Maryland Financial Education and Capability Awards Announced

Nonprofits honor teachers, organizations, and corporate partners for financial education achievements

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The CASH Campaign of Maryland, Maryland Council on Economic Education, and Maryland State Department of Education have announced the winners of the 13th annual Maryland Financial Education and Capability Awards. The awards recognize outstanding teachers, community champions, organizations, and corporate partners who have made significant contributions to financial education across the state.

Why it matters

Financial education is a critical life skill that empowers students and community members to make informed choices, pursue opportunities, and build long-term financial stability. The awards highlight the importance of financial literacy and the dedicated educators and organizations working to expand access to these essential programs.

The details

The award winners were recognized at an in-person reception in Annapolis and then honored by the Maryland General Assembly. The awards cover categories such as Community Champion, Outstanding Organization, Elementary School, Middle School, High School, and Corporate Partnership. Recipients were selected for their innovative teaching methods, impactful community programs, and commitment to equipping Marylanders with personal finance knowledge and skills.

  • The 13th annual Maryland Financial Education and Capability Awards ceremony took place on March 2, 2026.
  • The award winners were recognized by the Maryland General Assembly during their evening session on March 2, 2026.

The players

CASH Campaign of Maryland

A nonprofit organization that works to promote programs, products, and policies that increase the financial security of low-to-moderate-income individuals and families across Maryland.

Maryland Council on Economic Education (MCEE)

A nonprofit organization that provides financial and economic education programs, resources, and professional development experiences to over 2,000 educators across Maryland each year.

Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE)

The state agency responsible for ensuring a rigorous and world-class educational experience for every Maryland student, preparing them to be college and career ready.

Lacy Allen

The Financial Health and Digital Engagement Manager of Interfaith Housing Alliance, recognized as the Community Champion Award winner.

University of Maryland Extension

The recipient of the Outstanding Organization Award, recognized for delivering statewide financial education programs reaching thousands of Marylanders.

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What they’re saying

“For thirteen years, the Maryland Financial Education & Capability Awards have highlighted the extraordinary work being done across our state to expand access to financial knowledge and opportunity. The CASH Campaign of Maryland is honored to continue supporting and celebrating leaders who are helping build a stronger economic Maryland for everyone.”

— Robin McKinney, Co-Founder & CEO, CASH Campaign of Maryland

“Students can achieve their lifelong dreams when they are introduced to financial and economic concepts while in school. Those important educational experiences are provided by educators who inspire and excite them. At MCEE, we're proud to honor those teachers and school leaders, as well as the members of our community, whose commitment to financial education has a real impact and makes a difference for so many Maryland students.”

— Julie Weaver, Executive Director, Maryland Council on Economic Education

“The Maryland Financial Education and Capability Awards highlight the educators, community leaders, and organizations who are leading the way in strengthening financial literacy for our students. Financial knowledge is not simply an academic subject, it is a critical life skill that empowers students to make informed choices, pursue opportunities, and build long-term stability. I commend this year's honorees for their unwavering commitment to equipping students with the confidence and practical skills necessary to navigate an increasingly complex financial world. Their work helps ensure that Maryland students are prepared for lifelong success.”

— Dr. Carey Wright, State Superintendent, Maryland State Department of Education

What’s next

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The takeaway

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