Ursuline is proud to announce President Gretchen Kane as a Work of Heart Recipient. She was presented with the award at the Sesquicentennial & Founders Day Student Celebration on Friday, February 2.

Gretchen's nomination letter from her co-workers stated:

“Gretchen has exceeded all expectations as a faith-filled leader working closely together with the Ursuline Sisters, the Dallas diocese, our board of trustees, alumnae, parents, past and present, and our co-workers to give our young women an outstanding Catholic education here at Ursuline.”

“I don’t think that Gretchen has ever met a stranger. Her kindness and sincerity draws students to her. She genuinely shows an interest in everyone she meets. Her faith is evident in our adult advisories, during mass, and prayer services. She is compassionate and generous to her Ursuline faculty and students.”

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“Those of us dedicated to Catholic education strive to transcend our personal limitations by reaching out to companions of like heart and mind and by searching for wisdom figures, those who embody expert knowledge, insight, and truth," said Kane. "I have been more than blessed to have found these in my co-workers at Ursuline Academy which makes it all the more special to me that they would deem me worthy of the Work of Heart Award.”

"I have had the privilege to work closely with Gretchen over the past ten years and see her commitment to Catholic education through her faith in action every day," said Principal Dr. Andrea Shurley. "A model of faith and Christian service, she brings her deep and joyful love of God to students, faculty, staff, and parents in every situation. When she leads us in prayer, it is from her heart, and we are all uplifted."

About the Work of Heart Award

The Work of Heart Award Program was created in partnership with The Catholic Foundation by a donor who sought to achieve a unique charitable purpose. The award, funded by a grant from The Catholic Foundation, was originally created in 2005.

Nominations are submitted by teachers, administrators, staff, chancery employees, students, parents, families, and anyone interested in Catholic education and the well-being of our Dallas area Catholic schools. The Work of Heart looks for “the unsung heroes” who are going the “extra mile” in serving our educational community and its members.