Ursuline Academy of Dallas LOGOS Magazine 2011 by Ursuline Academy of Dallas

Ursuline Alumnae Online Community

Sr. lois castillon, O.S.U. Living Our Mission

Global Education Creating New Paths to Learning

agnes kasule ‘01 Empowering Children in Uganda

Ursuline is launching a new Ursuline Alumnae

Getting Started on the Ursuline Alumnae Online Community

Online Community to help you stay connected

with other alumnae and exciting things happening

Class and Chapter Group Pages

Alumnae Portal

ALUMNAE MAGAZINE 2011

at The Ursuline Academy today. AsOnce an you alumna, you have logged into the Alumnae Alumnae Portal is the new “home

Alumnae Directory

Update Your Profile

Stay Connected! You can access contact information for When you are logged in, be sure to click Portal, you can quickly jump to your Class other classmates in the Alumnae Directory on My Profile (left side of page) to keep (left side of page). To control the inforus up to date on your current contact or Chapter Group Page by clicking My mation published about you in the information. If you are unable to access to Groups (left side of page) then clicking on Directory, on Select information to the information you want to change, your or Chapter chapter group pagePages link. On Classclass and Group Alumnaeclick Directory Update Your Profile be published in the online community email alumnae@ursulinedallas.org to your group page(s), you will be able to Once you have logged into the Alumnae You can access contact information for When you are logged in, be sure to click (bottom of the left column of your profile request that the information be changed. post your “Happenings,” plan reunions, Directory Portal, you can quickly jump your Class other classmates in the Alumnae on My Profile (left side of page) to keep Information > page) > click on Publish share photos, view letters andto “HappenMore to your Staycurrent Connected (left side page). Topage) control the inforus up toWays date on contact or Chapter Groupclassmates, Page by clicking Edit of (top of the > select click ings” from other review My mation published the information. If you aare to access to Groups (left side of page) then Facebook: Become fanunable of Ursuline information to be about viewedyou by in various important announcements, andclicking more. on information Directory,community click on Select the information youAlumnae want to change, your class or chapter group page link. On Academy of Dallas Ursuline members > click to How to Share Your “Happenings” be published online email alumnae@ursulinedallas.org to your group page(s), you will be able to , (topAlumnae of in thethe page). Tocommunity returnat to your Log in Save to the Portal www.ursulinedallas.org/alumnae LinkedIn: Join the Ursuline Academy of (bottom of the left column your request that the information be changed. post your “Happenings,” planrelated reunions, A “Happening” is an update to profile click on your name atofthe topprofile of Dallas Alumnae group password-protected page) > click on Publish Information >community includes a directory, news, share photos, view letters “Happenyour personal life such as and career, marriage,This private, the page. More Ways to Stay Connected Edit (top of the page) > select click ings” from other classmates, review Twitter: www.twitter.com/ursulinedallas children, etc. events,Calendar the latest Happenings, and more. Facebook: Become a fan of Ursuline information to be viewed by various important announcements, and more. To share “Happenings” via a Class Note, Academy of Dallas Alumnae Ursuline community click You will be able to seemembers all of the>alumnae How Your “Happenings” log intotoShare the Alumnae Portal, click Save , logging (top of the in? page). To Calendar return Julia to tool. yourFrascoLinkedIn: events at a glance usingContact the Need help '05 in Join thethe Alumnae Officeofat Ursuline Academy Alumnae (left side of page) > click Add or A “Happening” is an update related to profile click your name at thecategory top of Select list oron grid views, choose Dallas Alumnae group 469-232-3587 or jfrasco@ursulinedallas.org. Edit a Class Note > enter text and/or your personal life such as career, marriage, the page. filters, and see only the events that you photos > etc. click Submit. Your Class Note Twitter: www.twitter.com/ursulinedallas children, want without added clutter. Calendar will be sent to the alumnae office for toFilter Stay Connected To share to “Happenings” Class Note, More Ways View and Calendar Events approval be publishedvia onathe Class You will be able to see all of the alumnae log in to the Alumnae Portal, click Group Page. Facebook: Ursuline Academy of Dallas Alumnae events atthe a glance using theCalendar Calendar tool. (left To view calendar, click Alumnae (left side of page) > click Add or Select orour grid views,groups choose Filtercategory >on Check side oflist page) > Date/Event How to Join a Chapter Group LinkedIn: Join two LinkedIn Edit a Class Note > enter text and/or filters, andnext see only the events that you the boxes to the types of events you Submit . Your Class Note photos Groups To join>aclick chapter, click on My • the Ursuline Academy of Dallas Alumnae group without added want to view on yourclutter. calendar (check the will sent to the >alumnae office for (left be side of page) Click Here to Join • the Ursuline Academy of Dallas Professional Women’s boxes for “My and “My View and FilterAlumnae” Calendar Events approval to be published on under the Class Groups (right side of page Community” to show your class and Network group Group Page. “Community”) > Join. To view group the calendar, click chapter events in theCalendar calendar).(left Twitter:side www.twitter.com/ursulinedallas of page) > Date/Event Filter > Check How to Join a Chapter Group the boxes next to the types of events you To join a chapter, click on My Groups want to view on your calendar (check the (left side of page) > Click Here to Join boxes for “My Alumnae” and “My Groups (right side of page under Community” to show your class and “Community”) > Join. chapter group events in the calendar).

Getting Started onpasswordthe Ursuline Alumnae Online Community can now log in to the new private, page” for the Ursuline Alumnae Online Community. It is a comprehensive one-page dashboard that highlights news, announcements, Alumnae Portal events, photos, downloads and links that are important The Alumnae Portal is the new “home to Ursuline alumnae. page” for the Ursuline Alumnae Online Community. is atocomprehensive How to LogItIn the Portal one-page dashboard that highlights Click LOGIN on the home pagephotos, of news, announcements, events, www.ursulinedallas.org In downloads and links that or areSign important from any other page on the site. to Ursuline alumnae.

protected community at www.ursulinedallas.org

to access news and information about events, The Ursuline Alumnae Online Community helps you stay connected with your alumnae sisters and the exciting things happening at Ursuline today. classmates, networking opportunities and more.

User Name: Your username is your Howyear, to Log In to the class first initial, and Portal maiden name with no spaces (i.e., Pam Smith Click LOGIN on the home pageJones of ’78 would have the username of 78psmith). www.ursulinedallas.org or Sign In

from any other on the password site. Password: Yourpage temporary is your five digit home zip code. You will User Name: Your username is your be asked set initial, a permanent password class year,tofirst and maiden name on your first login. with no spaces (i.e., Pam Smith Jones ’78 would the username 78psmith). If you have are both an alumnaofand a parent, your existing login will provide Password: Your temporary password is accessfive to both parentzip andcode. alumnae your digit home You will information. From the School Portal, be asked to set a permanent password Alumnae Portal in the “Portal click on your first login. Views” section (top of page) to view If you are both an alumna and a the Alumnae Portal. parent, your existing login will provide access to both parent and alumnae information. From the School Portal, click Alumnae Portal in the “Portal Views” section (top of page) to view the Alumnae Portal.

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

ursulinedallas.org ursulinedallas.org

Corral your friends and join us for an evening of great fun, fine food, and superb entertainment to support scholarships! All proceeds go to provide financial assistance to deserving students.

MARDI GRAS 2011

A Scholarship Roundup

Saturday, February 19, 2011 InterContinental Dallas Hotel Crystal Ballroom

Mardi Gras Honorary Chairs The Anne and Tom Wunderlick Family Chairs Jan Golden, Mary Menefee, Peggy Wisner Entertainment The Texas Troubadour Jerry Jeff Walker Live, Big Board, and Silent Auctions • Tuition/Gift Card Raffle • Pre-Party Games • Western Chic Attire

Reservations online at www.uamardigras.org or call 469-232-3964

Women helping women A global perspective

Ursuline Alumnae: Get Involved!

The Power of

Ursuline Society Members Jeanne Marie Aber ’33 Stephanie Brooks Angel ’72

Here are just a few ways you can get involved at Ursuline and stay in touch with the Academy and your classmates.

You

Anonymous Sherrye and Joe R. Bass Martha Blalack Brooks ’40 Pat Brown O’Brien ’52 and Neil O’Brien Louise Buhrer ’35 †

Alumnae Auxiliary: The Ursuline Alumnae Auxiliary Committee helps with events such as Homecoming, Easter Event, Senior Class celebrations, and Career Day throughout the year. If you want to get involved, but are hesitant about time commitments, the Auxiliary gives you complete flexibility. Homecoming Reunion Weekend: A great way to reconnect with the campus and catch up with old friends! We love having our alumnae and their families back on campus to experience the traditions and innovations of our beloved Ursuline. Easter Event: There is no hiding the fact that our annual Easter Egg Hunt is a great time for everyone in the family! Bring the kids out April 23, 2011 for an afternoon of fun and entertainment, and meet up with some old friends while you’re at it.

Esther Connelly † The Jerome J. Crane † and Rhea McCoy Crane † Charitable Remainder Trust

c h a r i t a b l e

g i f t

p l a n n i n g

Senior Class Celebrations: Support our seniors as they make their way toward becoming the newest members of our Alumnae Association at their 100 Days ‘til Graduation Breakfast and Senior Induction Mass.

“As alumnae, we all walked away

Cheron Curran Adams ’64 and Clint Adams

Young Alumnae: Cocktails at Christmas and Christmas in the Community are two ways our young alumnae get together for a mini-reunion each year. Whether they are out on the town, or helping at the food bank, our young alumnae always have a great time.

with an enriching experience

Angela Downes ’86

Memorial Mass: Celebrated in September, January, and May. Memorial Masses honor members of our Ursuline community who have passed. We are always in need of Eucharistic Ministers and other volunteers to help support our alumnae who have lost family members.

John P. Flavin

that prepared us so well for life.

Winifred Flood † Laura Genaro Tomaso ’42 and Louie Tomaso † Beatrice M. Haggerty † Susan Hayes Raffo ’74 and Robert Raffo Dolores Lee Iliya ’44 Lauren Michelle Johnson ’96

Angela Downes ’86

At the age of 36, Angela Downes already knew that she wanted to make a legacy gift to Ursuline. She discovered that she could make an affordable donation annually by taking out a $50,000 whole life insurance policy in 2003, establishing Ursuline Academy as the beneficiary.

I wanted to help sustain the

Melinda and Dr. John D. McConnell Flora Quinn Monroe † Bernita Prince Nance ’63 Catherine O’Connell Schulze ’32 †

What would you do if you were told that the future of Ursuline Academy of Dallas was in YOUR hands? From childhood we are taught that sharing is a good thing. We learn that there is great satisfaction in giving, especially when we are able to support those organizations and institutions that have brought

Josie and Ed Toogood

meaning to our own lives. Through a charitable planned gift, you can help ensure the financial viability of Ursuline Academy for generations to come. Regardless of age or income, there are a variety of ways for you to establish a planned gift to Ursuline to achieve your personal and charitable goals. Now more than ever, the

Sybil Emmett Tucker ’51 † Deceased members

Charitable Planned Gift Options Ways you can remember Ursuline: > > > > > > >

In your will A gift annuity Life insurance Real estate Individual retirement accounts Charitable gift trust Stock

For more information on these activities and other ways to get involved, contact the Ursuline Alumnae Office at alumnae@ ursulinedallas.org or call 469-232-3587.

Ursuline for future students.” future of the Ursuline mission depends on the generosity of those who make a financial commitment that stands the test of time. You can touch the life of a future student. You can help sustain Serviam as a force for good in our world. The power is in your hands.

Jennifer Staubach Gates ’84 and John Gates Patty Sullivan ’81

Reunions: Reunions are a great way to stay in touch with your classmates. Contact your class agent to help plan your celebration.

wonderful environment that is

Lorraine Lastelick ’51 Jane Ann Law ’73 †

Phonathon: Let those competitive spirits fly! Contact your class agent and let her know you’re interested in participating.

If you would like to learn more about ways to make a Planned Gift to Ursuline Academy of Dallas contact: Christy Frazer Director of Institutional Advancement 469-232-3584 cfrazer@ursulinedallas.org

Order all your favorite Ursuline memorabilia online Bear Necessities, the Ursuline Academy bookstore, offers a large variety of alumnae merchandise. You can find Ursuline t-shirts, sweatshirts, flip-flops, jewelry, and more! You can access Bear Necessities at www.ursulinedallas.org/store Alumnae receive a 15 percent discount on all online purchases. Just note "alum" in the comments section of the order form. Thank you for supporting Ursuline Academy and Bear Necessities online bookstore! Go Bears!

table of contents Cover Stor y

Published annually for Ursuline Academy of Dallas alumnae and the Ursuline community.

Ursuline Academy of Dallas 4900 Walnut Hill Lane Dallas, Texas 75229 www.ursulinedallas.org Alumnae Office Regina Fonts Morris ’82 Director 469-232-3586 rmorris@ursulinedallas.org

Julia Frasco ’05 Alumnae Associate 469-232-3587 jfrasco@ursulinedallas.org Advancement Christy Frazer Director, Institutional Advancement 469-232-3584 cfrazer@ursulinedallas.org

Mimi Bishop Director, Annual Giving 469-232-3595 mbishop@ursulinedallas.org Communications Valerie Oates Director 469-232-1806 voates@ursulinedallas.org Ursuline Academy of Dallas Sr. Margaret Ann Moser, O.S.U. ’56 President srmoser@ursulinedallas.org

Elizabeth C. Bourgeois Principal ebourgeois@ursulinedallas.org Ursuline Sisters of Dallas Sr. Lois Castillon, O.S.U. Prioress lcastillon@ursulinedallas.org 2010-2011 Ursuline Alumnae Board Aimee Baillargeon Griffiths ’90, President Lorilei Cardenas Cronin ’95, President Elect Sarah Johnston Polzer ’98, Vice President Marianne Chionglo ’00, Secretary Jenny Beesley ’03 Elaine Cochran ’01 Kelly Moore Cook ’85 Elizabeth Doczi ’04 Karen Meier Eubanks ’83 Kate Kilanowski ’98 Caytie Sarandis Langford ’98 Malorie Perry ’04 Karen Quadrini Powell ’86 Rita Allegro Strickler ’03 Angela Tristan ’99 Eileen Maher Weber ’84 Linda Thomas White ’81 Tracy Fulkerson Wilson ’81

In Uganda, the woman on the left shown farming is also the owner of a company that manufactures juices.

18 Women Helping Women: A Global Perspective

Anne Simmons-Benton ’74 shares inspirational stories about women and organizations whose spirit of Serviam focuses on other women around the world. Features

Ex-Officio

Sr. Margaret Ann Moser, O.S.U. ’56 Sr. Lois Castillon, O.S.U. Monica de la Cerda ’91 Fran Corrales Drone ’86

Contributing Photographers Deborah Kellogg, Brandon Thibodeaux, William Thompson

Susan Gordon Group Publisher James Ricks Publisher AMERICAN AIRLINES

PUBLISHING Designed by American Airlines Publishing Custom Media

Amy Robinson Editorial Director J.R. Arebalo Jr. Design Director

Sr. Lois Castillon, 10 O.S.U.: Living Our Mission

Sr. Lois brings a broad worldview to her new position as Director of Mission and Heritage at Ursuline Academy, promoting our mission and the legacy of St. Angela.

Global Education: 24 Creating New Paths to Learning

Ursuline students learn about the world through experiences that offer insights to global issues, cultures, religions, languages, literature, economics, politics, geography, and more.

Agnes Kasule ’01: 30 Empowering Children in Uganda

Agnes Kasule ’01 finds a purpose for her life’s journey by helping Ugandan children discover and reach their fullest potential through education.

KariAnne Harmon Account Director

2 3 4

From the Director Community Connections From the Alumnae Board President

6 8 12 14

Alumnae Mosaics On Campus From the Archives Alumnae Awards & Reunion Weekend

16 Professional Women’s Network 26 Faculty Profile 28 Ways of Giving 32 Career Day

34 Alumnae Achievements 35 In Memoriam 36 Photo Gallery

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

from the director

community connections

Supporting Scholarships for Tomorrow’s Leaders

Beyond T

Our Borders

he start of the year is a great time for new beginnings, and what better time to give LOGOS a new look? We’ve refreshed the design of the magazine throughout and added eight pages to bring you more stories. We hope you find the content of this issue especially engaging. Also notable is our new cover, highlighting not just one story but a theme that echoes throughout these pages. In 2007, Ursuline Sisters from around the world assembled in Brazil for the General Chapter meeting of the Roman Union. At that gathering, they adopted the call for all Ursuline sponsored schools to “go beyond their borders” as emissaries of reconciliation and hope for a world in need. As graduates of Ursuline Academy, we, too, are challenged to live by that call. The work of our alumnae in the U.S. and around the world reflects the interconnectedness of all peoples. By staying connected — to Ursuline, to each other, and to the needs of others — we all benefit. The cover story of this issue, by Anne Simmons-Benton ’74 (page 18) speaks to the empowerment of women in third-world countries. An article by Agnes Kasule ’01 (page 30) reminds us of what can be accomplished when social teachings call us to cross cultural

boundaries. Agnes’ compelling story underscores the impact of her own Ursuline education. Her decision to work as an educator to give back to Ugandan society brings her personal journey full circle. The feature on Mary Kelly ’83 (page 6) describes how her military and life experiences have influenced rewarding career choices. Jenny Leland ’01 (page 7) shares her journey to serve far beyond her American borders. Her work to help others also demonstrates the Serviam spirit in action. You have amazing stories, and we feel honored to provide vehicles to help share those experiences. Your use of the Ursuline website continues to grow, and it is gratifying to see how many of you have visited the Alumnae Facebook and LinkedIn pages online. Look us up; you’ll find your friends there. Reflecting on the past year, I marvel at the milestones! As a renewed campus strengthens the education of our students, the addition of new events and “remodeling” of others enhances the alumnae experience. We are always looking for new ways to stay in touch with our alums, and we are grateful to all who responded to our online alumnae opinion survey last summer. Visit the campus soon and feel the excitement of the students. Their pride in the school is contagious! I also hope to see you at one of our upcoming alumnae events. You will not only have a good time, you will rejuvenate your spirit by enjoying the sisterhood of Ursuline alumnae. With all my best,

Regina Fonts Morris ’82 Alumnae Director rmorris@ursulinedallas.org

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

The first annual Lunch With A View, a new speaker series sponsored by Ursuline Academy, raised more than $56,000 for student scholarships. Upwards of 475 supporters attended the event, held at The Belo Mansion on September 30. Immaculée Ilibagiza, survivor of the Rwandan genocide and author of the book, Left to Tell, was the keynote speaker. The 2011 Lunch With A View will feature Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor, Ph.D., author of the New York Times best seller My Stroke of Insight: A Brain Scientist’s Personal Journey. The event will be held at the Fairmont Hotel on September 29, 2011. Created as a fund-raising event for scholarships, the speaker series is also designed to bring members of the Dallas community together to hear from remarkable individuals, thought-leaders, and role models. “They will share their ideas, their experiences, and their views on important issues of the day,” said Christy Frazer, Director of Institutional Advancement, in her remarks at the luncheon. “These messages will inform our own views of the world, and inspire us as we move forward in life.”

For more information and tickets to the 2011 event, visit www.ursulinedallas.org/lunchwithaview.

Alumnae Survey 2010

We Are Listening

Thank you for speaking up! Of those who received Ursuline’s online alumnae survey last summer, more than 30 percent responded, sharing their views and comments on Academy alumnae activities. The survey results have been, and will continue to be, a valuable guide in creating new events and refining current activities to build more meaningful experiences for you.

AA few things we learned from those few things we learned fromrespondthose responding to the survey: ing to the survey: would be interested in attendwould be interested in ing an Ursuline all-alumnae attending an Ursuline allreunion weekend on campus.

71% 71%

alumnae reunion weekend on campus.

83% 83%

would like to see a quarterly would like to see a quarorterly monthly alumnae email or monthly alumnae

newsletter. email newsletter.

59% 59%

already connecting areare already connectthrough the ing through theUrsuline Ursuline A lumnae Facebook page. lumnae Facebook page. A

Highlights of what we are doing: > Homecoming has been moved to June 3-5, 2011, and redesigned with a reunion format. It’s the start of a new tradition! Mark your calendar, book your flight, bring the family, and join us for a festive fun-filled weekend. See page 14 for more details.

> This past fall we introduced a new alumnae online newsletter, Connects. We’ll continue to improve and expand Connects to bring you news about alumnae and school activities, events, and programs, as well as information about the arts and athletics. > On Facebook, you really “like” us! At the time of publication, there were more than 1,300 fans on the Ursuline Alumnae Facebook page. Visit www.facebook.com/ ursulinedallasalumnae and join us today for news and event updates. > You can keep up with other Ursuline Alumnae on a regular basis by logging in to www.ursulinedallas.org/alumnae. You’ll find alumnae news and announcements, a calendar of events, class pages, and Happenings posted throughout the year. Need help logging in? Contact Julia Frasco ’05 at jfrasco@ ursulinedallas.org For a full report of 2010 Alumnae Survey results log in to www.ursulinedallas.org/alumnae.

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

from the alumnae board president

New Directions A

s I write this, my esteemed classmates are planning our 20th reunion. (I can’t help but laugh to myself even as I type that — TWENTY years!) I know many of you have experienced the same amazement that time can go by so quickly. So much has changed since 1990, when cell phones were housed in an over-the-shoulder tote, most of us typed our term papers in a computer lab or on a word-processor typewriter, and we were likely to pick up the newest album on cassette so we could play it in the car right away. Somehow we all find ourselves keeping pace with the rapid advances of technology and communication over the years. We discover ways to become more effective and efficient. Could it be the solid foundation of Catholic faith and Ursuline education provided us the tools for adapting to this tremendous growth during our lifetime? There is a new timeline display in The French Family Center detailing Ursuline’s growth from 1874 to the present. Just steps away is the breathtaking stained glass window — a gift to the Academy from the Alumnae Association in 1899. That this precious history is lovingly housed in a building so technologically advanced is a wonderful example of what makes Ursuline so amazing. We cherish our history and tradition but have been given everything we need to move forward. I daresay the six Sisters that first brought Ursuline to Dallas would be proud of how far we have come! In this spirit, the Alumnae Office and Alumnae Board continue to move in new directions. We now have a Facebook page that provides timely updates on our activities. We also have the new Ursuline Online Community where you can find out what alumnae events are happening on campus, in the Dallas area, or at an Ursuline chapter in another city. In addition, we have recently launched the Ursuline Alumnae Auxiliary — a group that we hope to grow and develop further in the coming year. This group

allows alumnae to sign up for email updates regarding quick, easy volunteer opportunities supporting our alumnae sisters, the current students, and the school. All you have to do is send me an email and we will add you to this rapidly expanding crew! The progress the Alumnae Board has made to this point would not have been possible without the members that have given so generously of their time and efforts. Heartfelt thanks to those Board members who have completed their service: Mary Lou Baskins Beesley ’71, Crissy Cook ’00, Genevieve Rubensteen Dittmar ’80, Jennifer Houston ’95, and Gina Scalise Landry ’85. Meanwhile, our returning Board members are preparing to welcome six new alumnae who will join us: Elizabeth Doczi ’04, Caytie Sarandis Langford ’98, Karen Quadrini Powell ’86, Rita Allegro Strickler ’03, Linda Thomas White ’81, and Tracy Fulkerson Wilson ’81. New and exciting changes are always just around the corner, yet we look to our history to inspire our future. Perhaps St. Angela Merici said it best: “Do something, get moving, be confident, risk new things, stick with it, then be ready for big surprises!” Fondly,

Aimee Baillargeon Griffiths ’90 aimee.griffiths@tx.rr.com

At right, Alumnae Board members in the David M. Crowley Atrium of The French Family Center

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

Top Row l to r: Monica de la Cerda ’91 (ex-officio), Tracy Fulkerson Wilson ’81, Karen Quadrini Powell ’86, Fran Corrales-Drone ’86 (ex-officio); Second Row l to r: Linda Thomas White ’81, Julia Frasco ’05 (Alumnae Associate), Malorie Perry ’04; Third Row l to r: Eileen Maher Weber ’84, Lorilei Cardenas Cronin ’95, Kate Kilanowski ’98; Front Row l to r: Caytie Sarandis Langford ’98, Regina Fonts Morris ’82 (Alumnae Director), Aimee Baillargeon Griffiths ’90, Angela Tristan ’99; Not Pictured: Jenny Beesley ’03, Sr. Lois Castillon, O.S.U. (ex-officio), Marianne Chionglo ’00, Elaine Cochran ’01, Kelly Moore Cook ’85, Elizabeth Doczi ’04, Karen Meier Eubanks ’83, Sr. Margaret Ann Moser, O.S.U. ’56 (ex-officio), Sarah Johnston Polzer ’98, Rita Allegro Strickler ’03

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

alumnae mosaics je

kell

A Call to Action y

mar

methods engaging and vibrant regardless of the subject matter. “Henry Kissinger speaks so brilliantly that you hang on every word. I don’t have that brilliance so I have to be entertaining,” she jokes. In January 2010, Mary applied her vast knowledge of human resources and economics with her tried and true approach to problem-solving to establish her own consulting company, Productive Leaders. As a think beyond short-term consequences and leadership expert, she works with compalook very long term.” Along the way, she denies across the U.S. that want to strengthen veloped considerable expertise in strategic leadership development and improve proplanning, organization management, and ductivity skills. She operates her business communications. on a model that accommodates 30 percent “You develop a perspective that considpro-bono work. ers as many factors as possible…you have Mary has also developed a “crash course” to understand the strategic called Take the Lead, Orobjectives and then impleganize Your Life to help ment the tactics necessary to people prepare for major To learn more get there,” she says. “I credit life crises. Her speaking about Mary Kelly, the military for my strength approach combines her Productive Leaders and putting me into ‘plan of knowledge and experience or her speaker action’ mode when dealing with wit and charm to disseries, visit: with crises and hard situacuss sensitive topics such as www.ursulinedallas.org/ tions in life.” preparing wills and trusts. marykelly Over her career, Mary has “People crave good infortaught at five different unimation that will help them versities, which gave her the today with their life.” opportunity to develop curricula and to obWhen Mary takes a break from work and tain her advanced degrees. In addition to a teaching, she finds time to “pay it forward” B.S. in history from the Naval Academy, she with her philanthropic causes. That inhas completed master’s degrees in history cludes volunteering at nursing homes with and economics, and holds Ph.D. degrees in her certified therapy dogs and visits with the both economics and political science. residents. As an educator, Mary has created 31 uni“It doesn’t matter where you are, you are versity courses in disciplines ranging from always two steps in front of someone else,” history to human resources. She is beloved Mary says, “and you have to reach back and by her students, who find her teaching get them up.”

lela n

'0 1

According to Mary Kelly ’83, Retired Commander, USN, “A minute is a long time, and you have to learn not to waste it.” After 20 years in the Navy, Mary has learned that every second counts. She lives this philosophy with a busy career as a professor, a naval commander, a leadership expert, a dynamic public speaker, and a philanthropist. Immediately following her graduation from the United States Naval Academy in 1987, recognizing her potential, the Navy put Mary in charge of teams overseas. During her 20 years of active duty she worked primarily with intelligence and logistics operations. She has trained more than 10,000 military personnel and led multicultural teams in 11 countries. These experiences helped her “learn to

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

Serving South Africa Friends of Jenny Leland ’01 might describe her as an adventurous spirit, insatiably curious about the world, and someone who cares deeply about helping others.

“I am passionate about undertaking work that aligns closely with who I am as a person,” Jenny says. “I think it’s easy to become cynical about the condition of the world, and the enormity of poverty and violence.” After finishing her undergraduate work at American University School of International Service and acquiring her master’s degree at Graduate Institute of International Development Studies in Geneva, Switzerland, Jenny set her sights on serving far beyond her American borders. In April 2010, she bought a one-way ticket to South Africa, hoping an intern assignment there would turn into a full-time position. “My underlying desire is to do whatever is in my power to lessen suffering,” Jenny explains, “so I decided to go to South Africa.” Now she works as a Project Analyst in the Tunis, Tunisia, office of Coxswain Social Investment Plus, a Danish

international consulting company. Jenny primarily works with the United Nations World Health Organization, the African Development Bank, various African governments and multinational companies in order to maximize the impact of investment in the economies and societies of developing countries. Of the many projects she has worked on to date, she recalls as one of her favorites, “Football for an HIV-Free Generation,” a continent-wide HIV prevention initiative that uses soccer programs to promote healthy living and responsible choices among African youth. “I frequently come back to the adage, ‘To whom much has been given, much is expected,’’’ Jenny adds. “I’m thrilled to have a job with excellent colleagues as teachers and much international exposure; one that increases my knowledge of what exactly it is that various organizations, companies, and I as an individual can do to better the condition of the world.”

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

on campus

More than 1,200 people took part in the formal Dedication Ceremonies for The French Family Science, Math, and Technology ÂCenter on May 7, 2010. Visit www.uafuture.org to view a video of the keynote address delivered by Melinda French Gates '82.

1. Keynote speaker Melinda French Gates '82. Other program participants (back l-r): Natalie Reimer '10, Student Body President; Bishop Kevin J. Farrell, D.D.; Susan Flume Bauer '64; and Dallas Mayor Tom Leppert. ter, right) with student ambassadors. 5. The Jesuit Rangerettes. 6. Bishop Kevin J. Farrell, D.D. and Sr. Lois Castillon, O.S.U., Prioress 7. Genevieve Rubensteen Dittmar '80 (l), Elizabeth Bourgeois, Principal (c), and

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

2. Elaine and Ray French (front), seated onstage, with Steven French (l-back) and Raymond J. French (r-back) 3. A day of celebration for all! 4. Susan French Burkhardsmeier '81 (center, left) and Elaine French (cenSharon Pedevilla (r), outside the Heritage Gallery. 8. The Color Guard's closing performance. 9. Sr. Margaret Ann Moser, O.S.U. 10. Melinda French Gates '82 with students.

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

about the sisters

Living Our Mission Sr. Lois Castillon, O.S.U.

“Angela Merici’s vision for women in her time was vivacious. Here we are 475 years later—alive with her spirit of hope and service among the people of God.” — Sr. Lois Castillon, O.S.U.

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ollowing the call of the Ursuline Sisters to go “beyond our borders” comes naturally to Sr. Lois Castillon. During her 14 years as Executive Director of North American Ursuline Educational Services, she traveled around the world to Taiwan, Austria, England, France, Italy, Mexico, Brazil, Canada, and South Africa to lead workshops and conferences on the legacy of St. Angela Merici. This past fall, Sr. Lois took over the position of Director of Mission and Heritage at Ursuline Academy bringing her broad worldview to the work of promoting the mission of the school and the heritage of St. Angela. “As we celebrate our 475 th anniversary, I love the ways the Ursuline Sisters around the world make Angela’s vision come alive with a collaboration, reverence for all of God’s creation, and a Christ-centered theology,” reflects Sr. Lois. “For me, fostering an understanding of the Ursuline legacy is at the heart of who we are,” says Sr. Lois. “I hope to help integrate our values of Serviam, spirituality, and commitment to care for the Earth in the life of the students, faculty, and the entire Ursuline Academy family.” A native of St. Louis, Sr. Lois has worked in schools in Illinois, New Orleans, California, and Missouri. She has served on the Board of Trustees of the Ursuline Academy Foundation from its inception, and has been the Prioress of the Dallas Ursuline Community since 2008. Sr. Lois is known throughout the school as a joyful, energetic woman of God. “She is so positive and encouraging,” remarks Monica de la Cerda ’91, Dean of Students. “She not only embraces our school’s mis-

sion — she lives it, and she has really connected with students in the short time she’s been here.” Helping students and co-workers get to know St. Angela is central to Sr. Lois’ work. “I want them to know Angela Merici and realize that she can be a person they can turn to in their lives,” she says. The new St. Angela Chapel (see sidebar) in The French Family Science, Math, and Technology Center provides a special venue for Sr. Lois’ work with students, co-workers, and alumnae. She looks forward to bringing theology classes to the chapel for prayer and reflection. “The students are so eager and open to life,” she continues. “That’s when my work comes alive for me.” Sr. Lois also looks forward to helping students find ways to build community with their classmates and to live Serviam. She plans to work closely with the Campus Minister and student Peer Ministers to make liturgies and retreat days special for students. In the summer of 2010, Sr. Lois led a group of students and faculty on a trip to the Ursuline Center in Great Falls, Montana. “We experienced the legacy of the mid-nineteenth century pioneer Ursulines as they founded missions for Native Americans and settlers,” she says of the trip. “These experiences, including attending a Native American liturgy, made this legacy come alive for us.” After calling St. Louis home for 25 years, Sr. Lois is once again leaving her comfort zone by relocating to Dallas. “I’ve done many things in my life that took me outside of my borders,” Sr. Lois says, “but I am excited about beginning this new chapter in my life.”

“An Instrument of Peace” The new St. Angela Merici Chapel gives students, faculty, and staff a place for reflection, private prayer, and small group services. Located on the second floor of The French Family Center, the chapel’s embracing space is filled with warm, natural colors and unique details created by Dallas-area artisans. Two curved rows of solid white maple benches line the walls of the oblong space so that worshipers face one another, in keeping with the tradition of choral prayer offered by the Ursuline Sisters. A dramatic focal point, the San Damiano cross painted by Dallas artist Nancy Rebal is modeled after the 13th-century original that stands in a chapel in Assisi, Italy. St. Angela was a member of the Third Order of St. Francis, a lay society that finds meaning and purpose in following the way of St. Francis. This crucifix follows the design of the original with one difference — among the saints and angels surrounding Christ, St. Angela is included in the lower right corner. The Blessed Sacrament Chapel to one side of the main chapel is intended for quiet prayer. St. Francis’ prayer for peace is stenciled on the wall and a skylight above the tabernacle draws attention to God’s presence. To learn more about the Chapel’s special features and contributing artists, visit www.ursulinedallas.org/angelachapel.

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

from the archives

Not Your Grandmother’s Attic The Ursuline Archives By Sybil Emmett Tucker ’51

he Ursuline Academy of Dallas Archives spills out of two rooms in St. Ursula Hall, and if it were a “she,” it would be a “she with an attitude” — in motion, on display, and creatively evolving. Building on the 60-plus boxes of finely identified firstsource materials compiled by Sr. Mary Margaret Prenger, O.S.U. during her years as Ursuline Sisters’ Archivist, recent additions have tripled the content. We are actively seeking

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

additions to all our collections, as well as dramatically expanding oral history participations. A touching gift from Wayne Melton, husband of Jean Schaffnit-Melton ’39, is a library table they purchased from Old Ursuline when that campus closed in 1949. It is a very large, thick, and heavy wooden piece with square grand piano legs. Jean recalled spending many hours studying at that table. They subsequently refinished it and used it as their family dining table for many years. After Jean’s death in 2010, Mr. Melton and the family felt that Jean would have wanted Ursuline to have it again. We have accepted it with love and gratitude, and, knowing Jean well, we have an indelible picture in our mind of her sitting there studying away as she must have in 1939. We cherish, honor, and respect all gifts given to the Archives. As a volunteer, Joyce Meyer ’70 did a heroic job of organizing, cataloguing, and melding the Alumnae Archives into the primary collection. Cheri Burnish ingeniously displayed exhibits including climbing to the top of the ladder to reach those distant shelves in the Heritage Gallery. Sr. Peggy Hill, O.S.U. ’53 added her insight and artistic touch to special displays featuring the Ursuline Sisters. Freshman Ashley Dyslin researched all the statues on campus and discovered that the oldest statue is that of Our Lady of Lourdes, sent from France in 1883. It was originally sited in the Grotto in the “old school.” Yet there are still hundreds of pictures to be identified, collections to be catalogued, backdrops and designs to be created for our gallery displays, plus the ever present need for filing, laminating, copying, and taking inventory…all awaiting your volunteer touch. The Haggar Family Heritage Gallery in The French Family Science, Math, and Technology Center provides a cozy enclave nestled in a high-traffic area of the new building to showcase and “strut our stuff.” There are ten cabinets for viewing these treasures. Rotating exhibits and vignettes are used to present the “old” in new ways. You will just have to come and see! Last year’s graduation exhibit featured graduation dresses from 1912 to present-day on 20 model forms. Also displayed were graduation invitations, rings, gold medals, and four stunning 40-by-80 inch graduation photos. We know you will share the delight and pride of the hundreds of students, alumnae, teachers, parents, and visitors to date who have viewed the look and feel of Ursuline’s days gone by. Another very special new display starts at the south entrance to The French Family Center and travels the west wall adjacent to the Heritage Gallery. Tradition + Innovation: An Ursuline Timeline, draws you irresistibly into the story of Ursuline Academy of Dallas. You cannot pass by without becoming fully engaged in the content, photos, and graphics. Beginning with the founding of the Order of St. Ursula by St. Angela Merici in 1535, this absorbing journey walks you through the succeeding five centuries before ending with

We are actively seeking additions to all our collections, as well as dramatically expanding oral history participations. the dedication of The French Family Center in May 2010. To describe it further would not prepare you for the “WOW” effect of seeing it in person. But wait, there’s more! An extra panel space at the end awaits the future, history yet to be written. Then, turn the corner and experience the awesome Stained Glass Window of the Five Wise Virgins made in 1899, gifted to the Academy by the newly founded Alumnae Association on the occasion of the school’s 25th jubilee. Resurrected from thousands of pieces and fully restored through the artistry of Stanton Glass Studio, the window is a long-awaited vision to behold. Backlit, its beauty is evident day or night. The design, craftsmanship, and journey of this window add a layer of insight into this Gospel parable as it speaks to your spirit. In this triangle of historic spaces in the new French Family Center — featuring our new Heritage Gallery, the Ursuline Timeline, and the lovingly restored Stained Glass Window — a visitor finds it impossible to escape the impact of Ursuline Academy of Dallas through the years. Here truly, the past is a prologue to the future.

To volunteer or donate, please contact Sybil Tucker at 214-389-2671 or stucker@ ursulinedallas.org

To view a video of the restoration and history of the Old Ursuline Stained Glass Window, visit www.uafuture.org/window.

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To b si y t rea tw h d w e 2 rem w 0 a .u 10 r rs A ks ul lu m in m a ed n de al ae a la A t s.o w Ho a m Innovation honored tradition last January as more than 300 alumnae and their families rg/al rd re eco um c m ae ipie ing gathered in the state-of-the-art French Family Science, Math, and Technology Center and aw nt ar s ds newly renovated halls familiar to all. Homecoming festivities included the blessing of the . vi

alumnae awards & reunion weekend

Alumnae Awards 2010

Alumnae Come Home to Transformed Campus

day. Bring your children and your friends for games, live music, and great food. Bring your classmates and have your reunion class photo taken.

Distinguished Alumna

Theresa Ackels Kemp ’77, “The Habitat Lady”

n the seven years since Theresa Ackels Kemp joined Habitat for Humanity, the Greene County Georgia chapter has built 19 houses and started construction on a $1.3 million Habitat for Humanity Village. Known in her community as “The Habitat Lady,” residents stop her on the street to share with her the impact she has made on their lives. Theresa’s chapter took the Habitat model to a new level, installing home computers with software that is updated as the children in the home grow. They develop an education plan for each child and provide them with scholarships and laptops. “It’s more than putting a roof over the families’ heads. We are building homes and changing lives…changing the course of history for the children.” Locally, Theresa has also served on the Alumni Board of the University of Dallas, the Finance Council for St. Monica Catholic Church, and worked with Children’s Medical Center of Dallas as well as the Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center. Speaking of the alumnae at the Homecoming ceremony, Theresa says, “This award could go to any one of these women. Ursuline taught us all to be distinguished, to be independent (l-r) Miriam Ackels Claerhout '83, Mary Emma Ackels Karam '72, thinkers, and to be doers.” Theresa Ackels Kemp '77, Cecilia Ackels Martin '84

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r ecently restored Stained Glass Window (see “Not Your Grandmother’s Attic” on page 12) and recognition of honored alumnae Theresa Ackels Kemp ’77 and Peggy Haden Nolan ’71.

June 3-5, 2011 A New Homecoming Friday, June 3 Girls Night Out Cocktail Reception Start the weekend with an alumnae cocktail reception while browsing the new and remodeled halls of our beautiful campus. Learn more about Ursuline’s traditions and history from the Timeline and Heritage Gallery in the new French Family Center. Take a campus tour. Bring your yearbooks and reminisce about your days in plaid skirts and saddle shoes! Saturday, June 4 Picnic on the Lawn Family activities for all ages are planned on campus during the

Alumnae Leadership Scholarship Recipients

Classic Class Reunions In the evenings, classes will hold their traditional class reunions offcampus. Contact your class agents to get involved. Sunday, June 5 Alumnae Mass Celebrate a special Alumnae Mass with your family remembering our deceased alumnae and honoring our Alumnae Award recipients. A luncheon reception will immediately follow the Mass. If you are an alumna with a relative who is a current student at Ursuline, please join us before Mass for “Legacy Photos.” To learn more and to register, visit www.ursulinedallas.org/ reunion.

Catherine Buskmiller ’13 Bailey Vertin ’13 Jennifer Klein ’12

The Alumnae Association also recognized the following current students, relatives of Ursuline Academy of Dallas graduates, who have demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities:

Madeleine Sladek ’12 Jessica Valenzuela ’12 Alexa Ferguson ’11 Kelsey Hyman ’11

Serviam Alumna

Peggy Haden Nolan ’71, Volunteer Extraordinaire

“S

erviam is more than a word at Ursuline. It’s the culture; it’s a lifestyle,” reflects Peggy Haden Nolan, recipient of the Serviam Alumna Award. Peggy has also been named “Volunteer Coordinator of the Year” by the Volunteer Center of Dallas County and has received the Governor’s Award for “Volunteer Manager of the Year.” Her work is concentrated in the areas of education and special needs. “Ursuline taught me that I could do anything I put my mind to,” Peggy says. “I’ve been fortunate to be able to personally and professionally make Serviam a part of my life. Through these opportunities I’ve been able to work with others to improve the lives of children and adults in our community and to nurture other volunteers.” Peggy has served as the Vice President of Funding for the Junior League of Richardson, Co-Chair of “Affair of the Heart” benefiting the Notre Dame School of Dallas, and has volunteered in many capacities for Ursuline Academy, Special Olympics, and Catholic Charities. “I have also learned to be on the receiving end of Serviam. I will always be grateful to our Ursuline family for being (l-r) Ann Haden Letteer '76, Peggy Haden Nolan '71, Katy Haden there when we needed them most.” Einspanier '77

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professional women's network

Erin Fenske (l), BA, MBA, is the Clinical Research Manager, Lung Cancer Disease Oriented Team at the Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. Ms. Fenske is an active member of PWN, a group of alumnae and friends of Ursuline who support the internship program and provide opportunities for professional networking. Jennifer Boone '11 (r) is an Ursuline senior, a member of the swim team, and is considering a career in medicine.

What do you expect to gain by mentoring an intern? EF: For me, it is an opportunity to teach. It is also an opportunity to present a completely different side of medicine, which is clinical research. Many students interested in health-related fields go to college expecting to go on to medical school and end up physicians. I did, and when I attended my undergraduate orientation, I was interested in biology, but I was pushed away from a major in science as we were told that the only options were lab research, teaching, or medical school. Thankfully, I did not listen, and quickly discovered, after completing my bachelor’s degree (and not going on to medical school), the world of clinical research. I love being able to present both sides of the story. Through our summer internships, students are able to shadow our physicians in their regular clinic setting. They also get the opportunity to explore other potential careers in clinical research by shadowing our coordinators and research nurses in clinical oncology trials.

Mentoring Young Minds Many Ursuline students confidently and specifically cite the profession they plan to pursue. The Ursuline Summer Internship Program gives them an opportunity to explore a career field to find out if their expectations match the reality of the job. For an undecided student who just wants to “try on” a field of interest, an internship provides a personal growth experience that can also better inform her decisions about college selection and future study. Participating students spend at least 60 hours in their placements. They prepare by attending IMPACT3 workshops (Impressions, Interviewing, and Interaction) sponsored by the Ursuline Professional Women’s Network (PWN). They also keep a daily journal and must be evaluated at the end of the internship placement. LOGOS asked UT Southwestern medical research 2010 intern Jennifer Boone ’11 and her mentor Erin Fenske to share their views.

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What do your summer interns do? Erin Fenske: Students who participate in the internship program with our team shadow the Lung Cancer Disease Oriented Team (DOT). The Lung DOT operates out of the Clinical Research Office in the Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center at UT Southwestern Medical Center. It is a time to shadow physicians who are seeing lung cancer patients, as well as our clinical research coordinators and nurses through their activities associated with enrolling and treating patients on clinical research trials. What do you expect to get out of the internship? Jennifer Boone: I am expecting to get an understanding of the responsibility and precision involved in the profession of research. Also, since I have dreamed of going into the medical field since I was little, this great opportunity will give me a chance to see whether or not I am still interested in the job.

Have there been any surprises for either of you? JB: After just one day of interning I was already surprised at how much detail surrounded each study — 100-plus pages of fine print dictates everything that can and cannot be done with the patient. It takes incredible concentration and attention to make sure everything is done correctly! EF: So far, having interns for the last two summers has been a pleasant surprise. Not only are the students smart, they are well prepared for the workplace and easily adjust to what can be a very intimidating environment for even the most seasoned professional. What’s the best thing about this kind of mentor/ intern arrangement? JB: The best thing is that I not only get to learn about oncological research, but also the actual treatment of cancer. Since there are so many people involved in the studies, I have the opportunity to see a lot of the different jobs involved. This arrangement allows a wide range of learning experiences. EF: I get to teach and watch someone’s enthusiasm grow for an industry I am passionate about. Even if the student leaves realizing that this path is not for her, I can rest assured that she has learned something and hopefully enjoyed her experience along the way.

What are you most looking forward to doing during the internship? JB: I most look forward to shadowing the physicians in the clinic, so I can see the interaction between the patients and doctors. I already spent some time following around a doctor, and I can’t wait for more time in the clinic!

Ursuline Professional Women's Network The Professional Women's Network (PWN) is a networking organization for Ursuline alumnae, mothers of current students or alumnae, and friends. PWN provides leadership and career mentoring opportunities for Ursuline students and a forum for professional women to interact with one another.

PWN offers events with engaging speakers and opportunities to participate in the Ursuline community such as the annual Student Internship Program and Impact3 Workshop, a series of presentations designed to prepare student interns for the professional atmosphere of the workplace.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or just out of college, Ursuline's PWN offers a win-win relationship for its members and the Academy.

For more information or to become a member, visit www.ursulinedallas.org/pwn.

Arlene Scott Mousavi '85, Michelle Morgan '88, and Jo Carol Mason (UA Staff) attend a PWN reception and program featuring a speaker from UT Southwestern Medical Center.

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helping women

women

G l o b a l

P e r sp e ct i v e

•

B y

A nn e

S i mmons - B e nton

' 7 4

I would like to introduce you to a small sampling of the women and organizations that inspire me daily. Their spirit of Serviam focuses on other women, and is played out around the world. There are countless opportunities for Ursuline girls and alumnae to become involved in these efforts worldwide, as well as closer to home.

My story — and how I met these women

A Rwandan woman with an infant tied to her back and her toddler at her side sells her woven baskets by the side of the road to the few cars that drive by.

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

I have been very blessed to have had a great education at Ursuline and many women have inspired me there. In addition to the superior academic preparation, there were the underlying teachings of Serviam, equality, innovation, and justice — doing what’s right. I count many classmates as well as teachers among that number and continue to find other women in my work who inspire me. I was lucky to be able to continue my educational pursuits with an international affairs degree at Georgetown School of Foreign Service and then law school. This, and my work background, prepared me for an incredible opportunity over the last three years to support the economic empowerment of women in developing countries. In 2008, I approached the U.S. Agency

for International Development (USAID) with an idea to create a diagnostic tool that would analyze impediments and design solutions for women to start and grow a business. USAID provided funding to create the tool, pilot it in two countries (Rwanda and Vietnam) and then to provide followup assistance. For the pilot programs, I assembled a team composed of a federal judge, a banker, lawyers, and a businesswoman and gender expert. In September 2010, I conducted workshops in four cities in Rwanda to teach women how to be successful entrepreneurs. Why Rwanda? Rwanda presents a unique opportunity to work with women due to the history of the genocide, the number of women in leadership (the highest in the world — 56 percent of Parliamentarians are women), and its continuing and unique

stability in Africa. Why is this important? In many countries, women have constraints that men don’t face. These vary from country to country and include an inability to own title to any property (land, cars, and intangible property), to sign a contract, to apply for a job, to travel alone, or to make decisions. At the same time women are burdened with the primary responsibility for raising children and caring for the elderly; gathering firewood for light, heating, and cooking; and collecting water for bathing and cooking. The amount of water and firewood that they collect is based on their ability to carry, either in a basket on their head or in their arms. In Rwanda, women spend a large portion of the day climbing the “Land of a Thousand Hills” in search of water and firewood for their families and carrying it home.

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If Rwanda, with its high proportion of women leaders, can continue to succeed as a stable country with increasing economic growth and the economic empowerment of women, then it can be a beacon for the rest of Africa and other countries. What about the men? Economic empowerment of women is not about the exclusion of men. Studies have shown that every extra dollar invested in women results in investment in the health, nutrition, and education of their children. Men need to be engaged to ensure that they understand why girls and boys need to be educated and why allowing everyone to contribute to society, regardless of gender, is important. The diagnostic tool, called GenderCLIR*, has been used in Vietnam, Rwanda, and the West Bank to analyze impediments to women in business, and has been adapted to agriculture and used in Uganda and Tanzania, since most of the developing world’s farmers are women. I have met a number of amazing women who are working to help women around the world. Ursuline graduates Melinda French Gates ’82 and Dina Habib Powell ’91 are two who have contributed immensely to this effort. Here, I’d like to highlight the work of several other outstanding women and organizations making life better for women worldwide.

The Khalandia Camp in West Bank, where women who are displaced from their homes due to the conflict learn different skills such as embroidery, sewing, and design of clothing and household goods.

A Vietnamese woman sells poultry and eggs at the market.

Shirley Randell

Susanne E. Jalbert, Ph.D. Dr. Susanne E. Jalbert has been working to develop local business and entrepreneurship among enterprising Iraqis, most particularly women. She is a member of the “braintrust” of women who have helped to develop GenderCLIR. An economic activist for 25 years, Susanne Jalbert’s overarching goal is investing resources equitably in both social and business change through economic empowerment. Her true passion lies in development and helping local people develop their own business practices. Dr. Jalbert contributes to USAID-sponsored private sector development projects and has assisted more than 30 international contractors on 87 assignments in 45 countries including Nepal, Thailand, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Russia, Ukraine, Georgia, Moldova, and most recently Iraq. Recognized as an architect and champion of the Iraqi Small Business Development Centers program (www. sbdc-iraq.com), Susanne Jalbert has influenced nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and women’s business association capacity-building worldwide. She publishes and speaks frequently on the role of business associations, women entrepreneurs, the trafficking of women and children, and entrepreneurial expansion programs.

Rwanda and Vietnam to pilot the new methodology on analyzing women’s economic empowerment. “What Womenable is all about is helping to build the roads and bridges of support,” she explains. “Empowering women’s enterprise development must be a blend of the quantitative and the qualitative, of fostering a genderaware enterprise policy, and taking women business owners seriously by listening to their challenges and celebrating their successes.” With the rare ability to translate data and complex information into clear, concise, and actionable knowledge, Julie Weeks has been personally responsible for much of the extant information on the state of women business owners and their enterprises in the United States. Additionally, she has led, coordinated, or consulted on research projects focused on women business owners and their enterprises in more than a dozen other countries.

Women in East Africa carrying their wares to market.

There is a poem by Emily Dickinson she has carried with her for more than 20 years. If I can ease one life the aching, or cool one pain, or help one fainting robin unto his nest again, I shall not live in vain. “And while I grandiosely think I am making changes worldwide or nationwide or community wide,” says Susanne, “the poem reminds me to step back and always remember the individual.”

Julie Weeks Julie Weeks is president and CEO of Womenable, a research, program, and policy development consultancy enabling women’s entrepreneurship worldwide (www.women able.com). One of the world’s leading experts in the field of women’s entrepreneurship, she has experience in both the private and public sectors in the areas of research, public policy, and program management. Also a member of the “braintrust,” Julie helped to work on the GenderCLIR indicators and traveled with me to

Professor Shirley Randell was born in Perth, Australia. She started teaching Aboriginal children in isolated schools in Western Australia prior to beginning a 15-year career in the Commonwealth Public Service and then a life dedicated to gender and human rights for women. A leading expert in public sector and institutional reform in developing countries and in gender mainstreaming and human rights for women, Shirley has provided technical assistance to governments in the Asia Pacific Region and in Africa over the last 15 years. “Men generally have no shortage of mentors,” she says, “but in my opinion it is especially important to recognize young women with potential to be managers and directors, given the inequalities still existing in management and board representation in every country.” Shirley has been very involved in the International Federation of University Women in a number of leadership roles, and founded both the Vanuatu and Rwandan branches. She is now in the process of building the new Centre for Gender, Culture and Development Studies at the Kigali Institute of Education, (www.kie.ac.rw) very appropriately situated in Rwanda.

Melanne Verveer Melanne Verveer is Ambassador-at-Large at the U.S. Department of State for Global Women’s Issues, appointed to that new position by President Barack Obama. The President’s decision to create such a position is unprecedented. Ambassador Verveer coordinates foreign policy issues and

*To read the USAID report, Rwanda: Investing in the Empowerment of Women in Business, visit http://bizclir.com/galleries/country-assessments/Rwanda_GenderCLIR.pdf

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

Women in a Vietnamese marketplace. The lack of available jobs in rural areas often leads to trafficking in women. Economic empowerment means having a job so women can stay at home and not be sold.

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Women for Women www.womenforwomen.org Since its creation, Women for Women International has empowered more than 250,000 women survivors of war to move toward economic self-sufficiency with a year-long program of direct aid, rights education, job skills training, and small business development. As a result of war and conflict, women and girls often lose everything that ever mattered to them, including their sense of self. Participation in this one-year program launches women on a journey from victim to survivor to active citizen. Since 1993, Women for Women International has mobilized more than 125,000 women and men in 105 countries worldwide to reach out and support women survivors of war — one woman at a time. Women for Women identifies services to support graduates of the program as they continue to strive for greater social, economic, and political participation in their communities.

activities relating to the political, economic, and social advancement of women around the world. Melanne Verveer mobilizes concrete support for women’s rights and political and economic empowerment. Her key initiatives and programs are designed to increase women’s and girls’ access to education and health care, combat vio-

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” –Margaret Mead

lence against women and girls in all its forms, and ensure that women’s rights are fully integrated with human rights in the development of U.S. foreign policy. Ambassador Verveer most recently served as Chair and Co-CEO of Vital Voices Global Partnership, an international nonprofit she co-founded. During the Clinton administration, she led the effort to establish the President’s Interagency Council on Women. Prior to her time in the White House, Ambassador Verveer served in leadership roles with various public policy groups and as Coordinator for Civil Rights and Urban Affairs for the U.S. Catholic Conference. She is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations, Women’s Foreign Policy Group, and numerous other organizations.

Organizations Institute for Economic Empowerment of Women (IEEW) www.ieew.org The Institute for Economic Empowerment of Women, led by Dr. Terry Neese, accomplishes its mission through domestic and international training for women business owners in the area of public policy and entrepreneurial education. One IEEW program, Peace Though Business, empowers women entrepreneurs in developing countries to achieve their dream of financial independence and community involvement. Since its creation in 2007, the program has trained more than 150 women entrepreneurs in Afghanistan and Rwanda. While the Institute is located in Oklahoma, much of the training goes on at Northwood University in Dallas, offering opportunities to get involved in the Dallas area.

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

Anne Simmons-Benton ’74 (center, in white dress) at a meeting with the Business Association of An Giang, a rural city outside of Can Tho, Vietnam.

Women Thrive Worldwide www.womenthriveworldwide.com Women Thrive Worldwide develops, shapes, and advocates policies that foster economic opportunity for women living in poverty. The organization focuses on encouraging U.S. international assistance and trade programs to prioritize women. It brings together a diverse coalition of more than 50 organizations and 40,000 individuals united in the belief that women are the key to ending global poverty, and empowering them is not only right, it’s also the most effective longterm solution to world poverty.

What You Can Do Vital Voices Global Partnership www.vitalvoices.org The nonprofit Vital Voices Global Partnership grew out of the U.S. Government’s successful Vital Voices Democracy Initiative, established in 1997 by Hillary Rodham Clinton and Madeleine Albright. Following the United Nations Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing, the initiative was designed to promote the advancement of women as a U.S. foreign policy goal. In partnership with the Inter-American Development Bank, the United Nations, the World Bank, the Nordic Council of Ministers, the European Union and other governments, the U.S. Government coordinated Vital Voices conferences throughout the world, bringing together thousands of emerging women leaders from more than 80 countries. These conferences launched regional Vital Voices initiatives that continue to give women the skills and resources

they need to lift themselves, their communities, and their countries. The overwhelmingly positive response to these efforts led to the creation of Vital Voices Global Partnership as a nonprofit non-governmental organization (NGO) in June 2000. From working to increase women’s political participation in Latin America to promoting women’s entrepreneurship in the Middle East, Vital Voices is advancing the economic, political and social status of women around the world, providing skills, networking, and other essential support. In March 2010, Melinda French Gates ’82 received one of the Vital Voices Global Leadership Awards called the Global Trailblazer Award. This organization has been very supportive of the GenderCLIR work and has a number of Ursuline supporters, including Dina Habib Powell ’91, Julie Lenzer Kirk ’84, and Amy Little Thomas ’91, either serving on the board or giving pro-bono support.

There are many opportunities to contribute “beyond our borders” through organizations that support women and other good causes that help women and their families. These include internships as well as employment at many of the organizations highlighted in this article. And, if there is a particular need that you feel is underserved, you can always look to create a new solution — that is the Ursuline way! Anne Simmons-Benton ’74, an attorney who has specialized in international law for developing economies, is a consultant with the firm of Booz Allen Hamilton. Her work focuses on legal and commercial interests facing developing countries in order for them to encourage economic growth and alleviate poverty. Prior to joining Booz Allen Hamilton, Anne served as the U.S. Delegate to the World Trade Organization’s Integrated Framework for Trade-Related Technical Assistance to Least-Developed Countries.

To learn how you can get involved, visit www.ursulinedallas.org/LOGOS.

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

global education

Ursuline delegation in China, April 2010 with host students near Beijing

Creating New Paths to Global Learning

rsuline students are learning about the world through experiences that offer insights into global issues, cultures, religions, languages, literature, economics, politics, geography, and more. Now efforts are underway to further integrate global education strategies into the classroom, with a focus on interdisciplinary approaches and 21st century learning skills. Over the next five years, the school-wide initiative will engage the entire faculty and full curriculum. The goal of this approach is to help students better understand and investigate the world as they study what they need to know to be successful in a global society. As part of the process, they learn to weigh perspectives, communicate ideas, and take actions that ensure justice and human dignity for all. A technology-rich environment also gives Ursuline students greater ability to make global connections, take virtual journeys, and develop the advanced learning skills they

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need for college and beyond. A team of 12 faculty members met for three weeks in summer of 2010 with Judy Conk, consultant with the Asia Society, to develop a deeper understanding of how to incorporate global education into their disciplines. During the current school year, all faculty members are participating in weekly professional development activities to support curriculum development. The 2010 summer team is working with the 9th grade faculty on curricula for implementation in 2011-12. A 10th grade team will participate in professional development with the Asia Society this summer. Called by the Ursuline Sisters to “go beyond our borders,” Ursuline schools worldwide embrace educational, spiritual, and service goals consistent with the social teachings of the Catholic Church. The National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) also challenges its member schools to promote curricula and programs that highlight the interconnectedness of all peoples. In addition to curricular and co-curricular initiatives, Ursuline brings guest speakers to campus to speak on various global issues. Last October, Ursuline partnered with The University of Texas at Austin to present “GirlTalk: Energy, Climate & Water in the 21st Century” for both Ursuline students and Dallas area middle school girls. The program focused on environmental issues with the goal of encouraging student interest in science. On Global Issues Day 2010, Ursuline students took part in a variety of cultural awareness and celebratory activities and heard from presenters including best-selling author Immaculée Ilibagiza, survivor of the Rwandan genocide. Students get involved in clubs and activities such as Model UN, NAIS People of Color Conference and Institute for Student Leadership, and World Affairs Council programs. Students and faculty also participate in exchange visits throughout the year with Ursuline’s sister schools around the world. Ursuline’s Sister School Partnerships Huaxia Girls’ Academy – Beijing, China Colegio Santa Ursula Vitacura – Santiago, Chile Colegio Santa Ursula – Lima, Peru Instituto Nossa Senhora da Piedade – Ilhéus, Brazil

In the Classroom Global Education coursework is rich in technology and content. The summer 2010 faculty team designed a variety of individual and collaborative projects. Here are a few examples.

Mathematics Rhonda Bush created a project that challenges students to develop advocacy math models to engineer child and women friendly devices to carry water long distances. Students must calculate the area of various shapes, explore concepts such as population density, and create math models to make, as well as defend, their engineering design. Students learn to ar-

ticulate well by analyzing charts, graphs, and measurements. World Languages Magda Lavault chose to assign students the task of examining the requirements that countries have for admittance to college. The course, in Spanish, allows students to interact with Ursuline’s sister schools in South America and to become familiar with the similarities and differences of curriculum, daily life, and values of other cultures. Visual Arts Rachel Obranovich’s project explores the history and science of color and how its symbolic meanings vary in interesting ways across cultures. Students learn beginning color theory, about color field painting and some ideas about symbolism, and are then encouraged to discover additional facts and

uses in science, literature, religion, and other areas. Student groups present research about one color in particular and a short activity for the rest of the class. Students also explore personal affinities for certain colors in a portrait painting activity. Social Studies and Physics Charlotte Tatsch and Anita Pezzimenti created a project for students to explore the laws of motion and relate them to the political, social, and economic literature of the British, American, and French revolutions. A discussion on Natural Philosophy and the emerging scientific method of Galileo, Descartes, Kepler, Brahe, and Newton is presented; the impact of these scientists on the Enlightenment ideas of the 18th century is understood, and their experiments are re-created in the physics lab. Math and Music Tammy Yung and Jane Chambers teamed up to present the music and math unit. Students study the twelve-tone row as the patterns are revealed in both their mathematical transformations and musical form. Through an understanding of the physics of both instrumental and vocal expression, students create their own compositions, demonstrating their understanding of math and music as partners of universal language.

To learn more, visit www.ursuline dallas.org/globaleducation.

Global Issues Day featured small group discussions and special presentations that explored issues such as human rights, health care, and education. "Celebratory" activities included demonstrations of global arts and culture.

Dr. Hilary Clement Olson '79, UT Austin Jackson School of Geosciences and lead organizer of the GirlTalk event, shows students how to examine microfossils for indicators of global climate change.

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

faculty profile

Things You Might Not Know About Connie Young

1. She originally set out to be a lawyer and study international law.

style and passion for history. “To reenact the lives of African slaves traveling on a cramped boat from Africa to America, Ms. Young had us sit under our desks and then beat the tops of them with a stick,” says Elizabeth Stanton ’08. “Once she pulled out a plastic axe…while telling the story of the wives of Henry VIII.” Connie describes her teaching method as “telling it like a soap opera,” because history is a never-ending story, with many different plot lines going on at the same time. “You just have to delve into it a little bit, and pick themes that run throughout history in order to get it all in,” she says. World history became Connie’s favorite subject to teach at Ursuline because it touched on a vast number of countries, many of which she was fortunate enough to visit and experience for herself.

ROOM

127 2. She taught in the same classroom, Room 127, for 23 out of 30 years at Ursuline.

3. Her favorite historical figure is Queen Elizabeth I because they share a birthdate.

Connie Young: The Next Chapter

fter 30 years as a member of the Ursuline Academy social studies faculty, Connie Young ’60 has closed the books on teaching and started the next chapter in her life. “Connie has added so much to the department. Her devotion to strong teaching methods and to her students will be hard to replace,” says Mary Jane Roper, current social studies department chair and a longtime colleague. “Most of all, her friendship, support, and strong dedication to Ursuline values will be greatly missed.”

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

Connie received her bachelor’s degrees in education, Spanish, and social studies from the University of Dallas. Following her college graduation she took a 9-month trip around Europe with a friend, a car, and no agenda. For the next 13 years, she taught 8th grade at Mary Immaculate School in Farmers Branch, Texas. Connie returned to teach at her alma mater in 1980. She was immediately nostalgic, but this time she would be sitting on the other side of the desk. “It felt like home,” Connie says, “because I remembered being in those hallways as a student.” Former students fondly recall her unique teaching

4. She is a M.A.S.H. fanatic and has seen every episode of the television series.

5. While touring Europe, she sang “The Eyes of Texas,” at the Vienna Opera House in front of a large group of fellow tourists, at the prodding of a tour guide.

It felt like home because I remembered being in those hallways as a student. “She ignited my passion and interest in international affairs, and my desire to live abroad in Venezuela and Chile,” says Allison Heidbrink Nanni ’91. Connie Young has always emphasized the importance of learning about other cultures, both in the classroom and through international travel. She is particularly excited about Ursuline’s most recent efforts to encourage greater awareness of global issues and life in other countries. As for what the future holds, Connie says, “I have done everything I wanted to do already, so I started my bucket list this year!” First on the list is an Alaskan cruise, and then a trip to the Galapagos Islands. Connie has a love for the outdoors, and is looking forward to putting her green thumb to work by cleaning up her backyard and garden. While the saying goes “history repeats itself,” it is safe to say that Connie Young and her style of teaching, from historical reenactments to vibrant storytelling, will remain a unique treasure in Ursuline’s own history.

2010–2011 Alumnae Faculty and Staff

Name

Number of Years at UA

Department

Susan Flume Bauer ’64

Director of Technology

Sarah Berry ’03

Theology

Jennifer Hurley Bubel ’80

Library Assistant

Mary Smith Campise ’82 15

Assistant Director of Admission

Melissa Miramontes 5 Carpenter ’84

Athletic Department Administrative Assistant

Monica Prachyl Cochran ’71

English

Monica de la Cerda ’91

Dean of Students

Julia Frasco ’05 2

Alumnae Relations Associate

Suzy Fowler Grossman ’59

World Languages

Alexandra Huffman ’00

Personal Counseling

Colleen Johnson Johnson ’98 6

Health and Physical Education

Diana Coulter Liese ’83

Finance Office

Gabrielle Merani ’04

English

Ann Middendorf ’84

Theology

Christine Miller ’00

Science

Regina Fonts Morris ’82

Director of Alumnae

Sr. Margaret Ann Moser, O.S.U. ’56

President

Cidney Cook Nichols ’80 9

Dean of Students Administrative Assistant

Cecilia Nipp ’85 13

Director of Diversity and Global Education

Jennifer Pace ’02

English

Lauren Field Stewart ’00 6

Health and Physical Education

Sr. Mary Troy, O.S.U. ’51 17

St. Joe’s Chief Hospitality Officer

Sybil Emmett Tucker ’51

Archivist

Kathy Malloy Valenzuela ’85

Technology

Barbara Woster ’90

Computer Science

Connie Young ’60

History

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

ways of giving

The Gift of Education Letters from the heart

Raffo, Dear Mr. and Mrs.

ple. h kind and giving peo nk you for being suc tha to y nit rtu was po I r, op this n for my senior yea I would like to take news of your decisio the me e gav nor ser t Mo me Ann in my life have I When Sr. Margaret and gratitude. Never joy h wit ed my fill s ul wa tef art to describe how gra overwhelmed; my he . I will never be able you as ple peo us ero encountered such gen nderful your generosity. for are I d an reminisce on the wo ily fam ine, I can’t help but sul Ur at re he r yea rdinary t y to receive an extrao As I approach my las I had the opportunit ve ha ly on t No w call no re. he ng girls whom I years that I have had gh to meet the amazi ou en ate tun for n he ve lped ve bee Ursuline student ha education, but I ha ve experienced as an ha I t tha rs teful. yea ee thr for that I am truly gra my sisters. The past ped to become, and ho ays alw ve ha come I ays son t I know I can alw mold me into the per call home, a place tha to ce pla a ve ha I t tha girl. It is because of you r will be an Ursuline that I am and foreve say ly ud pro campus is; it was ald an ine to sul back how beautiful the Ur of e aw in ays wever alw s called my “school.” Ho As a freshman, I wa this amazing place I h wit e on e pus I om bec cam ly ng, it is not the most as if I hadn’t ful Academy each morni ine sul Ur of love es h gat wit the community filled now, as I drive into rt of such an amazing pa ng bei of ht ug tho am in awe of, but the rounded . ion dit tra y, we are always sur and has made our job eas od “G , me d truly tol ce st when I say I never My grandmother on m.” I have to be hone the fy nti ide ndis gra do to my ve that I realized what by angels, all we ha wasn’t until that day It . you t rd ha me I it y d da nable ways that I fin believed this until the in so many unimagi me d sse ble s ha d Go mother truly meant. in my life. , I hope blessed to have you ly tru am I e. iev nkful I am. However bel to not describe how tha can rds wo ple ause of sim bec of my heart. It is I realize that these you from the bottom nk tha I say I o en wh helped wh ing back to the ones you can believe me nothing without giv is s ces suc t t we can tha d ly about. I hope tha you that I have learne suline and life is tru Ur at wh me t gh tau ve you get there. You ha near future. the in ch tou in p kee Sincerely, dent ip Your Scholarsh Stu ient cip Re 2010-11

dowed Scholarship

Agnes M. Hayes En

To Our Deare

st Student,

Thank you fo r your wonde rful note, bu us to fulfill ou t it is Bob an r dream. Hel d I who need ping to educ to thank you wanted to do ate girls has for helping . It is a vocatio always been n for us, one so mething that There is a qu pa ss ed we have on fr om my mothe ote from Sir John Lubboc r. portant thin k that I have g is not so m always loved. uch that ever He said, “The be given the y child should wish to learn. imbe ta ught, as that ” I’ve thought ev have had a st ery child shou of that often rong desire to ld and reflected learn instilled on how luck firmed on a da in me at hom y I am ily basis at U to e. I was even rsuline. Whi luckier to ha trouble, it ha le that insatia ve it reafs more often bl e curiosity has dr iven me to ta often gotten importantly, ke new risks, me into it has helped seek out new me to easily challenges an you have been set aside failu d, most graced with res. It is clea family mem r after meetin you, too. It is bers that real g yo u that such a gift to ly instilled th both Bob an is wish for le I really love d me to be ab arning in that you have le to support that in some developed su mates. Those small way. ch close rela are going to tionships with lift you up as your fellow have been by yo u sail throug classmy side duri h your life. M ng my darkes y Ursuline cl (marrying B t days (losing as sm ob). They drop ates my mother) everything to and my brig at Ursuline at be by my side ht es t da the age of te ys when I call fo n (they had r help. When believed that a grade scho I st ar te the girls sitt ol d way back then ing by my si ) I never wou ways believe de would still ld ha d that friend ve be at my side 40 s are God’s w years later. I’v abundant am ay of taking e alount of care care of us. H th e has provided ro ugh my Ursul for more. me with an ine classmat es. I couldn’t possibly have As you contin asked ue your seni or year, embrac tersweet, the e all the joy excitement an ahead. While d expectatio it is somewha seem endles n of what lie t bits. I want to s ahead is in as su re toxicating. Po you that feel phases of your ssibilities ing will cont life. I am so inue to exist glad that we in so many you during th were able to other is special year meet so that . now I have an image of

Susan Hayes

To learn more about ways to support scholarships for Ursuline students, contact Christy Frazer, Director of Institutional Advancement, cfrazer@ursulinedallas.org.

Love, Raffo ’74

“We are so honored to assist you in your Ursuline journey. And once that journey is complete, we hope you help others find the angels within them. We are so proud of you.” — Robert Raffo Susan Hayes Raffo ’74 and her husband Robert established The Agnes M. Hayes Endowed Scholarship at Ursuline Academy in honor of Susan’s mother in 2000.

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

living serviam

Empowering

Children Serving the World My Story by Agnes Kasule ’01

ourteen years ago, I was given the opportunity to study in the United States, springing into reality a dream I never had. Today, this dream has turned into a purposeful calling. I was born to a teacher and a housewife in Uganda, and education was something I cherished. So, when my parents passed away and my uncles opted to send my elder brother to school, declaring that the girls did not need education because they would get married and nothing would be gained from it, my elder sister and I wept. Luckily another uncle, who believed in educating women, intervened. My educational journey was launched then and has meant the difference in my life. My education in the U.S. started with Montessori instruction at St. Alcuin and continued at Ursuline Academy of Dallas and Boston College where I was awarded a degree in international studies and economics. At each of these three institutions I witnessed how young people are formed into independent thinkers — free to question, formulate answers, and influence one another’s learning. Through hard work, encouragement, tradition, discipline, and service I acquired the tools and skills to apply myself in any situation. Four years ago I returned to Uganda, both to honor the wishes of the organization that supported me while in the U.S. and to reconnect with my community with the hope of finding a purpose for my life’s journey. I returned home unemployed and apprehensive about starting over in a place I had not lived for 10 years, but was confident that, with my critical thinking skills, I would be employable. Although I was not ready to pursue my master’s degree, I was certain that I wanted to study water dispute resolution and work with an intergovernmental organization focusing on water issues within the Nile Basin. In November 2006, after a four-month internship with

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

the International Law Institute in Kampala, I was approached by Empower African Children (EAC) to be their lead person in Uganda during its inception, and I have been a part of the organization ever since. We work with orphaned and vulnerable children, providing them an innovative education coupled with skills to help them discover and reach their fullest potential. With my “water” passion burning in my mind and heart, I often wonder whether working with children is what I ought to be doing. However, I have found purpose in working with children. In this job, all challenges lead to amazing rewards but there are many rewards that are not preceded by any challenges. I have witnessed positive and promising changes take place in the children, and by working with

I have found purpose in working with children. In this job, all challenges lead to amazing rewards. them, I know it is a sure way for me to touch my people, my community, my nation, and our world. In these four years, I have been continually amazed by the difference education makes, and, not just any education, but education in a supportive environment with teachers and administrators who nurture the children’s talents, adapt to their learning styles, and turn their misgivings into opportunities for better development. However, this is not the norm in Ugandan schools. Founded on a several-decades-old curriculum, the Ugandan system of learning emphasizes memorization — that is how teachers are taught and, by default, that is how the students acquire their knowledge. The system offers no alternative learning methods. If children do not perform well in class, they are categorized as “not clever.” With academic performance serving as a measure of capability to perform other duties, these children rarely have any other opportunities to shine. My investigations and observations have led me to the heart-wrenching realization of the inadequacies in our education system. We are blessed with brilliant individuals, yet the system fails to rightly form, support, and nurture their intellect. You find students getting perfect scores on their exams but lacking discernment; administrators and teachers whose form of discipline is humiliation; systems in which self-expression is seen as arrogance; students in classrooms where they are beaten into learning; teachers who regard any questions or suggestions as an insult to their intellect; and very few schools that try to teach students to think, analyze, and apply their talents and skills. Working with vulnerable and orphaned children has shown me how unfair the system is. When children are brought to EAC they are often very timid, cannot speak much English, and lack a strong academic foundation. When we take them to our partner schools, Taibah Schools, they experience a “foreign” approach to education. The directors and teachers take interest in them and guide them. As a result, I have been able to see in them an enormous boost of confidence within a couple of months, which, in turn, positively affects grades, relationships, and participation. EAC has bought ten acres of land outside Kampala to

construct our very own (to borrow Oprah’s phrase) “campus of possibility.” The campus will serve 400 secondary school students with 80 percent of the population being vulnerable and orphaned children and 20 percent from the community; 60 percent of the population will be girls. We will teach the Ugandan curriculum because it is a requirement for admission into university or any tertiary institutions, but we will also provide magnets in the arts, technology, and health. We want for our children what any parents want for their children; meeting basic needs is not enough. We will have a top-notch professional development program along with meaningful partnerships, both local and international, to give our children the skills to become contributing members in their communities. I have always felt the need for an overhaul of our education system, but I did not see myself performing that duty. After careful analysis of the needs and the great reward of working with young people, who take any chance given to them and blossom, my ambitions changed. I have decided to go into education. I would like to study education development, return home, and use my knowledge to train teachers and other educators on best practices to determine how we can influence our education system to get the most out of our people. The best hope for Uganda, Africa, and our whole world at large lies within the quality of education provided to our young people. There is nothing that will make me as content as knowing that I was given the chance, the knowledge, and the tools to touch my people from the very core of human development, and I did it. In my capacity, I believe there is no better way to serve my country, continent, and world than this.

Top picture: Agnes (middle) with Maureen (l) and Joan (r), two children in the care of EAC, discussing school-related topics. Bottom picture: The dance troupe from Empower African Children, as part of their 2010 fund-raising tour in the U.S., performs at Ursuline Academy on Global Celebration Day.

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

career day Speakers' Fields Accounting Carolyn Thomas Murray '87 Acting and Entertainment Laurie McNair Kerri Navarro Advertising/Marketing Courtney Bono Melissa Dominguez '05 Kristen Reed Joan Hemstreet West '86 Arts and Museums Jeanne Chvosta Carmen Smith Attorneys The Honorable Jennifer Balido Lori Ashmore Peters '87 Broadcast Journalism Stephanie Hockridge Woyski '01 Business Management Jessica Corrales Gossage '87 Counseling Toni Scalise Borowczak '90 Dentistry Dr. Deborah Foyle Dr. Rosemarie Ruiz Zartman '83 Educators Lauren Roberts Engineering Elizabeth Crowe Katie Hogan '04 Film Melina McKinnon '91 Finance and Banking Amber Andregg '03 Joyce Schaer-Spamer Food and Restaurant Lauren Kitchens '93

Position

Speakers' Fields 1

Senior VP, Wealth Management & Trust, Plains Capital Freelance Producer/ Actor/Editor Producer/Actor Director of Brand Activation, Dr. Pepper Snapple Group Website Coordinator, Immediate Resource Owner, KREED + Company Senior Account Executive, Univision Television Group Collections Manager, Rachofsky House Director of Education, SMU Meadows Museum Judge, 203 District Court rd

Attorney, The Ashmore Law Firm, P.C. News Anchor/Reporter, WDAF-Fox 4 News Kansas City Manager, Purchasing & Promotional Procurement, Mary Kay Cosmetics Family Therapist, Corbella Counseling Periodontist, Private Practice Dentist, Assistant Professor, Baylor College of Dentistry Assistant Principal, St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School Senior Transportation Engineer, P.E. Dunaway Associates, L.P. Civil Engineer, Stormwater Management, Freese and Nichols, Inc. Producer, CEO and Founder, M3 Films, L.L.C. Financial Planner, Ricker Retirement Specialists Director of New Client Development, Wells Capital Management Owner/Executive Chef, Fancy Cakes by Lauren

Career Day 2010

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

What do I want to be when I grow up?

ome of us, even in our 40s, are still asking this question! So you can imagine the career thoughts a high school girl might be entertaining these days. Every other year, the Ursuline Alumnae Association hosts a Career Day for the students. I had the pleasure of chairing the event this year, for the second time, and could not have been more proud of and excited about the women who spoke to the girls. Our keynote speaker was Dr. Annie Kahn Vaughan ’89, Pediatric Anesthesiologist at North Texas Children’s Anesthesiology. Annie took us on her college journey, which faced several major changes along the way. She found that the experiences she gained from Ursuline ultimately helped her form her final career path. Annie wanted the girls to know that you can do anything you want no matter your class rank or strength in specific subjects. She shared that her love of literature and Spanish ended up helping her get into medical school. There were three break-out sessions the girls could attend. We hosted 50 speakers, including 29 alumnae, who ranged from doctors, lawyers, engineers, nurses, and secret service employees to news broadcasters, personal counselors, and even an alumna who was a Food Network Challenge champion! Our speakers inspired many of the girls and gave them confidence to pursue career paths they might not have considered. An Ursuline junior wrote to one of our speakers, “I was truly inspired at your session. I have been doing a lot of soul-searching to identify my interest. You drew me in when you said ‘If you enjoy helping others, you would enjoy this job!’ It is the Serviam spirit in me. Thank you for allowing me to take another step towards determining who I might become once I graduate from Ursuline Academy.”

Genevieve Rubensteen Dittmar ’80 2010 Career Day Chair

1. Stephanie Hockridge Woyski '01 and Danielle Mitchell '01; 2. Sr. Margaret Ann Moser, O.S.U. '56, Dr. Annie Kahn Vaughan '89, Betty Bourgeois; 3. Genevieve Rubensteen Dittmar '80 and Emily Candee '03; 4. Margaret Dempsey '80 and Margo Bryan '80; 5. Dr. Rosemarie Ruiz Zartman '83 and Olivia Kathleen Price '10; 6. Carrie Snyder '05,

Caroline Taken '12, and Lauren Kitchens '93.

Interior Design Julianne Rouquette Cary '96 Josey Fonts Kennington '84 Anne Stone International Education Catherine Jones '90 Courtney Harnden Link '92 Law Enforcement Erin Erdman Ortiz '96 Kathleen Flatley Hickman '76 Medical Dr. Kandice Kilbride Dr. Marcia Pritchard Dr. Annie Kahn Vaughan '89 Dr. Diane Twickler Wendel Non-Profit Janet Madrazo Marie McMurchie Nursing Sheryl Bartlett Danielle Mitchell '01 Beth Geisler Singel '87 Photography Suzanne Riederer Pizzo '82 Physical Therapy Tricia Mantheiy Doyle '85 Megan Simms, OTR Psychology Margaret Dempsey Ph.D. '80 Public Relations Apryl Dominguez Churchill '91 Real Estate Emily Candee '03 Retail/Merchandising Margo Bryan '80 Sports Management Theresa Mosmeyer Mary Walters '75 Technology Tina Schuster Small '88

Position Interior/Hotel Designer, Looney and Associates Interior Designer, Paloma Creations Designer/Sales, Anne Stone Contract Sales Owner, Educational Travel Consultant, The Edentives Group Vice President for University Customized Programs, Academic Programs International Special Agent, United States Secret Service Assistant Special Agent in Charge, United States Secret Service Breast Surgeon, Texas Presbyterian Dallas Health Pediatric Radiologist, Parkland Hospital Pediatric Anesthesiologist, North Texas Children's Anesthesia Professor of Radiology Obstetrics & Gynecology, UT Southwestern Medical Center Non-Profit Consultant and Adjunct Professor, Dallas County Community College District Regional Director, Muscular Dystrophy Association RN, Clinical Coordinator Hematology, Children's Medical Center RN, Cardiac Intensive Care Unit, Children's Medical Center RN, Operating Room, Children's Medical Center Freelance Photographer Pediatric Physical Therapist Occupational Therapist Licensed Child Psychologist Public Relations Manager, Neiman Marcus Associate, Transwestern Operations Manager, Margo's Collectibles Director of Student Union, UT Dallas Athletic Director, St. Rita Catholic School Program Manager, Texas Instruments

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

alumnae achievements

in memoriam

Reflections

In fall 2010, Ursuline lost two pillars of its community — Sr. Dolores Marie Ramsey, O.S.U. and Father Jack Deeves, S.J. The following reflections offer insight to the legacies of these two beloved individuals and their lives of service, compassion, love, and leadership.

Kudos Sharon Keating McQuown ’74, R.N., M.S.N., L.N.C.C., has been elected President of the American Association of Legal Nurse Consultants (AALNC). Sharon is a key member in The Law Offices of Frank L. Branson in Dallas.

Sr. Dolores Marie Ramsey, O.S.U. 1913 – 2010 3

Kathryn Shields Eriksen ’76 published her first Christian children’s book entitled, Walk With the Master, released by Tate Publishing in April 2010. The book was awarded the NABE Pinnacle Book Achievement Award for Spring 2010. Michele Warren Elchlepp ’77, Chair of the Jesuit College Preparatory School Theology Department, was awarded the University of Dallas School of Ministry Lumen Gentium Award as an outstanding alumnus of the School of Ministry graduate program. Dianne Wright Doyle ’78 was presented with the “Angel of the Year” award in April 2010 by Catholic Charities of Dallas, Inc. M. Jeanette (“Jenny”) Yakamavich Fedele ’88 was recognized by Texas Super Lawyers as a “Rising Star” in the April 2010 edition of Texas Monthly magazine. The honor recognizes “up-and-coming attorneys in the state who are 40 years old or younger, or who have been practicing for 10 years or less.” No more than 2.5 percent of the lawyers in the state are named to the “Rising Stars” list. Suzy Rossol Matheson ’92 received the Exceptional Service Award from the American Dance Therapy Association at the fall 2010 Annual Conference for outstanding contributions to the profession of dance/movement therapy and to ADTA. Jennifer Houston ’95 was featured on the June 2010 cover of the Harvard Business School Alumni Bulletin for her role as Director of Strategic Initiatives at Dallas Museum of Nature and Science. The new $185 million museum on a 4.7-acre site in Victory Park will be called the Perot Science Museum. Emily Rice ’06 starred this past July-August, as Maria in The Sound of Music and performed in The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee at the Heritage Theatre Festival in Charlottesville, Va.

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

Fr. Jack Deeves, S.J. 1928 – 2010

1. Emily Rice ’06 starring as Maria in The Sound of Music; 2. Jennifer Houston ’95 on the cover of the Harvard Business School Alumni Bulletin; 3. Portrait of St. Angela Merici painted by former Ursuline visual arts instructor Linda McCall.

Miranda Colletta ’07, nominated in May 2010 by a faculty member at The University of Texas at Austin, is one of 278 students selected nationwide to receive the Goldwater Scholarship. The scholarship program encourages students pursuing careers in mathematics, the natural sciences, and engineering. The Class of 2010 commissioned artist and former Ursuline visual arts instructor Linda McCall to paint a portrait of St. Angela Merici. The painting, gifted to the Academy and beautifully displayed in the Rotunda, tells St. Angela’s story as it might relate to today’s students. To learn more of the inspiration and the symbolism depicted in the painting, visit www.ursulinedallas.org/mccallpainting

By Elena Doskey ’06 Father Jack Deeves wore many hats during his wonderful 82 years on this Earth. He was a priest, a gentleman, a cheerleader, a cheerleading coach, a teacher, a physicist, a theologian, a singer, an actor, a comedian, and a friend. But most importantly, he was the face of Christ. So while we may not remember a single thing from his physics or theology classes that is actually related to physics or theology and while some may not have thought his jokes were funny, whether we knew it or not, we encountered Christ in that man and ultimately took one step closer to Heaven. In the end, isn’t that what it’s all about? When Father Deeves taught us or presided at our weddings or comforted us, he did so much more than simply talk with us. He reached inside, took hold of our souls, and in that moment, transformed us.

To read more about Fr. Jack Deeves, visit www.ursulinedallas.org/deeves.

By Sr. Mary Troy, O.S.U. ’51 I did not want to tell people I was entering the convent until the very last minute; I had wanted to preserve my “normal” life. So, besides my family, I only wanted to tell two Ursuline nuns — Mother Mary Joseph Richardson and Mother Dolores Marie. (The title was Mother then.) They kept my secret. But a few days before I was to leave for the Novitiate, Mother Dolores Marie told me I should really come out and say goodbye to the Community — which I did the day before I left. They were all gathered in the Rotunda, all those long black habits. That day, I developed a severe case of cold feet. What was I getting myself into? Doubts were assailing me. So much so that when Mother Isabelle said, “Mary, I didn’t know you wanted to enter the convent,” I said: “I don’t!” (They all laughed at that!) Then, Mother Dolores Marie walked me to my car and I poured out all my doubts to her. She listened, and then said, “When Jesus said, ‘Come follow me,’ he didn’t say it would be easy.” Those words went straight to my heart and lodged there — and dissipated my fears instantly. And those words have strengthened my spirit many times, especially during those first few months of my life as an Ursuline Sister. I am proud to be one of a number of girls from Ursuline in Dallas to enter the Ursuline convent — largely because of the strong influence of Sister Dolores Marie. Besides being an excellent principal, Sister Dolores Marie was a personal mentor to many. She was tough, respected, and very much loved by her students.

To read more about Sr. Dolores Marie, visit www.ursulinedallas.org/ramsey.

Memorial gifts may be made to the Fr. Jack Deeves Endowed Scholarship or the Sr. Dolores Marie Ramsey Endowed Scholarship at Ursuline Academy of Dallas Foundation, 4900 Walnut Hill Lane, Dallas, Texas 75229. Or, to make a gift online, please visit www.ursulinedallas.org/scholarships.

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

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Easter Event

Chapters 2

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1. Rubi Rosales-Salazar ’95, Tomas, and Nicolas Salazar; 2. Chris, James, Mandy Marsh Click ’90, and Addie Click; 3. Class of 1993, Mary Gonzales, Christina Fehrenbach Soderberg, Bianca Ratcliff Garchar, Brandy Gostin Prince, Jennifer Keene Andrews, Kimberlie Keene Sanders, and Ann Allen Rose; 4. Christina Brophy O’Shell ’87, Michael, Alexandra, and Michael Jr.; 5. Kim Martinez '97 and Aidan Martinez; 6. Face painter with Cooper Nelson, son of Lauren Whitacre Nelson ’98; 7. Kelly Moore Cook ’85, Kinsley, Karoline, Kelsey, and Katie Grace Cook; 8. Brooke Houston Green ’97 and Caroline Green.

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

1. April 22, 2010 Austin Alumnae Chapter Event; 2. Austin Chapter Alumnae Ann-Marie Munin Helling '87 and Sage Baker Jones '87; 3. June 17, 2010 Portland Alumnae; 4. March 11, 2010 Washington D.C. Chapter Alumnae, Tiphanie Richardson Hill ’85 and Julie Lenzer Kirk ’84; 5. March 11, 2010 Washington, D.C. Chapter Alumnae, Loretta Solon Greene ’81, Diana Rayfield Rode ’86, and Maureen Keating Vance ’86; 6. March 11, 2010 Washington, D.C. Chapter Alumnae, Allison Slayton ’97, Ana Ramon Sherman ’99, Laurie Duval Vaudreuil '89, and Fiona Warmath '06.

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

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Phonathon

Reunions

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1. Class of 1977: (top row l to r) Katy Haden Einspanier, Cynthia Tarantino Hanna, Bridgett Dunne Buell, (bottom row l to r) Kathy Martin Weatherford, Kathy Rix Hogan, Tricia Danna Johnson; 2. Class of 1960: Dianne Love and Colleen Costello Armstrong; 3. Class of 1998: (top row l to r) Elizabeth Nelson Keller, Kate Kilanowski, (bottom row l to r) Sarah Johnston Polzer, Michelle Stevens White, Caytie Sarandis Langford, Stacey Alexander; 4. Rebecca Sims O’Brien ’97, Lola Cueller Sims ’70, Amy Sims ’99; 5. Karen Meier Eubanks ’83 and Deb Borrell Tregre ’83; 6. Class of 1987: Carolyn Thomas Murray, Michele Balady Beach, and Mary Manion Fent; 7. Susan Wolff Wolf ’83 and Diana Coulter Liese ’83; 8. Ashley Lattner Young ’99, Nicole Lattner ’00, and Vicky Pitts Lattner ’69.

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

1. Class of 1954: (bottom row l to r) Joyce Grissaffi Wolff, Gerri Cirone Martin, (top row l to r) Barbara Keuchel Turner, Janet Moser Butler, Joan Works Johnson, Patti Murphy Meliaffey, Pat O'Hearn Terwilliger; 2. Class of 2000: Nicole Lattner, Elizabeth Wilbert Midgett, Kaylen McCurry Meserve, Annie Salem; 3. Class of 1960; 4. Class of 1988, Girls Night Out; 5. Class of 1980.

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

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Merici High School Event 1

1. Marilyn Patrice Fleming '62, Betty Lee Marquis '46, and Martha Blalack Brooks '40; 2. Teresa Messina Rogers '52

Homecoming 2010

1. Class of 1985, Maribeth Messineo Peters, Gina Scalise Landry, Cecilia Nipp, and Kelly Moore Cook; 2. Jerry, Martha, Madeleine Huffman Harrison ’98, and Alexandra Huffman ’00; 3. Mary Walker Sladek ’79 and Sr. Catherine Chandler, O.S.U. ’36.

For the latest news and photo galleries, visit www.ursulinedallas.org/alumnaenews

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS