Marcellin Champagnat was a French priest born on May 20, 1789, in the village of Marlhes. He is best known for founding the Marist Brothers, a religious congregation dedicated to the education of young people, especially the poor. Champagnat believed in the importance of nurturing faith and character in children through education. In 1817, he established the first Marist school in La Valla, France. His approach emphasized kindness, simplicity, and a personal connection with students. Champagnat's work laid the foundation for a global network of schools and educational institutions, promoting the values of compassion and service in education.