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Love in action: Cultivating students who serve

Love in action: Cultivating students who serve

At The Ursuline School, Serviam, "I will serve" is far more than a motto. It is love in action. Rooted in St. Angela Merici's call to lead with compassion and humility, Serviam shapes the way Ursuline students learn and build community each day.

Jennifer Schassler sees this commitment firsthand in her role as Ursuline's service coordinator. Working with students across all grade levels, Schassler says she is inspired daily by their sincerity and generosity.

Her reflection comes to life in so many ways at Ursuline. One example is the Polar Plunge, which shows the enthusiasm our students bring to serving others.

“Our students amaze me. They show an inexhaustible willingness to serve, such genuine care for others.”
- Ms. Jennifer Schassler, service coordinator

A Polar Plunge with purpose

On Saturday, Nov. 8, that dedication was on full display at the Polar Plunge at Rye Playland Beach. More than 150 Ursuline high school students braved the chilly water and raised nearly $30,000 for Special Olympics New York, making it one of the region’s largest school contributions.

Students from Iona Prep, Salesian High School, and other Westchester schools joined them along the bright shoreline on a cloudless morning. Schassler said the energy perfectly captured the joy and unity that often define service at Ursuline.

"The atmosphere was electric," she said. "Seeing so many students come together for the same cause, and doing it with such enthusiasm, it reminded me why this work matters."

She also commended senior leaders Meredith and Marin, whose thoughtful leadership set a strong foundation for future efforts. Younger students, she noted, are already eager to take part next year.

Serving with alumnae leadership

Service continued throughout the month. On Wednesday, Nov. 19, a group of Ursuline students headed to Trinity Episcopal Church in New Rochelle to prepare bagged lunches for neighbors in need.

While many enjoyed the first day of Thanksgiving break with friends and family, a group of Koalas spent the morning sorting food, assembling sandwiches, and distributing meals. Students served alongside alumna and Board of Trustees member the Hon. Donna Edwards '75, whose example of compassionate leadership reflects the heart of the Ursuline mission.

Caring for local families

Thanks to the generosity of our students and families, this year's Thanksgiving Food Drive met its goal once again. From frozen turkeys and hams to shelves of nonperishable items for St. Peter's Food Pantry in Yonkers, our community came together with purpose and compassion. Watching our students rally around local families—especially at this time of year—shows that Serviam is not a moment, but a mindset.

Sharing the spirit of Serviam this Christmas

This year's Christmas Toy Drive, coordinated by the Mothers' Auxiliary, surpassed its goal earlier than expected thanks to the extraordinary generosity of Ursuline families, faculty, and staff.

"We set out to provide Christmas gifts for 220 children at St. Raymond's School in the Bronx," Schassler said. "Our school community responded with overwhelming kindness." Gifts valued at $25 or less poured in through the Amazon Christmas Wish List. In the days ahead, students will wrap and prepare each one for delivery.

Alongside the Toy Drive, Ursuline students brought holiday magic to the Elizabeth Seton Children's Center, the nation's largest post-acute care center for children with complex medical needs, on Dec. 4. Accompanied by Schassler, the students decorated the facility, bringing the warmth of the season as they set up a holiday train set, decorating Christmas trees, and delivering handmade Christmas cards. Ninth-graders crafted the cards as part of Dylan's Holiday Project, a tradition honoring the joyful and giving spirit of Dylan, whose legacy continues to inspire kindness. 

On Thursday, Dec. 18, members of the Angel Club will return to the Center to sort and wrap gifts, ensuring that each child receives a thoughtful surprise prepared with care.

These experiences deepen students' understanding of compassionate service and reveal the heart of Serviam during a season defined by generosity and connection. Their enthusiasm and commitment affirm a powerful truth at Ursuline: service is a joyful way of living generously all year long.

Looking ahead to International Serviam Day

As we continue through this season of giving, Ursuline is already looking ahead to how our community will extend this spirit into the new year.

Schassler has begun planning for International Serviam Day, scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 24. This annual event invites the entire school community to join coordinated service projects across the region. This year, Ursuline will serve alongside the Academy of Mount St. Ursula as both communities live out the Ursuline mission through meaningful acts of service.

"Serviam is alive here," said Schassler. "As we move into the holiday season, I’m encouraged by the way our students continue to show up for others." 

At Ursuline, service is an essential part of formation. Each act of kindness or advocacy reflects our mission and answers St. Angela's enduring call to "serve with love." In living that call, Ursuline students show that Serviam truly is "love in action."

 

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