2025-2026 Events
Keep an eye out for more exciting events coming up this year!
2026 Financial Aid Event
Financial Aid Event
April 2026
Our Financial Aid 101 session was an incredibly informative and engaging event! Led by Chris Doran, Director of Communications and Financial Education at the University of Virginia, students and families gained valuable insight into what to expect when receiving a financial aid package.
Participants had the opportunity to ask questions and better understand how to navigate the financial side of the college process with confidence.
We’re grateful to Chris for sharing his expertise and to everyone who joined us for this important conversation.
LinkedIn: Circle Match
Instagram: @circlematchorg
Paterson Expansion & Info Session
Paterson Expansion & Info Session
February 2026
We kicked off with our info session at two new partner schools joining the Circle Match Family, Eastside and JFK High School (Paterson, NJ). Welcome to the Circle Match crew!
LinkedIn: Circle Match
Instagram: @circlematchorg
Expansion to NYC: First School Launch in Brooklyn
First School Launch in Brooklyn
September 2025
With funding from the Nicholas B. Ottaway Foundation, Circle Match launched its first New York City program at Franklin Delano Roosevelt High School, marking a major step in our geographic expansion.
LinkedIn: Circle Match
Instagram: @circlematchorg
Community Party
Community Party
August 2025
Our Annual Community Party was a tremendous success! Thanks to your incredible support through ticket sales and donations, we are able to support even more future leaders as they navigate the college application process!
A huge thank you to GP’s Restaurant in Guttenberg, NJ for their authentic Italian cuisine. It was a pleasure to gather with everyone, celebrate the Class of 2025, and give a special shoutout to our amazing volunteer advisors.
We can’t wait to see what’s next for Circle Match, and we couldn’t have done it without the dedication and support of all those involved.
Stay connected for more updates on our upcoming events — we look forward to seeing you again soon!
LinkedIn: Circle Match
Instagram: @circlematchorg
People's Choice Winner
People's Choice Winner: Blackstone Gives Back Challenge
July 2025
Circle Match was honored as the People’s Choice winner of the Blackstone Gives Back Challenge, recognizing the strength of our mission and community support. This milestone reflects the impact of our students and advisors and the growing momentum behind our work.
LinkedIn: Circle Match
Instagram: @circlematchorg
Circle Match Retreat
Circle Match Retreat
05/31/2025
Our very first retreat brought students, advisors, and volunteers together for an impactful weekend of growth and connection. Through workshops and team-building activities, we equipped our students with the tools and confidence to navigate the college application process and beyond. A big thank you to everyone who made this inaugural retreat a success!
Circle Match Financial Aid Workshop
Circle Match Financial Aid Workshop
04/08/2025
We’d like to thank Chris Doran for taking the time to share such important topics, such as the difference between need-based and merit-based rewards and the “hidden costs” of college living. Navigating the financial aid process is a vital aspect when transitioning into college. Thank you to everyone who joined us on our Financial Aid Webinar!
NACAC National College Fair: New York City
NACAC National College Fair: New York City
04/06/2025
Circle Match juniors from Union City High School (UCHS), Memorial High School (MHS), North Bergen High School (NBHS), and FDR High School in Brooklyn (FDRHS) took a trip to the National College Fair in New York City! They got to check out 350+ colleges and universities, including four-year schools, community colleges, and opportunities to explore different programs and career paths.
Huge shoutout to the parents and staff who helped make this day possible and kept everything running smoothly. We really appreciate all your support!
FDRHS Cohort Gathering

FDRHS Cohort Gathering
03/24/2025
Circle Match had the opportunity to meet the FDRHS cohort at Fazio’s, a pizzeria in Bushwick, to connect with students and families. The event provided a chance to introduce them to the executive team and share stories about the Circle Match journey. We also had the privilege of hearing insights from former student and now mentor, Osmel Feliz, who shared his personal experiences in the program.
Annual Welcome Party
Annual Welcome Party
01/11/2025
The Annual Penguin Party brings together seniors, new juniors, advisors, and the executive team from the Circle Match community. It’s a chance to welcome the incoming students from North Bergen and Union City High Schools and kick off an exciting and transformative year. This event is a great way to meet new people, build connections, and start the year off on a positive note!
Ready to help the next generation of leaders?

