Frances Joseph-Gaudet (1861 – December 1934) was an American educator, social worker and prison reformer, honored as a saint in the Episcopal Church.

[3] Although supporting herself and her children as a seamstress, the young mother dedicated her life to social work and prison reform.

[5] Her home proving too small for her efforts to assist homeless children, Joseph-Gaudet raised $5000 and purchased a farm on Gentilly Road and in 1902 founded the Colored Normal and Industrial School, which eventually encompassed 105 acres and numerous buildings.

In 1919 Gaudet donated the facility to the Episcopal Diocese of Louisiana, which renamed it to honor her, as well as adding Rev.

Episcopal Social Services in New Orleans honors her legacy, and continues to award annual scholarships in her memory.