Since 1948, Ursuline seniors have celebrated the end of the first semester with the beloved "Snowball" dance. This December tradition, exclusively for the senior class and their dates, offers students a chance to dress up, enjoy time with their classmates, and honor the Snowball Court, which is selected through a unique and charming tradition weeks before the dance.

In the lead-up to Snowball, the senior class gathers in the cafeteria, where a table of cupcakes awaits. These cupcakes, lovingly baked by teachers and senior advisors, hold a surprise—five contain special nuts. Once each student has a cupcake, the class simultaneously bites into it (or tears it apart with their hands) to see if they've made the Court. Finding a walnut means you’re the Snowball Queen, while a pecan earns you a place on the Court.

This whimsical process removes the stress of voting or competition associated with similar traditions. Instead, it makes the selection completely random, adding a sense of fun and lightheartedness to the celebration.

The Ursuline Archives show that the tradition of announcing the Queen at the dance began with the class of 1951, but the cupcake selection started with the class of 1954.

Congratulations to this year's Snowball Court!

👑 Sarah Mathis '25

❄️ Catherine Eakes '25

❄️ Anabel Dieckhaus '25

❄️ Chloe Rice '25

❄️ Allie Licygiewicz '25

Watch this year's Snowball Court selection on Instagram.