PRESS RELEASE - oCT 13, 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Couvent Collective Addresses Pending Sale of Historic Holy Redeemer School
New Orleans, LA – October 13, 2024 – The Couvent Collective, led by Kim M. Braud, has issued an update regarding the future of the historic Holy Redeemer School, located at 1941 Dauphine Street. After submitting a formal proposal to the Archdiocese of New Orleans, including a $1.9 million offer to purchase and preserve the site, it has been revealed that the property is now being sold to cover pending claims against the Archdiocese. The sale of the school is being processed through bankruptcy court.
"We are deeply saddened to learn that Holy Redeemer School is being sold to developers with plans to turn the site into condominiums," said Braud, a Holy Redeemer graduate and direct descendant of the Georgetown 272. "This is not in alignment with the vision of Marie Justine Cirnaire Couvent, who originally donated this land in 1837 for the education of African American orphans. While the sale of the property for condos is disheartening, we remain committed to carrying forward Marie Couvent's legacy of education, community, and empowerment through other means."
Marie Couvent's Legacy
Marie Justine Cirnaire Couvent, a free woman of color, made history by leaving her property to educate African American children. For over 150 years, the site has housed institutions that reflected her mission. The Couvent Collective was formed to honor this vision by transforming the space into a community-driven hub focused on entrepreneurship, education, and economic development.
A Shift in Focus
Although the preservation of Holy Redeemer School is no longer possible, The Couvent Collective is actively considering an alternate location in the City of New Orleans to carry out its mission. However, we are deeply saddened that we cannot continue Marie Couvent’s legacy on the property she originally donated for this purpose. The Collective remains committed to empowering underserved communities through workforce development programs, business incubation, and educational initiatives.
"Our goal is to continue uplifting this community and honoring the spirit of Marie Couvent, even if that means pivoting to new opportunities and locations." added Braud.
Looking Forward
The Couvent Collective will continue to seek avenues for community-driven development and will keep the public updated on future projects that reflect its core mission. In addition, The Couvent Collective has partnered with Larkspur Wealth Management to launch the Legacy Life Initiative, focused on creating an endowment to support future projects, educational programs, and community initiatives that empower underserved populations in New Orleans.
For more information on The Couvent Collective or to get involved, visit www.thecouventcollective.com
About The Couvent Collective:
The Couvent Collective is a community-driven organization dedicated to carrying on the legacy of Marie Justine Cirnaire Couvent. Through initiatives focused on entrepreneurship, education, and community development, the collective aims to foster economic growth and opportunity for underserved communities in New Orleans.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Kim M. Braud
Founder, The Couvent Collective
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