Michael McLaughlin

Michael McLaughlin brings a spirit of service to his role at The Catholic Initiative, shaped by a 20-year career in hospitality with Hilton and Starwood hotels in New York City, followed by 15 years as a Development Officer at the University of Notre Dame. His experience blends the core values of hospitality and fundraising, allowing him to dedicate the rest of his career to a Christ-centered mission—ensuring that Catholic schools, churches, and parishes flourish and remain sustainable for generations to come.

Michael is deeply passionate about evangelization and the mission of The Catholic Initiative. He is committed to creating permanent, sustainable solutions for Catholic communities that lack the funding to remain viable, particularly in the face of growing secularization. He finds great purpose in sharing the vision of The Catholic Initiative, inviting individuals and foundations to participate in the grace of giving. The impact of this philanthropy, he believes, is both immediate and lasting. Beyond the mission itself, Michael values the small but mighty team at The Catholic Initiative and the generous donors who entrust him to walk alongside them in their philanthropic journey.

Michael and his beautiful wife, Patti, have been married for 30 years and live in South Bend, Indiana, where they’ve raised their three children, Tommy, Daisy, and Maggie. Their home is watched over by Mr. Carson, a Cavalier King Charles spaniel, who demands constant attention and treats. In his free time, Michael enjoys Notre Dame athletics, golf, IndyCar/F1 racing, and is a huge supporter of English football teams West Ham United and Ipswich Town.