Every Philadelphian, and every member of the Drexel community, can take pride in the canonization of Saint Katharine Drexel. Her uplifting life provides inspiration for all people, regardless of their religious beliefs or affiliation.

She was born into one of America`s wealthiest families, but she renounced a life of material privilege in 1889 to live on 41 cents a day as a nun. The year 1891 was an important one for both her and her beloved uncle, Anthony Drexel. That year, she founded the order of the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament while Anthony founded Drexel University.

She would devote the next 66 years of her life and her entire $20 million inheritance to educating Native Americans and African Americans. She also founded Xavier University in New Orleans, the nation`s first predominately African American college. These two members of one of America`s great families can claim the honor of founding two major institutions of higher learning, which continue to thrive today.

Both uncle and niece shared the conviction that everyone has an equal right to a quality education. They believed education was the best means of empowering the disenfranchised and to advance society. As people of courage and conviction, they showed incredible determination in support of their beliefs.

On one occasion, she personally faced down a Ku Klux Klan mob intent on closing one of the more than 60 schools and missions she founded. Anthony insisted that his university would place no restrictions on religion, race or gender and would offer working people such unprecedented features as low tuition, full scholarships and night classes.

The courage of Saint Katharine Drexel and Anthony Drexel embodies the spirit of Drexel University and the city Philadelphia, both of which are committed to social justice. While Philadelphia claims Saint Katharine Drexel as one of its most illustrious daughters, her values and ideals provide inspiration to people everywhere.

May we all reflect on her life and legacy, and find ways to fulfill the spirit of her mission in our own lives.

C.R. "Chuck" Pennoni Interim President