Ursuline's Tully Family Auditorium-Gym was filled with joy, reflection, and celebration on the evening of May 20, 2025, as the school community gathered to honor the achievements and spirit of the Class of 2025. The Graduation Liturgy and Awards Ceremony came together in a meaningful tribute that marked a poignant farewell and the exciting start of new beginnings. Surrounded by family, faculty, and friends, the graduates stood at the threshold of their next chapter, rooted in faith, strengthened by their shared values, and ready to step forward with courage and purpose.

The evening began with a heartfelt Call to Worship from Dr. Colleen Melnyk, president, who set a reflective and hopeful tone for the liturgy. She acknowledged the seniors' deep sense of satisfaction and accomplishment while honoring the complex emotions of saying goodbye—comfort, joy, and a touch of sadness. Most importantly, she encouraged the graduates to place their trust in God and His unique plan for each of them, affirming that their Ursuline foundation would guide them in the years ahead.

Building on this message of faith and purpose, Father Tom Byrnes delivered a powerful homily that centered on the presence of the Holy Spirit in the graduates' lives. Drawing inspiration from Pope Leo and the power of saying "yes" to God's call, he urged the seniors to carry forward the unity and love they had built together as a class. Father Tom also offered heartfelt gratitude to the parents, recognizing their sacrifices and unwavering support that made an Ursuline education possible. His words reminded everyone in the room that faith, lived out in small acts of love, is the greatest gift of all.

Following the homily, the Presentation of the Gifts included a touching tribute that connected generations. Sixteen alumnae mothers of graduating seniors were honored with long-stemmed yellow roses and invited to join their daughters in the procession. This moment highlighted a shared family legacy, the lasting impact of an Ursuline education, and the bonds of sisterhood across time.

As the liturgy came to a close, the Class of 2025 stood together to recite the final blessing in unison. Their prayer, rooted in gratitude and courage, echoed the spirit of St. Angela and reaffirmed their commitment to live out Serviam in all they do. It was a unifying moment that captured the heart of Ursuline's mission and the deep bonds formed over years of shared experience.

Enhancing the beauty and spirit of the evening was the Cantors and instrumental Mass Ensemble, made up of students, faculty, and staff. Their musical gifts enriched the liturgy from the very first notes of the opening hymn, "Table of Plenty," setting a prayerful tone. Their voices and accompaniment carried throughout the celebration, weaving together each moment harmoniously.

Following the liturgy, the focus shifted to celebration and recognition during the awards ceremony. Seniors moved from their seats beside their families and gathered as a class in front of the stage, where Interim Principal Ms. Robyn Summa and Assistant Principal Mrs. Liz Lynch opened the ceremony by honoring Valedictorian Katie Miller and Salutatorian Anjali Shafiee. The evening continued with the presentation of awards for leadership, volunteer service, science research, athletics, and more, highlighting the many talents and contributions of the Class of 2025.

As the final award was announced and the evening came to a close, the spirit of the celebration lingered. It was a moving expression of gratitude for the journey these students have shared and a hopeful sendoff as they step into the future. With faith at their center and the Ursuline values in their hearts, the Class of 2025 now looks ahead with confidence and anticipation to the bright futures that await them. May God continue to bless Ursuline's Class of 2025.