University of Dayton Founding and Values

The University of Dayton Founding

• The University of Dayton is a Catholic Marianist University founded in 1850 as St. Mary's School for Boys.
• It's known for its welcoming community and supportive environment.
• The University fosters collaboration to build a community that strengthens faith and equips students for global challenges.
• The University's mission is to cultivate the whole person, linking learning to leadership and service.
• The University believes compassionate hearts and critical minds can transform the world.

Marianist Values

• Marianist values emphasize community, inclusivity, and adaptable education.
• These values are rooted in the founders' beliefs.

Father William Joseph Chaminade

• Father William Joseph Chaminade (1761-1850) founded the Marianists.
• Born in Perago, France, he deeply believed in the Virgin Mary.
• Chaminade was ordained in 1785 and taught at a boarding school in Madan.
• During the French Revolution, he and other priests resisted pledging allegiance to the Civil Constitution of the Clergy.
• Consequently, they were forced into hiding and exile in Saragosa, Spain from 1797 to 1800.
• This experience influenced him to adapt his methods to the changing times.

Marian Sodalities

• Upon returning to Bordeaux, Chaminade established Marian Sodalities, lay communities.
• These communities revitalized faith and Christian culture in Bordeaux.
• Marie Terz De Larus significantly helped the underground Church, advising Chaminade.
• She became the leader of the women's sodality and established "The House of Mercy," combating prostitution.
• The House of Mercy evolved into a lasting religious order.

The Chapel of the Meline

• Chaminade rented the Chapel of the Meline in 1804, making it the center of his work.
• He lived near the chapel and later bought a house next to it.
• Marianists continued his work at the Meline.
• Chaminade's room remains as a memorial.

Adel De Bot De Tranon

• In 1808, Chaminade learned of Adel De Bot De Tranon's prayer group near Aun, France.
• They corresponded, with Adel seeking guidance in her life dedication to God.
• The Daughters of Mary Immaculate formed in Aen, in 1816, with assistance from Chaminade and Marie Terz.

Formation of the Society of Mary

• A sodality member's desire to dedicate his life to promoting faith inspired Chaminade to create a religious society.
• The Society of Mary was formed on October 2, 1817, after reflection.
• Educating students in faith was a central goal of the founding Marianists.

The First Marianist School

• The first Marianist school opened in 1819, serving various social classes.
• Adel De Bot De Tranon passed away in 1828 and is buried at the Daughters of Mary Immaculate convent.

Pontifical Status

• In 1839, Pope Gregory XVI granted pontifical status to both the Society of Mary and the Daughters of Mary Immaculate.

Marianist Mission

• Chaminade's Constitutions emphasized uniting diverse individuals and talents for educating children.
• Marianist teachings spread throughout France and beyond.

Marianists in the United States

• A need for religious figures in US parishes and schools emerged.
• The Society of Mary arrived in 1849, establishing St. Mary's School for Boys in 1850.
• This school eventually became the University of Dayton.

Chaminade's Legacy

• Chaminade focused on Marianist religious life in his later years, visiting communities and advising novices.
• He died on January 22, 1850, at age 88.
• Chaminade's beliefs continue to shape the University of Dayton.
• The University seeks to provide a transformative experience.
• Chaminade's vision of creating a just and reconciled society through education continues to inspire the University.
• The University of Dayton aims to nurture graduates capable of making a global impact, embodying Marianist principles.