Chiseled in the cornerstone is the year “1964”. It was the year that St. Vincent de Paul School and Convent was built. One year earlier, this prime parcel of approximately 20 acres of land was filled with apple and pear trees. At this time and with a leap of faith, Father Mark Benvegnu, pastor of St. Vincent de Paul Church in Murray, Utah was approached about the need for a Catholic School in this area. In the spring of 1963, twelve acres between Spring Lane and King’s Row was purchased from Mr. and Mrs. Long. The architectural plans were drawn by William “Will” Louie and the building and community were formed.
The first kindergarten class of sixty-four children attended school in the basement of the church on Wasatch Street in 1963. Father Benvegnu appealed to Bishop Lennox Federal for teaching nuns and the Bishop suggested making application to the Bishop in Ireland. It would take two years for Father’s request to become a reality and in early summer of 1965 the Presentation Sisters arrived. In its formative years, St. Vincent School was privileged to have the influence of these Presentation Sisters who were a dynamic force in the parish and community as well. Our appreciation and affection for them is infinite. The founding sisters were Sister Annunciata Keough, principal (deceased), Sister Evangelist Ryan, principal, Sister Lelia O’Sullivan, principal, Sister Mary Casey, Sister Assumpta Buckley (deceased). The last class to graduate under the Presentation Sisters’ leadership was the class of 1994.
Following the Sisters departure, Dr. Galey Colosimo became the first lay principal to lead the school. After a year and a half, Dr. Colosimo left to plan the construction of the Skaggs Catholic Center. Antionette Houston, the assistant principal, became the principal and led the school for three and half years. Mark Longe was her successor and was principal for 19 years until 2015, when he left to become the Superintendent of Utah Catholic Schools. Currently Gary Green, who was a vice principal for 8 years is now the current principal. A dedicated staff of lay people has continued the Sisters fine work of education. For over 50 years, the St. Vincent’s parents have contributed greatly to the success of the school and have helped to create the welcoming Christian environment of today’s St. Vincent’s community.