March is Women’s History Month!

March is a time to acknowledge and celebrate the vital role women have played in shaping and advancing society. When it comes to our vibrant St. Mary’s Academy community, we can’t kick off Women’s History Month without recognizing the school’s rich history and our 12 foundresses.

St. Mary’s Academy began in 1859 when 12 Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) bravely traveled 7,000 miles from Quebec to Oregon, the mission of educating young women in the SNJM Catholic faith inspiring their journey. In just two short weeks, these tenacious women opened the school and were serving six students. Little did they know, they were blazing a trail and setting the foundation for generations of women to come.

For the past 164 years, we’ve proudly upheld our mission to nurture extraordinary young women leaders – a legacy that continues today. Our more than 11,000 alumnae represent St. Mary’s across the globe. From leading fortune 500 companies, to serving in public office, founding non-profits, and making a difference as community volunteers, entrepreneurs, and health care providers, to mothers, artists, and educators – St. Mary’s Academy alumnae are innovators, change-makers, pacesetters, and leaders in every sense of the word.

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, and International Women’s Day on March 8, we must remember that, although women have made so many advancements since 1859, there’s still work to be done. Together, let’s remain focused on elevating the status of young women and providing them with the education, environment, community, spiritual growth, resources, and confidence to thrive.

Thank you for being a part of this incredible community and for celebrating, valuing and uplifting young women!