When I stepped into my new role as Director of Admissions and Enrollment Management a few years ago, one of my first worries was that I might lose touch with the students I had previously interacted with so often as a classroom teacher and Sophomore Grade Dean. To my delight, I quickly realized that I still had “my girls,” just in a different form. As a moderator of the Ursuline Academy Ambassador Leadership Program, I am privileged to work with some of the brightest, most inspiring young women on our campus.

The Ambassadors represent everything that makes Ursuline Academy exceptional. Balancing rigorous academics, demanding extracurriculars, part-time jobs, social lives, and service commitments, these students also devote themselves to representing our school with grace, professionalism, and heart. They are living examples of our school motto, Serviam (“I will serve”) as they give generously of their time and energy to welcome prospective families, connect with alumnae, support our faculty, and strengthen our community in countless ways.

What I love most about the program is that it doesn’t stop with the young women who hold the official title of “Ambassador.” At Ursuline, all students are called to be ambassadors, to live as joyful witnesses of our mission and values. The formal Ambassador Program provides training, opportunities, and structure, but its ripple effect is much greater. Ambassadors are charged not only with representing Ursuline but also with empowering their peers to step up and lead, to share their stories, and to invest in the life of our community. It is inspiring to see so many Ursuline students embody hospitality, authenticity, inclusivity, leadership, and service, even if they don’t wear the Ambassador nametag.

This year, Ursuline’s theme is SEEK, inspired by Jeremiah 29:13: “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” To me, the Ambassador Program is a beautiful reflection of this call. These young women are actively seeking not only to grow as leaders, but also to deepen their connection to God, to one another, and to the wider Ursuline community. They remind us that seeking is an act of courage and openness, whether it is seeking new relationships, deeper understanding, or greater opportunities to serve.

As their moderator, I have the privilege of walking alongside them as they grow into confident leaders who reflect the very best of Ursuline Academy. I am consistently impressed by their passion, humility, and commitment. They are, without question, some of the brightest and best on our campus, and it is a joy to witness the impact they make both here and beyond.

The Ursuline Academy Ambassador Leadership Program is more than a student leadership organization. It is a living, breathing testament to Serviam, a powerful expression of this year’s call to SEEK, and a daily reminder of why I am so blessed to do the work I do.

Jessica Bailey

Director of Admissions and Enrollment Management