May 2026
 

Seven lessons to live by: Advice for the Class of '26 

From confidence and resilience to living Serviam, graduates step into what comes next.

As they look ahead, we turn to the words of women who have helped to shape the world in powerful ways. Their insights offer not just inspiration, but direction. Here are seven lessons to carry forward:

1. Define your own worth

"No one can make you feel inferior without your consent."
— Eleanor Roosevelt

Confidence begins within. Trust in your preparation and your purpose as you take your next step.

2. Choose resilience, again and again

"You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them."
— Maya Angelou

There will be moments that test you. What defines you is not what happens, but how you respond.

3. Be the author of your story

"Above all, be the heroine of your life, not the victim."
— Nora Ephron

You are stepping into a new chapter, one that is yours to write. Lead with intention.

4. Reframe failure as part of growth

"Think like a queen. A queen is not afraid to fail. Failure is another stepping stone to greatness."
— Oprah Winfrey

The path forward will not be perfect. Let setbacks shape you, not stop you.

5. Use your voice with purpose

"I raise up my voice—not so that I can shout, but so that those without a voice can be heard."
— Malala Yousafzai

Your voice matters. Use it not only to advocate for yourself, but to stand with others.

6. Lead through action

"Do not wait for leaders; do it alone, person to person."
— Saint Teresa of Calcutta (Mother Teresa)

Leadership is not a title. It is a way of showing up in the world, one action at a time.

7. Hold fast to hope

"Have hope and firm faith in God."
— Saint Angela Merici

St. Angela's words remain a steady guide. Move forward with confidence, grounded in faith and trusting that your path will unfold with purpose.

A final word

“The Class of 2026 will leave Ursuline with so much more than just academic preparation. They’ll leave knowing who they are and feeling ready to lead and serve wherever they’re called.”
— Ms. Robyn Summa '93, principal

The Class of 2026 leaves Ursuline with a foundation built on faith, sisterhood, and a shared commitment to serve. Wherever they go next, that foundation remains.

Lead with courage.
Act with purpose.
And live Serviam.

God bless Ursuline's Class of 2026.

A moment to give back

As the Class of 2026 graduates, we invite you to support them in a simple but meaningful way. What advice would you offer as they step into the next chapter?

👉 Share your words of wisdom HERE in our community poll.