The high school, now known as Xavier University Preparatory School, opened on 27 September 1915 and was originally named after Francis Xavier. In May 1916, Xavier was incorporated under the title, "Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament for Indians and Colored People, of Louisiana," according to the laws of the state, and the name, "Xavier" University, was cut into the stone slab above the main entrance thus replacing the name, "Southern University." Also known as Xavier Prep, it remained in operation until 2013; today, St. Katharine Drexel Preparatory School operates from the same location on Magazine Street in New Orleans.