Living Classrooms Rising Stars presented by the Baltimore Business Journal is a program aimed at engaging up-and-coming young professionals under the age of 40 who are the next generation of Baltimore philanthropists and business leaders. Rising Stars honorees are nominated and selected based on their professional achievements and philanthropic efforts. Throughout the year, the selected Rising Stars use their professional and social networks, creativity, marketing skills, and business expertise to raise funds for Living Classrooms Foundation’s impactful programs.

Why philanthropy? Philanthropy has the power to advance the quality of life and influence lasting social change. Philanthropy can be viewed as one of the cornerstones of society and can help communities grow stronger.

Throughout the program, Rising Stars participate in networking events throughout the year and commit to raise funds and awareness to support Living Classrooms. The Rising Stars 2025 program culminates with an awards celebration taking place in conjunction with the Foundation’s 37th annual Maritime Magic, the best annual benefit celebration on the Baltimore waterfront, which takes place on Friday, October 3, 2025, at the historic Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park in Fells Point. Each Rising Star will be featured in the Baltimore Business Journal with their photo and bio.