Ursuline Welcomes Fordham University President

President Tania Tetlow, Fordham University's first female and first lay president, shared a powerful message about fostering a spirit of service and dedication while addressing Ursuline juniors and seniors on Friday, October 27. Tetlow, whose groundbreaking career includes work as an assistant United States attorney, law professor, and president at two Catholic universities, including Loyola University New Orleans, touted the enduring value of an all-girls education during her remarks. "You've all made a good choice in Ursuline," she stated.

In a conversation moderated by Unison editors Sarah Brannigan '24 and Theresa Montana '25, President Tetlow emphasized the importance of the Ursuline motto of Serviam. "God wired us to be happy when we help others," she stated. A spirit of service and dedication is inherently powerful. "You can turn off anxiety and isolation by helping others."

President Tetlow also visited a 6th-grade Computer Science class and met with students from two of Ursuline's new signature programs, which aim to strengthen skills in entrepreneurship, business, and finance. 

Senior Maeve Ryan shared her experiences in Ursuline's Girls With Impact program. "It's so impactful," Ryan beamed when describing how she utilized newly acquired skills to launch her own business, Metro Money Makers. 

Julia Kret '24 explained how she uses Ursuline's Bloomberg terminal in the Lab for Financial Markets and Literacy to track and analyze stocks, including AMC and Lululemon. Sophomore Elizabeth LaScala added that she's thinking of business school and feeling encouraged and prepared. "I am so thankful that I got a college-level opportunity here at Ursuline as a freshman in high school," she raved.

Also in attendance was Class of '23 valedictorian and current Fordham University freshman Jenna Cain. She was delighted when Dr. Melnyk invited her back to Ursuline to meet President Tetlow.

"It's inspiring to see a strong woman in power and watch as her efforts trickle down to the students," said Cain. As for the fireside chat presentation, Cain, a Chemistry major, was happy to learn about Tetlow's plan to invest in STEM at the university. "It was equal parts refreshing and awesome," said Cain. "I am very happy to be back!"