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'Take 5' with Ursuline’s Interim Chair of Academic and College Counseling

'Take 5' with Ursuline’s Interim Chair of Academic and College Counseling

by Shannon Dufresne
 

The Ursuline School is proud to welcome Mrs. Kathy Reilly P'13 as the interim chair of the Academic and College Counseling Department. A seasoned college counseling professional and devoted parent of an Ursuline alumna, Mrs. Reilly brings warmth, wisdom, and deep experience to this vital role. She is passionate about helping students find their unique path with confidence and purpose. Get to know Mrs. Reilly in this special "Take 5" spotlight.

Looking back at your school days, where did you grow up, and what were some of your favorite subjects in school? 

I grew up in Maryland. My favorite subjects were Science and English. 

What activities or experiences shaped who you are today?

As a teen, I worked at a tennis club where I strung racquets and taught lessons to kids. It combined responsibility, fun, and a love for the sport. I also enjoyed being creative, especially through sewing projects. Outside of school, I kept busy with part-time jobs and babysitting, which helped me become independent and organized at a young age.

What inspired your career in education?

I started in college admissions and found it incredibly rewarding to help high school students navigate the application process. I loved visiting schools, having honest conversations, and helping students find their fit. That sense of purpose—guiding students to discover what excites them and where they'll thrive—still fuels me today.

I've seen firsthand how private Catholic high schools foster academic excellence, moral development, and a sense of purpose. When the opportunity at Ursuline came up, it felt like the perfect fit."
- Mrs. Kathy Reilly, interim chair, Academic & College Counseling

Why Ursuline?

Ursuline is special to me both personally and professionally. My daughter graduated from Ursuline and had a truly wonderful experience—she was supported by her teachers and surrounded by her closest friends. As parents, we saw how the school helped her grow into a confident, purposeful young woman. Having worked at Iona Prep for eight years, I also deeply value Catholic education. I've seen firsthand how private Catholic high schools foster academic excellence, moral development, and a sense of purpose. When the opportunity at Ursuline came up, it felt like the perfect fit.

What are you most looking forward to this year?

Getting to know the students! The college process can feel overwhelming, but I want them to know it can also be empowering and even exciting. I love visiting colleges and learning what makes each one unique, and I can't wait to help students find the places where they'll truly thrive. I'm passionate about showing students that they have a wide range of options and encouraging them to keep an open mind throughout their search. My goal is to guide them with clarity, compassion, and encouragement every step of the way.

From tennis courts to college campuses, Mrs. Reilly's journey has been guided by connection, growth, and a deep belief in every student's potential. As she steps into this interim role, we're thrilled to welcome her to the Ursuline community and look forward to all the ways she will walk alongside our students, encouraging their dreams, celebrating their strengths, and helping them navigate their unique paths with confidence and purpose.

 

  • Academic & College Counseling
  • Spotlight

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