Nano Nagle, 1718-1784, was the foundress of the Presentation Sisters. At a time when Catholic schools in Ireland were illegal, within 9 months of opening her first school, 200 girls were in attendance. By 1757 she had opened seven schools, five for girls and two for boys. These schools provided pupils with a basic education and religious instruction.
In 1775 she founded the Society of Charitable Instruction, which sought to work with the poor. After her death this group grew into the famous Presentation Order.