Our Heritage - Deaconess Foundation

The Deaconess Heritage was planted in faith and health more than a century ago.

The Deaconess Spirit abides in our work of creating conditions that support health and well-being for all people in Southern Illinois and Eastern Missouri.

A new Sisters’ home opens at 4117 West Belle Place.

1930

Deaconess Hospital is dedicated at 6150 Oakland Avenue.

1943

School of Nursing is established.

1956

Deaconess Memorial Chapel is dedicated.

1989

At Centennial, Deaconess establishes Deaconess Parish Nurse Ministries and publishes The Deaconess Heritage.

1997

Deaconess Incarnate Word Health System is sold to Tenet Health System.

1998

Deaconess begins grantmaking as health conversion foundation focusing on the children of the St. Louis community.

2004

Deaconess Impact Partnership is created.

2010

Sister Marie Lee, the last surviving Deaconess Sister, dies at the age of 100.

2014

At 125^th anniversary, Deaconess publishes The Deaconess Spirit: 125 Years in Mission and initiates advocacy approach.

2016

Deaconess launches network of Children’s Defense Fund Freedom Schools.

2017

Deaconess begins sponsoring Children Defense Fund Freedom Schools®

2017

Just for Kids Anchor Institutions Program established.

2018

Deaconess Center for Child Well-Being was consecrated and opened at 1000 Vandeventer Avenue.

2022

Deaconess Board of Trustees transitioned the Racial Equity Taskforce to a standing Racial Equity Committee.

2023

Deaconess Board of Trustees affirmed the new strategic approach and aspiration of liberation in seven generations.

2024

Deaconess Board of Trustees adopted new values of faith, healing, liberation, and justice.