"As heirs of the legacy and educational tradition of Barat College and the Religious of the Sacred Heart, the Barat Education Foundation develops and seeks support for innovative scholarships and entrepreneurial educational ventures which reflect the deep commitment to: intellectual, spiritual, and ethical values; empowerment of women, social awareness that impels to action; and the building of community."
Who We Are
The Barat Education Foundation, an independent 501(c)3 organization, was established in 2000 prior to the sale of Barat College to DePaul University. At that time, the Foundation was charged with the development and support of innovative educational programs and services that reflected the values and educational tradition of Barat College.
When DePaul University closed Barat College in June 2005, the Board of Directors voted to perpetuate and build upon the Barat legacy of education, leadership and advocacy.
Today, the Barat Education Foundation is committed to continuing and adapting the heritage and legacy of Barat College to our 21st century world. St. Madeleine Sophie Barat, the foundress of the Society of the Sacred Heart, for whom Barat College was named, clearly challenged those educated in the tradition of the Sacred Heart to be change agents: "Your example even more than your words will be an eloquent lesson to the world".
In response to her challenge and to preserve and advance the Barat College educational legacy the Foundation has launched the Barat Scholars Program. To preserve and advance the Barat legacy in advocacy areas related to social justice and societal change, we have created the Barat Center for Educational Ventures; and to preserve our connection to the Sacred Heart legacy, we continue to work with the Religious of the Sacred Heart on their retirement initiative.
Continuing the Heritage and Legacy of Barat College is simply not enough. Our founder clearly challenged us to carry the mission forward, making education successful amidst the practical realities of today’s world. We must change, we must help others to change, and we must support educational ventures that will create a better future.
The Barat Education Impact:
Creating alliances to magnify the benefits of our programs into underserved or under-recognized communities
Training teachers (over 1000 teachers) on the subjects of technology, pedagogy, critical thinking, primary sources, and student leadership
Motivating students (over 7000 Illinois students) through innovative, compelling project-based learning about history, citizenship and leadership
Providing scholarships to students, teachers and professionals committed to developing citizenship/ leadership skills that will enable them to have a positive and meaningful effect in their communities.
