As a result of the recent downturn in the financial markets, many of us have felt a sizable decrease in our financial security. In tough economic times such as these, it is common for charitable donations to decline. But we must remember that many college students are under extreme financial pressure. The cost of attending college has increased by as much as 12% in the last four years. As a consequence, at least half of all college students receive no financial assistance other than student loan…