By Chloe Stanley, NASFAA Communications and Engagement Assistant
At this year’s NASFAA 2025 National Conference in Anaheim, California, our members came together not just to learn and connect, but to give back to the community in meaningful ways. Through your generosity and enthusiasm at our charity events, we were able to support Higher Ground Youth & Family Services and help further their mission to provide wrap-around services, family support and community resources.
“Connection, Inspiration & Gratitude! These are words that can describe how the entire Higher Ground team is feeling post NASFAA conference. The members that make up both the NASFAA team and the NASFAA community are so kind, genuine and generous,” said Jordan Barrera, Higher Ground’s director of communications.
From sweating it out in the Charity 5K Run to dancing under the stars during Silent Disco, your efforts added up to something bigger than any of us could have achieved alone. Here’s a look at the incredible impact you made possible.
Prior to the start of the conference, attendees enjoyed making posters together while discussing race strategies and reviewing the course map. NASFAA’s community manager, Tim Maggio even provided some pre-race snack bags! Attendees had fun coming up with poster designs and crafting together.
The Charity 5K Run/Walk kicked off the conference with a bang. Our high-energy participants kept the fun going even while working up a sweat. Representatives from Higher Ground also joined in on the action, running and walking alongside NASFAA attendees and cheering each other on. Thank you to all of our fabulous sponsors, volunteers, and cheer squad members for their support during this event as well!
“The energy at the event was contagious, and it was inspiring to see so many financial aid heroes kick off the conference with an energizing walk/run. We’re proud to have played a part in making it happen and look forward to continuing our support in the future!” said Debbie Murphy, regional director of Ascendium Education Solutions.
During the conference, Higher Ground joined NASFAA for a Charity Team Trivia Night and a Silent Disco on the Lanai deck of the Hilton hotel. It was a night filled with laughter, friendly competition, and music under the stars, all while raising funds to support Higher Ground’s vital work in the Anaheim community. Seeing our members come together – dancing in glowing headphones, high-fiving over trivia victories, and connecting with Higher Ground staff – was a powerful reminder of the spirit that defines our NASFAA community.
“At Citizens, we’re all about community, connection, and a little friendly competition. We were inspired to get involved because we believe in the power of coming together for a great cause! Personally, it was a huge accomplishment for me to run the entire race. Thanks for the motivation and inspiration from all of NASFAA to get me across the finish line!” said Crystal DeLong, Citizens’ vice president and national sales manager.
Thanks to your generosity, participation, and spirit of giving, we were able to raise over $15,000 to support Higher Ground’s wrap around services for local youth and families. Your support helps create brighter futures, and demonstrates the meaningful impact our profession can have beyond our offices and campuses.
In a Facebook video, the organization expressed its heartfelt gratitude to NASFAA community and Charity Sponsors.
From all of us here at NASFAA, and on behalf of Higher Ground Youth & Family Services, thank you for making a difference at the NASFAA 2025 National Conference. We can’t wait to see how you bring this same spirit of service and community to the NASFAA 2026 National Conference in National Harbor, Maryland.
Publication Date: 7/14/2025
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