SNJM’s Vision Lives On At PSNM

The phrase “We recognize the richness of the past while offering a current, forward-looking school program” took on its full meaning at the inauguration of the Coutu Family Women’s Pavilion at Pensionnat du Saint-Nom-de-Marie (PSNM). As Sr. Denise Riel, Provincial Animator of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) pointed out on September 12. “I like this expression coined by a staff member. It ties together the past, the present and the future.”

Sr. Denise Riel, SNJM provincial animator and Antonella Picillo, PSNM executive director

Founded in 1905 by the SNJMs, the PSNM “has stood the test of time, evolving, innovating and creating so that young people can become accomplished citizens, just as our foundress, Mother Marie-Rose, wanted them to be in her day”. Sr. Riel, accompanied by the other two members of the SNJM Quebec Provincial Leadership Team, expressed the sentiment of all. “We are happy to see that for 120 years, the SNJM mission of education and values have been perpetuated while being updated to ensure the full development of today’s youth and prepare them to engage in today’s society.”

This state-of-the-art pavilion features spacious, well-lit classrooms, flexible locations for FLEX students, team-building environments and the Desjardins roof garden. The latter will be used for both outdoor teaching and urban agriculture. It will also provide a place for staff to relax, while inviting students to socialize and unwind outdoors.

Its construction has also made it possible to use new technologies to reduce the consumption of energy. With the help of a dozen geothermal wells, the building will be fully heated and air-conditioned.

A tribute to the SNJM heritage

In designing this inspiring, illuminated pavilion, the management integrated a museum showcase project to present the history of the school and the rich heritage left as a legacy by the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM). This work was carried out under the responsibility of Mr. Dominique Laperle, historian and teacher at PSNM, with the collaboration of the SNJM Archives department.

This showcase recalls the work of the foundresses and the SNJM vision of “developing the heart, the intellect and all aspects of each student.”  With the collaboration of the school’s staff, the PSNM, through its educational project and its four study profiles, continues to support this vision.

The event was attended by teachers, administrative staff and several distinguished guests. PSNM is currently undergoing its third expansion. The two previous additions were completed in 1986 and 2005.