Last week, Ursuline Academy of Dallas continued a longstanding tradition of global engagement as three faculty delegates and 11 student delegates traveled to Beijing for the first student delegation to China since March 2019.

Established a decade before Ursuline formally launched its Global Education program, this partnership became the model for the Academy’s approach to international exchange. It shaped how Ursuline welcomes visiting students, structures cultural immersion, and fosters meaningful, mission-driven connections across borders. Ten years later, when the Global department was formalized, this relationship served as its foundation.

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Global Advisory Council (@uaglobalgals)

The partnership began with a shared vision. As Beijing Huaxia Girls School was being established, its founder, Dr. Yiru Li, looked to Ursuline as a model of a community grounded in service, leadership, and the education of young women. That alignment of values continues to define the relationship today.

In preparation for this year’s delegation, Ursuline faculty members Cecilia Nipp, Director, Global Relationships & Cultural Exchange, and Angel Chinuntdet, Math Teacher and Associate for Global Relationships, traveled to China last summer to better understand the changes that have taken place in recent years and to ensure a meaningful and informed experience for students. Their work helped reestablish in-person connections and laid the groundwork for this long-awaited return.

The trip also marked a personal return for longtime Ursuline educator Susan Bauer, Director of Research and Educational Innovation, who played an integral role in establishing the partnership and accompanied the delegation. Her presence offered a unique perspective on the program’s growth and continuity over three decades.

During their time in Beijing, students experienced daily life alongside their hosts, participated in classes, and engaged in cultural exchange that extended beyond language. Through shared experiences, they gained a deeper understanding of global perspectives while representing Ursuline’s values abroad.

Ursuline looks forward to continuing this exchange, with hopes of welcoming students from Beijing Huaxia Girls School to Dallas this fall.

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Global Advisory Council (@uaglobalgals)