Robyn Summa '93 appointed principal of The Ursuline School

Robyn Summa '93 has been appointed principal of The Ursuline School, following a national search and a year of steady leadership as interim principal.

A proud member of the Class of 1993, Ms. Summa has devoted more than 20 years of her professional career to Ursuline, serving as a teacher, science department chair, and assistant principal of curriculum and instruction. Over that time, she has come to embody the school's mission and Core Values through daily practice, leadership, and service alongside students and colleagues.

"Robyn leads with deep purpose and a strong sense of responsibility to this community," said Dr. Colleen Melnyk, president of The Ursuline School. "Her leadership reflects our mission and Core Values in the way she engages students, collaborates with faculty and staff, and approaches her work with care and integrity."

During her tenure as interim principal, Ms. Summa led the school with steadiness and care while also embracing forward-thinking approaches to education. Known for her humor, intellect, and approachability, she has long been a favorite of students, faculty, and staff alike.

"Robyn's leadership is grounded in Ursuline's tradition while remaining attentive to the changing landscape of education," Dr. Melnyk said. "She brings a future-focused perspective to her work, helping ensure the school continues to meet the evolving needs of students in an increasingly complex and technologically driven world."

"Robyn's leadership is grounded in Ursuline's tradition while remaining attentive to the changing landscape of education."
- Dr. Colleen Melnyk, president

Ms. Summa has consistently championed innovation that strengthens teaching and learning, supports faculty collaboration, and prepares students to thrive in a rapidly changing global landscape. At the same time, her leadership remains firmly rooted in Ursuline's mission-centered approach to education, ensuring that academic excellence is paired with character, service, and faith.

Her commitment to academic excellence and developing the whole person extends well beyond the classroom. Over the years, Ms. Summa has accompanied Ursuline students on numerous domestic and international trips, near and far, including trips to South Africa and Costa Rica. Her leadership exemplifies her belief in the importance of Serviam and global awareness as part of student formation.

Ms. Summa will be formally installed as principal on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, a date of particular significance for the Ursuline community as it coincides with the Feast of St. Angela Merici, foundress of the Ursuline Sisters.

She will work closely with the school's leadership team, including Ms. Laura Barnett, who has been appointed assistant principal for curriculum and instruction after serving as interim assistant principal. Ms. Barnett has been part of the Ursuline community for 10 years, first as a mathematics teacher and later as math department chair. Prior to entering education, she spent more than 20 years in a corporate leadership role at Verizon, then made a purposeful transition to Catholic education. Deeply committed to teaching and learning, she is known for her love of working with students and is embracing her new role with enthusiasm.

"These appointments affirm both continuity and momentum."
- Dr. Colleen Melnyk, president

Together with Mrs. Liz Lynch, assistant principal for student life, they provide collaborative, mission-driven leadership focused on stewarding Ursuline's present and future.

"These appointments affirm both continuity and momentum," Dr. Melnyk said. "The school’s leadership team will carry forward Ursuline's tradition while guiding the school into its next chapter."