St. Mary's Academy
A Sisters of the Holy Family School
New Orleans East • Established 1867
About the School
Founded in 1867 by the Sisters of the Holy Family — the second Black Catholic religious order in the United States — St. Mary’s Academy is one of the oldest Black Catholic schools in the country. Its founding order was established by Venerable Henriette DeLille.
Beginning in the French Quarter and later moving to its New Orleans East campus, St. Mary’s continues its mission of educating young women with faith and excellence.
Beginning in the French Quarter and later moving to its New Orleans East campus, St. Mary’s continues its mission of educating young women with faith and excellence.
Quick Facts
Founded: 1867
Founded by: Sisters of the Holy Family
Type: Catholic; young women, grades 8–12
Location: Chef Menteur Highway, New Orleans East
Status: Active
Founded by: Sisters of the Holy Family
Type: Catholic; young women, grades 8–12
Location: Chef Menteur Highway, New Orleans East
Status: Active
Notable Alumnae
Leah Chase — legendary chef of Dooky Chase’s (Class of 1939).
Judge Dana Douglas — U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.
Rep. Candace Newell — Louisiana state legislator.
Judge Dana Douglas — U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.
Rep. Candace Newell — Louisiana state legislator.
Reunion News & Alumnae
Maryites stay connected. Visit St. Mary’s for reunion dates, class news, and alumnae events — and check back here for updates.
