Among the biggest recipients, the data show, are Carnegie Mellon University, Harvard University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Stanford University. Qatar was the largest foreign source of funds to schools, making up more than 20%.

Colleges nationwide are investing in state-of-the-art commercial laundry systems, providing intuitive and accessible laundry options

Embracing change and holding onto tradition is not "an either-or proposition," says Gregor Thuswaldner, provost of La Roche University.

The rate of high school students from low-income and high-minority neighborhoods applying for financial aid has increased by over 60% since last year.