Shaping Ursuline's future: Strategic planning underway

The Ursuline School has advanced its strategic planning process, building on foundational groundwork to enhance the student experience and ensure that current and future families benefit from a strong, mission-driven education. This vital work is forward-thinking, focusing on the programs, opportunities, and supports that Ursuline students need to thrive while helping the school develop a sustainable vision for the future. It also affirms Ursuline's commitment to continuous improvement, academic excellence, and leadership formation rooted in faith and purpose.

Collaborative process rooted in mission

On November 20-21, 2025, trustees, faculty, staff, alumnae, parents, and community representatives gathered on campus for a strategic planning workshop that marked the next stage of this work. With guidance from Partners in Mission, a nationally respected consulting firm supporting Catholic schools, participants reviewed data, reflected on the student experience, and explored opportunities to strengthen teaching, learning, student life, and formation in the Ursuline tradition.

"I’m grateful for the thoughtful collaboration that is shaping this work and excited for all it will bring to our community.”
- Dr. Colleen Melnyk, president

The workshop reflected the best of Ursuline: collaboration, thoughtful reflection, and a shared commitment to planning boldly for the good of the students and community we serve. President Dr. Colleen Melnyk said, "I’m grateful for the thoughtful collaboration that is shaping this work and excited for all it will bring to our community.”

Charting the path forward

In the weeks ahead, themes and priorities identified during the workshop will be refined into a comprehensive strategic plan. This plan will guide the school over the next five years and ensure alignment with Ursuline's mission and values. The final plan will be presented to the Board of Trustees for ratification in January 2026, in conjunction with the Feast of St. Angela Merici.

A future built together

The strategic planning process reflects the deep care and commitment of the entire Ursuline community, united in service to the young women we educate today and those who will join us in the years to come. As this work continues, Ursuline looks forward to the ways the plan will support students, families, faculty, and staff, affirming the school's mission and building a future grounded in compassion, innovation, and excellence.