 award. Her transformative journey began twenty years ago and ultimately led her down the road to self-discovery and a fulfilling career, all at Harford Community College. “Harford Community has made me the person I am today,” Laura’s entry explained. “It has built me from a lost and aimless young person to the driven and passionate woman I am today.” Laura plans to use the funds to make Christmas extra special for her 4- and 6-year-old boys. Her story embodies the profound impact of Harford Community College on personal growth and professional success.

The contest, conducted on Freedom Federal Credit Union’s social media platforms, allowed the community to vote for their favorite #MyFightingOwlsFreedom stories. Freedom Federal Credit Union expresses gratitude to all the participants for sharing their inspiring stories of freedom through local higher education. The #MyFightingOwlsFreedom campaign aimed to highlight the transformative impact of Harford Community College on individuals and the community at large.

Freedom is committed to finding creative and social ways of spotlighting local non-profits and community organizations in order to bring awareness of the good work they do in their shared communities.
In early November, Freedom announced The Freedom To Help Awards, an award for a dedicated local volunteer, which includes a $1,000 donation to the awardee’s favorite local non-profit. The Credit Union is currently accepting nominations.