St. Elizabeth Ann Bayley Seton, Foundress, Sisters of Charity of St. Joseph's

St. Elizabeth Ann Bayley Seton (1774-1821) was the first native-born American to be canonized by the Catholic Church. She founded the Sisters of Charity of St. Joseph's, the first religious community for women in the United States. Born in New York City, she converted to Catholicism and dedicated her life to serving the poor and educating children. She is venerated as the patron saint of Catholic schools, widows, and the seafarer.