Ursuline’s Innovation Campaign, the largest capital campaign in the 125-year history of the school, has exceeded its stated goal raising over $8.6 million in gifts and pledges. The ambitious plan to build top-notch learning and community spaces reflects the school community’s commitment to best prepare Ursuline students for college life and beyond while equipping teachers with state-of-the-art facilities to support innovative teaching across the curriculum.
“It’s an amazing moment for The Ursuline School,” stated Cathy Fay McCarthy, Ursuline’s Director of Philanthropy. “This ambitious Capital Campaign was launched months before a global pandemic and, despite the uncertainty, our devoted donors were undeterred. Nor did our school leadership waiver in their commitment to complete this transformational project on budget and on time.”
Ursuline’s financial success and construction completion are all the more remarkable considering that the pandemic disrupted school operations, including the normal fundraising calendar. During Covid-19, unanticipated needs became urgent in order to safely teach students and best equip teachers.
Ultimately, the success of the Innovation Campaign means that the Ursuline campus fully supports the forward-thinking approach to teaching that is the hallmark of an Ursuline education. The campus expansion and renovation project includes a beautifully appointed lobby, state-of-the-art security center, bookstore, expanded Admissions suite, collaborative room, high-tech media conference center, spacious student commons area, and the Innovation Hub (iHub) and makerspace classrooms. “It is exciting to offer students a modern educational environment, as well as community gathering spaces that inspire collaboration and lasting friendships,” said school President Dr. Colleen Melnyk.
Recently, the Innovation Campaign expansion and renovation initiative was named an “Outstanding Project of 2022” by the design jury of the educational publication, “Learning by Design.” This is welcome news for both The Ursuline School community and project leaders from KG&D Architects. The national recognition is no surprise to Ursuline students who revel in the richness this project adds to day-to-day student life.
Student Council co-presidents Lucy Gomez and Amelia Dolis were in the eighth grade when the project began. They are overjoyed with the outcome. Gomez put it simply, “These new spaces are crucial!" Dolis adds, “Because of our amazing Ursuline community and donors, we are able to study, hang out with friends, and create lasting memories.”
When reflecting on the overall success, McCarthy, Ursuline’s Director of Philanthropy, also a proud member of the Class of ‘84 and alumnae parent, finds herself recalling the words of St. Angela Merici, foundress of the Order of St. Ursula. “'Do something. Get moving. Be confident. Risk new things. Stick with it. Pray. Then be ready for big surprises,'” relays McCarthy. “St. Angela’s words could not be more appropriate today!”
- News