By Chloe Stanley, NASFAA Communications and Engagement Assistant

We are excited to introduce First Generation College Bound (FGCB) as our local charity partner for the NASFAA 2026 National Conference in National Harbor, Maryland, where we will be bringing back our Charity 5K and Trivia Night events to support our partner’s impactful work. This year, attendees also have the option to sign up for a spot at a NASFAA-reserved bay at Topgolf National Harbor to support FGCB. Before National Conference registration opens, in late January, take a moment to learn about this year's charity partner.

For more than 35 years, FGCB has helped thousands of Maryland students become the first in their families to attend and graduate from college. 

The organization provides a pipeline of support and college readiness services – including financial aid guidance – to help students finish high school, access college, and complete their degrees. For high school juniors and seniors, FGCB’s College Access program also helps identify colleges that are both academically appropriate and financially a good fit, ensuring a smooth transition and persistence through graduation. 

“Not only do we make sure their financial aid and all their information is taken care of so that they can attend, we also track them through college so we can recognize them when they graduate and so that we can provide encouragement while they are there,” said Joseph Fisher, CEO and Founder of FGCB.

Fisher launched the organization in 1990 with a clear vision: one day, every Marylander will have access to an affordable college education. Fisher’s own path to higher education was shaped by the guidance and support of a coach during his youth in the East Capitol housing projects of Southeast Washington, D.C. Motivated by this experience, he committed himself to expanding college access for students from low- and moderate-income families.

Each year, FGCB serves more than 600 low- to moderate-income students with the goal of helping them attend and graduate from college with minimal debt. To date, FGCB has supported 3,435 students who have attended college, 2,119 students currently pursuing degrees, 1,139 students who have earned Higher Education Achievements, and 42 students who have chosen to serve in the military.

“Completing college has transformed my life,” said FGCB alumna Anita Johnson. “Currently, I work in Federal Government, and plan to attend law school in the near future. I recognize that First Generation College Bound has had a huge part in my ongoing success!”

NASFAA’s partnership with FGCB is grounded in our shared dedication to expanding educational opportunities. Through the generosity of our charity event sponsors and the engagement of our members, we are able to support FGCB in continuing their essential work.

“NASFAA is proud to support First Generation College Bound at our 2026 National Conference. Our Charity 5K, Trivia Night, and Topgolf events give conference attendees the chance to have fun, connect with peers, and directly support the students whose futures we’re all working to advance,” said Carissa Uhlman-Campana, NASFAA’s manager of corporate partnerships.

There are many ways for members and sponsors to make an impact at NASFAA’s 2026 National Conference. Take part in the Charity 5K to run or walk, or choose between Trivia Night and Topgolf game play at Topgolf in National Harbor. All events offer a fun way to engage with colleagues while helping first-generation students succeed.

The Charity 5K will take place on the morning of Monday, June 29, with check-in beginning at 7:00 a.m. and the race starting at 8:00 a.m. Participants can join in person or virtually. Trivia Night and the Topgolf game play will be held on Tuesday, June 30, at 7:00 p.m. Please note that these events occur simultaneously, so attendees may register for only one. These events require separate registration. Visit our website to learn more about FGCB and other ways to support their mission.

Are you interested in becoming a 2026 Charity Sponsor? Contact Carissa Uhlman-Campana by May 1, 2026.

Publication Date: 1/15/2026

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