In part 1 of our conversation with Catherine Cunning, Director of Development at Catholic Extension, we dive into how to maximize your major gifts. We break down the power of intentionality, consistency, and preparation as you embark on your fundraising campaigns.

ABOUT CATHERINE CUNNING

Catherine Cunning is the Director of Development for Catholic Extension, managing activities in the northeast. Catholic Extension builds up Catholic faith communities across America by providing funding and resources to rural and isolated communities through the generosity of individual donors and foundations.

As a career fundraiser, Catherine has served in various fundraising leadership positions in healthcare advocacy, education, and religious institutions. Catherine began her professional fundraising career with Immaculate Conception Seminary, successfully managing their first major capital campaign raising more than $10 million for seminarian education. Catherine was the youngest Director and the second woman to hold this position in the Seminary’s history. She has been an invited speaker at both the International Catholic Stewardship Conference and National Catholic Development Conference.

Catherine holds a Master of Arts in Diplomacy and International Relations and Strategic Communication from Seton Hall University. She serves as a mentor for undergraduate students seeking a nonprofit career path.

Catherine, her husband Ed, and their three children live in Middletown, New Jersey, where Catherine also serves on the Board of her children’s school, St. Mary Elementary School.

Connect with Catherine: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherine-phelan-cunning/

Learn more about Catholic Extension: https://www.catholicextension.org/