Saint Rose Philippine Duchesne

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Born in Grenoble, France in 1769, Saint Rose Philippine Duchesne first arrived at the village of St. Charles, Mo., in August of 1818. It was the end of a long journey, and the beginning of one that continues today.

Saint Philippine was one of the first young women to join the Society, founded in 1800. Saint Madeleine called on Philippine in 1804, hoping the young woman would help establish a new foundation for the Society in Grenoble.

Philippine entered the Society, beginning a lifelong friendship with Mother Barat. But she also felt an even greater calling—to serve in the New World. When Bishop Louis DuBourg of Louisiana arrived in France in 1817 to recruit religious and priests for his large territory, Philippine was finally allowed to set sail.

She travelled with four other Religious from Bordeaux, France to New Orleans and eventually to St. Louis. Bishop DuBourg assigned them to St. Charles, where less than two weeks later Philippine opened the first Sacred Heart school outside Europe: The Academy of the Sacred Heart. It was also the first free school west of the Mississippi.

Philippine Duchesne’s pioneering spirit, fortitude and bravery were not only remarkable for her time—they formed a foundation that lies at the very core of today’s Maryville University. From these roots the University literally grew. Even more significantly, the values and beliefs that shaped its philosophy of education remain intact—and will continue to drive Maryville’s growth and direction in the future:

  • A commitment to diversity and inclusion;
  • A relentless pursuit of excellence;
  • Innovative and dedicated academic rigor;
  • Commitment to and appreciation of the liberal arts;
  • Uncompromising student-centeredness;
  • An appreciation for friendships forged in the classrooms, playing fields and residence halls;
  • A supportive Sacred Heart network;
  • The importance of developing critical thinking skills;
  • The unique leadership skills of women.