WASHINGTON (AP) — Catholic University professors are leading an effort to question House Speaker John Boehner's record on poverty ahead of his commencement speech at the school.

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A letter released Wednesday signed by nearly 80 faculty members from Catholic colleges criticizes Boehner for having a record "among the worst in Congress" on addressing the needs of the poor. Faculty at Catholic University organized the letter.

The letter does not protest Boehner's visit to the Washington campus on Saturday. It focuses on the 2012 budget and urges Boehner to "reawaken your familiarity" with Church teaching on the subject of poverty.

Boehner spokesman Kevin Smith says the speaker will deliver a "personal, nonpolitical message" that he hopes will speak to everyone.

In a statement, Catholic University says there are diverse viewpoints within the Catholic community.