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Ursuline students launch “resQcase” in new Virtual Enterprises course

Ursuline students launch “resQcase” in new Virtual Enterprises course

by Shannon Dufresne
 

Blending creativity, collaboration, and confidence, 22 Ursuline students in the new Virtual Enterprises (VE) course are turning classroom learning into real-world success. Competing at the NYS/NE VE Leadership Conference at Long Island University's Tilles Center, the school's inaugural VE team earned a top-10 finish among 58 participating schools for their original business venture, resQcase—a smart, portable case designed to keep emergency essentials accessible when seconds matter.

“At Ursuline, we believe experiential learning empowers young women to turn knowledge into action. Programs like Virtual Enterprises allow students to apply their skills in meaningful ways, blending innovation with compassion and leadership rooted in our mission.”
- Dr. Colleen Melnyk, president

Under the leadership of CEO Emilia P ’27, the VE team built resQcase from the ground up, developing a full business plan, marketing strategy, and financial model. Students worked across departments—including Marketing, Design, Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, Management, Legal, Risk, Operations, and IT—mirroring the structure of a modern company. Each department contributed its expertise to create a unified brand and launch strategy that stood out among the competition.

“Seeing our ideas come to life and representing Ursuline on the big stage has strengthened my confidence and shown me what’s possible for young women in business.”
- Emilia P ’27

“It’s been such an unforgettable and life-changing experience to lead our team within the Virtual Enterprises program,” said Emilia P ’27, CEO of resQcase. “Seeing our ideas come to life and representing Ursuline on the big stage has strengthened my confidence and shown me what’s possible for young women in business.”

Preparing students for the future of work

Guided by instructor Mrs. Jill Patricot, the VE program mirrors a modern corporate structure, giving students hands-on experience across every business function: marketing, finance, human resources, management, and technology. Participants collaborate using professional tools and compete in national events that replicate real-world challenges, learning how to analyze data, manage teams, and present to investors.

“This program grew directly from our students’ interest in entrepreneurship and leadership,” said Patricot. “Virtual Enterprises helps them develop the confidence, creativity, and collaboration skills that will prepare them for college and future careers.”

A mission-aligned model of innovation

The VE course is open to all high school students. It reflects Ursuline's ongoing commitment to experiential learning that prepares young women to lead with integrity, creativity, and purpose. Through the VE International curriculum, students gain the confidence and competence to navigate today's global marketplace—connecting innovation with Serviam values and using technology as a force for good.

“At Ursuline, we believe experiential learning empowers young women to turn knowledge into action,” said Dr. Colleen Melnyk, president. “Programs like Virtual Enterprises allow students to apply their skills in meaningful ways, blending innovation with compassion and leadership rooted in our mission.”

To learn more about this cutting-edge course and other opportunities in Ursuline’s academic program, visit the Curriculum Guide on our website.

  • Business
  • Distinctly Ursuline
  • academics

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