Catholic Colleges Adjust Fundraising Efforts to Fit Economic Climate

Potential donors need to hear about the history of Catholic education in the U.S., what the impact has been on society and why it's important to keep these institutions competitive — and affordable — in today's American culture, Father Cregan said.

"One important note when approaching potential donors is, if you don't ask for enough, you can insult them," Meehan said. "Remember, their ability to contribute says something about their success and charitable contributions are a recognition of that."