Katharine Drexel Quotes
- Philanthropist
- USA
- 1858
Katharine Drexel (1858-1955) was an American heiress, philanthropist, and religious sister. She was canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church in 2000. She used her inheritance to fund the establishment of numerous schools, hospitals, and missions for Native Americans and African Americans. She fou…Read More
Katharine Drexel (1858-1955) was an American heiress, philanthropist, and religious sister. She was canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church in 2000. She used her inheritance to fund the establishment of numerous schools, hospitals, and missions for Native Americans and African Americans. She founded the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, a religious congregation dedicated to the service of these communities. Her notable works include the founding of Xavier University of Louisiana, the first Catholic university in the United States for African Americans, and the establishment of over 60 missions and schools in the western United States.Read Less
Katharine Drexel (1858-1955) was an American heiress, philanthropist, and religious sister. She was canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church in 2000. She used her inheritance to fund the establishment of numerous schools, hospitals, and missions for Native Americans and African Americans. She founded the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, a religious congregation dedicated to the service of these communities. Her notable works include the founding of Xavier University of Louisiana, the first Catholic university in the United States for African Americans, and the establishment of over 60 missions and schools in the western United States.
Katharine Drexel Career Highlights
- Founding the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament: In 1891, Katharine founded the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, a religious order dedicated to serving Native American and African American communities. She used her inheritance of $20 million to establish missions, schools, and churches across the United States.
- Opening schools for Native American and African American children: Katharine’s main focus was on providing education to marginalized communities. She opened over 60 schools for Native American and African American children, including Xavier University in New Orleans, the first Catholic university in the United States for African Americans.
- Advocating for civil rights: Katharine was a strong advocate for civil rights and worked closely with civil rights leaders such as W.E.B. Du Bois and Booker T. Washington. She used her influence and resources to fight against racial discrimination and promote equality for all.
- Canonization: In 1988, Katharine was declared a saint by the Catholic Church, making her the second American-born saint. She was recognized for her selfless dedication to serving others and her unwavering faith.
Key Contributions by Katharine Drexel
- Promoting education: Katharine believed that education was the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and oppression. She dedicated her life to providing quality education to Native American and African American children, giving them the tools to build a better future for themselves and their communities.
- Empowering marginalized communities: Through her work, Katharine empowered marginalized communities by providing them with resources, opportunities, and a voice. She believed that everyone, regardless of their race or background, deserved to be treated with dignity and respect.
- Inspiring others: Katharine’s selfless dedication and unwavering faith inspired many others to follow in her footsteps. Her legacy continues to live on through the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, who continue to serve marginalized communities around the world.
What Sets Katharine Drexel Apart
Katharine Drexel’s unwavering commitment to serving others, her strong faith, and her determination to use her privilege for the greater good set her apart from others. She was a woman ahead of her time, using her wealth and influence to make a positive impact on society. Despite facing opposition and criticism, she remained steadfast in her mission to serve those in need.
Takeaways
- Use your privilege for good: Katharine Drexel’s life is a testament to the power of using one’s privilege and resources to make a positive impact on society. She showed that even the wealthiest and most influential individuals have a responsibility to help those in need.
- Education is key: Katharine believed that education was the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and oppression. Her dedication to providing education to marginalized communities highlights the importance of investing in education for a better future.
- Stand up for what you believe in: Despite facing opposition and criticism, Katharine remained true to her beliefs and continued to fight for what she believed was right. Her courage and determination serve as an inspiration for others to stand up for their beliefs and make a difference in the world.