St. Rosa Venerini, Virgin, Foundress of the Maestre Pie Venerini

St. Rosa Venerini (1656-1728) was an Italian Roman Catholic virgin and the foundress of the Maestre Pie Venerini, a religious order dedicated to the education of girls. Born in Viterbo, she initially desired to enter religious life but was called to establish a network of free schools for the poor and uneducated women of her region. Rosa dedicated her life to improving the education and spiritual formation of girls, opening numerous schools across Italy. She is venerated for her commitment to education and is the patron saint of teachers and students.