Director of Strategy & Grants
Rebecca Nusbaum grew up spending much of her childhood at the Walkersville Volunteer Fire Company alongside her father, a dedicated volunteer firefighter. From a young age, she was immersed in the values of service, loyalty, and community that define the fire service. That early experience instilled in her a deep appreciation for the meaning of selfless service and the power of extended family.
Rebecca joined the Foundation in 2000 as a part-time administrative assistant. After the tragic events of September 11, 2001, she transitioned into a full-time role and now serves as the Foundation’s Director of Strategy & Grants, where she leads strategic initiatives and oversees impactful grantmaking efforts that advance the Foundation’s mission.
Rebecca holds a Bachelor of Science in Management and a Master’s Degree in Nonprofit Management from Johnson & Wales University. She is also a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE), demonstrating her commitment to the highest standards in ethical and effective fundraising. Rebecca lives in Edgewater, Maryland, with her fiancé—a retired Fire Captain from Rhode Island—and their two dogs, Violet and Finn. In her free time, she enjoys kayaking, going to concerts and festivals, and traveling.
“I feel blessed to be a part of such an amazing organization and to have met so many wonderful people over the years. The strength and perseverance shown by the survivor and fire service communities continue to inspire me. Through them, I’ve learned profound lessons about compassion, resilience, and humanity—lessons that have truly made me a better person.”