Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys was the first public school teacher in New France and had an understanding of interculturality well before its time. She taught First Nations and European children together and she supported all young families. She died Jan 12, 1700 and was declared a saint by Pope John Paul II on Oct 31, 1982. Her spirit lives on in the community she founded, The Congregation of Notre Dame.

A Mass for her feast day will be held Thursday, January 12, 2017 at 12:05 in the UPEI Chaplaincy Centre.