The director of the Catholic School Development Program spoke at the National Catholic Educational Association convention held in New Orleans April 26-28.
CSDP Director Gregory J. Geruson presented “The $100,000 Ask: Soliciting Major Gifts,” a topic that is often described as an art and a science, the CSDP reported. Geruson spoke to educators, administrators and clergy members.
More than 8,000 people were invited to attend the convention, which featured about 300 professional development sessions over three days.
“You realize that there are thousands of people committed to ensuring that Catholic education continues its many successes,” Geruson said of his impressions of the convention. “You also see a real commitment on the part of school leaders and educators to think in new and different ways to help ensure the future of Catholic schools.”
Geruson, who has spoken at NCEA gatherings in the past, said he hoped to spread the CSDP’s message.
“Catholic schools don’t have to close. They can grow and thrive,” he said.
The CSDP helps Catholic schools to help themselves by providing pro-bono guidance and management advice so they can be self-sufficient. The CSDP helps the schools to implement a new business model so they can regain their footing during challenging times and flourish.
Founded in 2004 by Robert T. Healey, chief executive officer of the Viking Yacht Company, the program operates in 26 schools in southern New Jersey and six schools in Philadelphia.