In late February, members of Ursuline Academy of Dallas’s National Honor Society traveled to Washington, D.C., to attend the National Honor Society LEAD Conference, an experience designed to strengthen leadership skills, inspire service, and connect students with peers from across the country. The trip combined meaningful learning opportunities with moments of reflection, friendship, and discovery in the nation’s capital.

Representing Ursuline were Adeline M. '26, Claudia H. '26, Emily P. ’26, Makayla S. ’26, Sabrina W. ’26, and Sydnie M. '26, who immersed themselves in workshops, keynote sessions, and collaborative discussions centered on leadership, scholarship, service, and character.

For many students, NHS provides a community rooted in shared purpose. Emily P. ’26 shared that her favorite part of NHS is “being surrounded by motivated, hard-working Ursuline girls who are all eager to strive for success, foster a spirit of Serviam, and look for opportunities to strengthen their leadership skills.” Sabrina W. ’26 echoed this sentiment, explaining that she joined NHS because scholarship and leadership are deeply important to her and because she wanted to make a difference within the school community.

Throughout the conference, students recognized how the skills developed at Ursuline translated into real-world leadership experiences. Sabrina W. ’26 noted that NHS helped her develop leadership and public speaking skills, enabling her to lead with integrity during conference sessions. Makayla S. ’26 reflected that NHS has taught her to lead with character and intention, helping her thoughtfully listen to others while confidently sharing her own ideas. Learning about successful service initiatives from schools across the nation inspired her to consider new ways to serve the Ursuline community.

A highlight of the conference was hearing from Olympic gold medalist Laurie Hernandez, whose message of confidence, positivity, and resilience resonated deeply with students. Emily P. ’26 described the opportunity as inspiring, emphasizing how Hernandez’s perseverance serves as a powerful example for young leaders.

Outside the conference, students explored historic landmarks in the nation's capital together. From the Lincoln Memorial to the Washington Monument, the National Mall tour allowed students to experience firsthand the history they have studied in classrooms. Sabrina W. ’26 shared that one of her favorite parts of the trip was growing closer with her classmates while exploring the city’s iconic sites.

The conference also left students with lasting lessons about leadership and impact. Emily P. ’26 reflected that leadership has no age requirement and that even one positive leader can change another person’s life.

Above all, the experience reinforced gratitude for the opportunities available at Ursuline. As Emily P. ’26 shared, she is thankful that Ursuline provides experiences like the NHS LEAD Conference that help students strengthen their leadership skills and live out the spirit of Serviam.