In 1535, Ursulines became the first teaching order of women in the Catholic Church.
On November 25, 1535, the founding of the Company of Saint Ursula signified the creation of the first teaching order of women within the Catholic Church. Merici's initiative to form a secular institute focused on catechetical education underscored the church's evolving understanding of women's roles within religious and civic life. This concept of educating young women in a nurturing environment initiated a legacy of educators who contributed to advancing women's social positions and engagement in public and religious education sectors, marking a revolutionary start in Catholic educational paradigms.