Mother Marie-Rose, foundress of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM), found strength in Jesus and Mary, which is why the SNJM motto is, “Jesus and Mary My Strength and My Glory”. The Mission of our Catholic identity and the Charism of the SNJM influences and impacts SMA students, staff, parents, alumnae and boards.

Mission and Charism reflect the foundation of the existence of St. Mary’s Academy. It's about the gifts (Charism) of our heritage — the gifts of the SNJM Congregation, which were given to Mother Marie-Rose (born Eulalie Durocher) by God and in turn shared with the Church and world.

Mother Marie-Rose's passion and vision for education in the faith, with an emphasis on those most in need, was the spirit that propelled and guided our four founding Manitoba SNJM to build our historic and foundational school. It's our responsibility and privilege to continue to ensure that our Catholic identity (mission) and the expression of it through our gifts (Charism) continue to flourish.