New Global Ed lineup blends purpose, discovery, and perspective

New Global Ed lineup blends purpose, discovery, and perspective

by Shannon Dufresne
 


Global Education, a signature component of the Ursuline experience, takes an interdisciplinary approach that connects academic study with real-world issues, travel, and cultural exchange. Its dynamic initiatives continue to evolve each year in meaningful ways.

This summer, Director of Global Education Mrs. Maria Barton '83 P'23 '25 and Interim Principal Ms. Robyn Summa '93 have been developing the year's programming, with plans continuing to take shape. Here's what we're excited to share so far:

Global Symposium Focus: Fair Trade

The 2025-26 Global Symposium will focus on Fair Trade—a movement that promotes equitable wages, safe working conditions, and sustainable practices in developing countries. Slated for the first week of March 2026, the symposium will guide students in exploring how everyday consumer choices connect to broader global systems.

Mrs. Barton spent the summer researching and reaching out to potential speakers. Her goal is to give students a closer look at the real-life impact of Fair Trade—from labor conditions and pricing to community development and environmental sustainability.

Exploring the World, Ursuline-Style

In addition to the Global Symposium, Mrs. Barton is coordinating three student travel experiences for the year ahead. While still in the planning stages, we're excited to announce the trip destinations.

The eco-tour to Costa Rica, planned for February 2026, will give juniors and seniors the chance to explore biodiversity, sustainability, and conservation efforts. In April, an Art and Cultural trip to Paris and Nice will offer an immersive experience in French art, history, and culture for students in grades 10, 11, and 12. That same month, the Junior European Trip will take students to Greece to engage with the country's rich blend of ancient heritage and modern Mediterranean life.

I’m thrilled that our students will have these enriching opportunities to learn, explore, and grow beyond the classroom. I’m deeply grateful to Mrs. Barton for her dedication and hard work in creating such meaningful experiences for our Ursuline community.”
- Ms. Robyn Summa '93, Interim Principal

It's already shaping up to be an interesting year for Global Education at Ursuline. We will reveal more details once we finalize our plans.

  • Global Education
  • academics

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