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How quiet confidence and clear goals shape a young leader

How quiet confidence and clear goals shape a young leader

by Shannon Dufresne

From the start of her time at The Ursuline School, Allison Mae ’26 has approached her education with intention. A thoughtful planner and goal-setter, she arrived from public school knowing she wanted more than academic rigor. She sought a place that would expect more of her, challenge her thinking, and give her room to grow with purpose.

“Ursuline felt like a place that would expect more of me,” she said. “I was ready for a challenge.”

The transition from middle school required adjustment, particularly as an all-honors student balancing academics and extracurricular commitments. While the pace and expectations felt intense at first, Allison met that challenge with quiet resolve and found that learning how to push through challenges teaches self-discipline. 

Leading through faith and service

One of the most distinctive expressions of Allison's leadership ability is her work toward earning the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest honor in Scouting America. Formerly known as the Boy Scouts of America, the congressionally chartered organization began welcoming girls in 2019, opening the path for young women to earn the Eagle Scout rank through sustained leadership and service.

Guided by a desire to serve others in a meaningful and lasting way, Allison is designing and leading her required Eagle service project: creating a prayer garden on Ursuline's campus along the senior path near the entrance to the arcade. She hopes the space will offer students a place for calm and reflection. The project reflects her belief that leadership should create a space for others to feel supported — a peaceful, welcoming place to pause, reflect, and reconnect—spiritually, emotionally, and mentally.

"I wanted to create something rooted in compassion." 
- Allison Mae '26

"I wanted to create something rooted in compassion," she said. "I hope it becomes a lasting place of peace for the school community." 

Faith anchors her work at Ursuline. As a Peer Minister, Allison helps other students explore their faith while deepening her own through prayer and co-leading Liturgy of the Word in the St. Angela Chapel each week.

"One quiet moment in the chapel during a stressful week stays with me," she said. "The stillness reminds me that even brief pauses for reflection can change how you approach challenges."

Curiosity that grew into direction

Allison’s academic interests reflect the same thoughtful progression. Her introduction to Ursuline’s Bloomberg Business Program sparked a deep curiosity about global markets and ethical leadership. Working on a Bloomberg terminal for the first time during her sophomore year, she tracked the constant movement of financial data, marveling at how decisions made across the globe could shape outcomes elsewhere.

“With Bloomberg, I began to see that business is not just about numbers or profits,” she said. “I began to see how human behavior is reflected in global decision-making.”

That early curiosity found direction through Ursuline’s business program, where access, mentorship, and opportunity encouraged Allison to go further. She later co-founded Ursuline’s Advanced Bloomberg Program, mentoring peers through certification and advanced data analysis. She also serves as a portfolio manager for the Bloomberg Global Trading Challenge and competes in DECA, an international business competition focused on finance and entrepreneurship.

“Behind every data point is a story of people and choices,” she said. “Leadership in business means using data thoughtfully to make decisions that positively impact others.”

A scholar-athlete shaped by teamwork

Allison brings the same discipline and focus to athletics. As a member of the Varsity Volleyball team, she has developed resilience, accountability, and composure under pressure. Competing at a high level taught her how to communicate clearly and show up consistently for teammates and coaches.

“Volleyball taught me that responsibility comes with being part of any team,” she said, reflecting on the sense of belonging fostered through Ursuline athletics.

Together, academics and athletics have shaped Allison into a well-rounded scholar-athlete who values preparation, consistency, and follow-through.

Leading with intention

Allison describes her leadership style as quiet and grounded, shaped by opportunities that challenged her to step forward when she was ready. She does not seek attention, preferring instead to let her work speak for itself.

“I trust myself to rise to responsibility,” she said. “When an opportunity to grow presents itself, I take it.” Through academics, athletics, Peer Ministry, and scouting, Allison sees a common thread that reinforces habits of discipline and service. 

Looking ahead

Allison plans to pursue a future that blends ambition with purpose. She hopes to study finance and accounting, earn a graduate degree, and possibly attend law school, all while remaining grounded in her Catholic faith and commitment to Serviam.

"My goal is not just to succeed professionally. I want to use my skills to make a positive difference for others."
- Allison Mae '26

"My goal is not just to succeed professionally,” she adds. “I want to use my skills to make a positive difference for others."

Reflecting on her Ursuline journey, Allison hopes her story encourages others to approach growth with intention. Her advice to younger students is clear: Strive for excellence while staying grounded in your values. "Ursuline has given me the space and support to grow into who I am," she says. “I am very grateful."

 

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