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A conversation with Principal Robyn Summa '93

A conversation with Principal Robyn Summa '93

Long before Robyn Summa '93 stepped into the classroom as a teacher or the main office as assistant principal for curriculum and instruction, she found her calling at The Ursuline School as a student Peer Minister. It was there that she discovered a love for guiding younger students, a deep connection to Ursuline's foundress, St. Angela Merici, and a life's work guided by Serviam. Today, as principal of The Ursuline School, that early sense of purpose comes full circle.

What follows is a conversation between President Dr. Colleen Melnyk and Principal Robyn Summa '93, offering readers a front-row seat as they reflect on leadership, mission, and the future of Ursuline.

Dr. Melnyk: You have known Ursuline in so many ways, as a student, alumna, educator, and administrator. As you step into your new role as principal, what excites you most about leading the school right now?

Ms. Summa: I'm really excited to serve this community in a way that feels familiar and meaningful. Ursuline has shaped who I am, and stepping into the role of principal is both humbling and deeply rewarding. I'm grateful for the trust placed in me to lead our school and support our students, faculty, and families each day.

I'm also excited to help shape an experience for our students that honors Ursuline's legacy. Having worked alongside our sister schools, I've seen how the Ursuline mission comes to life around the world, and I can't wait to share that spirit with our students.


Dr. Melnyk: Academic excellence is one of our Core Values and a hallmark of an Ursuline education. As you look ahead, how do you see our classrooms continuing to challenge and support students in the years to come?

Ms. Summa: Academic excellence is something we're proud of at Ursuline, and it grows out of strong teaching and meaningful relationships in our classrooms. As we look ahead, it means continuing to challenge students to think critically and embrace new ideas and technologies. Above all, we're preparing our students not just for college but for life by building on what we do best and staying focused on how students learn best.


Dr. Melnyk: Ursuline's mission is something we return to often, especially in times of change. More than words on the wall, it shapes the work that we do. How does our mission inform your vision for how we serve our students at every grade level?

Ms. Summa: Today, more than ever, it’s important to help young women grow into confident, compassionate leaders who care about the greater good. Our mission comes to life every day in our classrooms, conversations, and shared experiences. When students learn to think for themselves, lead with confidence, and act with empathy, they leave Ursuline ready to make a real difference wherever they go, and ultimately, that's our goal.


Dr. Melnyk: Over the years, you've experienced life at Ursuline from many different vantage points. How does that lived experience shape the way you approach leadership today? 

Ms. Summa: I've experienced Ursuline in many different ways, and that gives me a deep trust in this community and a real understanding of its strength. I've stood where our students, teachers, and families stand today, and that perspective shapes how I lead. I know the decisions we make affect everyday life at the school, and trust helps us work openly together while always keeping what's best for students at the center.


Dr. Melnyk: As you look ahead, where do you see opportunities to continue strengthening the student experience at Ursuline?

Ms. Summa: Ursuline already offers an incredible experience, and I want to be thoughtful about how we continue to build on it. That means listening, reflecting, and looking for small, intentional ways to make a real difference for students. Across academics, student life, and activities, my focus is on helping students feel supported, challenged, and fully engaged.


Dr. Melnyk: Serviam, our school motto,  is woven into daily life at Ursuline in both large and small ways. How do you hope students come to understand and live that call during their time here?

Ms. Summa: Students already live out Serviam in meaningful ways at Ursuline—through service opportunities and in the everyday care they show one another. Just this week, students, parents, and alumnae came together for International Day of Serviam to support Hope Community Services in New Rochelle, which was a wonderful example of our community in action. I hope these experiences continue to grow, helping students recognize their own gifts and how they can use them to serve others.

We were also thrilled to learn that two seniors were selected by the Ursuline Education Network for the 2026 Student Service Award, placing them among just 20 students nationwide. Service has long been at the heart of Ursuline, and when Serviam is lived day in and day out, it becomes part of who our students are—and something they carry with them long after they graduate.


Dr. Melnyk: As students and families look toward the future of Ursuline, what programs or priorities do you hope will give them the greatest sense of confidence about where the school is headed?

Ms. Summa: I hope they feel confident in our strong academics, distinctive programs, and commitment to preparing students for the future. Our dedicated faculty create a culture of care, and there are so many opportunities for students at every grade level to grow through faith, service, and activities. By keeping students supported, challenged, and known, we make sure they’re in a place where they can truly thrive.

From her earliest days as a Peer Minister to her role today as principal, Ms. Summa's journey at The Ursuline School reflects a life shaped by service and purpose. What began as a calling to guide younger students now informs a leadership rooted in academic excellence and empathy. Guided by Serviam, she leads the school forward with a deep understanding of its people and a steady commitment to preparing young women to make a meaningful difference in the world.

 

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