"Why did you abandon us, Mr. Lepley?!"  Without question, that was the comment I heard most often this summer. After 20 years as a senior advisor and senior teacher, in addition to eight years as Senior Grade Dean, I understood why. For the entire duration of my Ursuline tenure, I was closely tied to one class level, so my initial reaction was to defend my decision and explain myself. But as the summer unfolded and I had opportunities to connect with students from every grade, my answer began to change. 

I met many of our newest Bears through UA101 and began planning for my first-ever freshman advisory. To be honest, I have not been this excited about a new opportunity in quite some time! I also invited members of Student Council to lunch to discuss the year ahead and share their insights as I finalized my goals for Ursuline this year. I connected with Sophomore Student Council as they began conceptualizing their lounge and Homecoming plans, and I enjoyed catching up with juniors in summer school who were eager to step into their roles as upperclassmen. And, as always, I continued working with seniors on the Senior Closet, senior polos, and the Freshman Dance, three of my favorite traditions that help kick off the school year and celebrate the leadership and spirit of our senior class. 

As I spent time with students across all four grade levels, I found myself increasingly energized by the opportunity to support each class in a different way. So eventually, my response became: "Let me tell you how excited I am to work with each grade level and why!" This year, you will hear a great deal about our school theme, Joy (Psalm 16:11). Last week, I had the opportunity to speak with our faculty about the "Joy of Students," and I left that session reminded of something powerful: our entire community cannot wait to welcome students back as they are who make coming to work so special. There is tremendous energy and optimism on campus, and it is a privilege to walk alongside our students as they grow spiritually, academically, emotionally, and socially during their four years at Ursuline. 

We want every student to feel connected, valued, and confident that she belongs here. 

Our outstanding new Freshman Grade Dean, Catherine Tielkemeier, has embraced the school theme of Joy while also introducing a class theme of Invite. That word beautifully captures one of the Dean of Students Office's highest priorities: helping every student transition well, not only academically, but socially and relationally. 

My invitation to you as parents is simple: encourage your daughter to embrace opportunities to invite others in. What might it look like for her to put others before herself (Philippians 2:3-4)? Perhaps it is welcoming someone new to her lunch table, inviting a classmate outside her immediate friend group to Homecoming, or taking the first step in helping someone feel known and included.  At Ursuline, the spirit of Serviam extends far beyond service hours. It is reflected in the way we treat one another each day. We want every student to feel connected, valued, and confident that she belongs here. 

The Dean of Students Office is excited to help create a joyful school year, one in which students grow closer to Jesus, deeper in friendship, and stronger in their sense of purpose. Please know that we are always here to answer questions, offer support, or partner with you in any way we can. We are grateful for the trust you place in us and look forward to a wonderful year together. 

In Serviam, 

Matt Lepley

Dean of Students