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Serviam in action: Ursuline students lead with purpose

Serviam in action: Ursuline students lead with purpose

by Shannon Dufresne
 

At The Ursuline School, Serviam—Latin for “I will serve”—is more than words on a wall. It is a way of life. Each fall, the Ursuline community embraces St. Angela Merici’s call to serve others with compassion, courage, and faith.

Even gray skies couldn't dampen our Serviam spirit on October 8, as students, faculty, and staff came together to support local families through the 5th Annual Cereal Effect. Hundreds of cereal boxes toppled through the halls in a joyful display of generosity—a reminder of the domino effect that kindness creates. Thanks to the efforts of students, alumnae, and the broader community, HOPE Community Services can help New Rochelle children start their day with a healthy meal.

As part of the event, middle school students learned about childhood hunger and how Ursuline helps fight food insecurity. To deepen their understanding, they skipped breakfast at home that morning, then heard from HOPE Community Services, upperclasswomen, and administrators about the impact hunger has on learning. They ended the morning having breakfast together—a bowl of cereal —connecting firsthand with Ursuline's mission to serve.

“What moves me most is the dedication and joy our students bring to service.”
- Ms. Jennifer Schassler, Serviam coordinator.

Also in October, Ursuline's Breast Cancer Awareness Club led the community in a walk-a-thon, bringing together students, faculty, and staff to raise funds for breast cancer research and the Think Pink Scholarship. The event united the school in compassion and purpose—another example of Serviam in action.

In late October, members of the Warm Hands, Warm Hearts club prepared meals for the Community Service Associates (CSA) of Mount Vernon, which operates a local soup kitchen. Open to all students, the club invites volunteers to help prepare and deliver one meal each month—an act that strengthens empathy and reminds students that service is a shared responsibility.

Looking ahead, Ursuline students and families will be making a splash at the Westchester Polar Plunge on Saturday, November 8, at Rye Playland. Last year, Ursuline students raised more than $30,000 to benefit Special Olympics New York, the highest total in school history and a testament to the enthusiasm and generosity of our students and families.

“What moves me most is the dedication and joy our students bring to service,” said Ms. Jennifer Schassler, Serviam coordinator. “Each girl uses her God-given gifts in her own way, and together, their efforts create something truly beautiful for our community.”

This year, both high school students and Ursuline parents are invited to join Ursuline's team. On-site registration runs from 10:00–11:30 a.m., and the Plunge kicks off at 11:30 a.m. Participating students will earn 10 service hours for taking part in this joyful, community-building event.

For more information or questions about how to get involved, contact Ms. Jennifer Schassler at schasslerj@ursulinenewrochelle.org.

Through these acts of service, Ursuline students continue to lead with heart and purpose, living Serviam each day in ways that strengthen our school community and make a meaningful impact on others.

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