"Students don't learn from you because they care about what you know; they learn because they know you care."

This meaningful guidance, shared by Father Joseph Mazzone at Ursuline Academy's Faculty and Staff Mass prior to the start of the new school year, set a fitting tone for the months ahead. His words echoed the intentions set by Director of Mission, Equity, and Inclusion, Mary-Kate Tracy '94, who encouraged faculty and staff to stay present with a mindful objective -- to pay attention and look for students who may need a little extra care or connection.

It is in this spirit that Ursuline has made its most recent and purposeful improvement to its facilities. Through a generous matching grant from the McNeice Foundation, together with the extraordinary generosity of individual donors, Ursuline completed an ambitious renovation of its Academic Resource Center (ARC) this summer. The newly remodeled ARC offers a tangible example of Ursuline's progress toward its strategic vision, "Forward, Together," which calls for creating student-centered spaces that reflect the diverse needs of today's learners.

At its heart, the ARC is a place where students can access the resources, guidance, and support they need to succeed in their coursework. Ursuline, an all-girls Catholic school with a long history of academic excellence, understands that students learn best when they are recognized as unique individuals, supported in ways that reflect their individual needs while still being connected to a larger community.

According to a recent "State of the Girl" report (Girl Scouts of the USA, 2026), "Girls are not asking for less challenge; they are asking for more advocates and support. More spaces where they can build confidence, skills, and a sense of belonging. More time to take risks and try new things without the pressure to do it perfectly." The ARC answers this call -- not lessening academic challenge, but providing the tools, encouragement, and support that students need to thrive.

Liz Jenson '05, academic resource specialist, notes, "The renovation of the Academic Resource Center reflects Ursuline's commitment to meeting the needs of our students. The new space will provide a welcoming environment where students can access individualized support, build academic skills, and develop confidence in their abilities. We hope that it sends a strong message: we believe in you, we value how you learn, and we are committed to helping you discover just how capable you are."

Academic support also means something much simpler: having a focused, comfortable, and peaceful environment in which to work. Ursuline has intentionally designed this new space to reflect the many ways that students learn, gather, and work together. There are smaller spaces designed for students who need additional time to complete assessments or assignments. The space also features a well-appointed conference room where students can work in groups on special projects, as well as a comfortable lounge area where students can enjoy a good book or spend time in quiet reflection.

As the ARC opens its doors, it is a testament to the hard work of Ursuline's faculty and staff and their dedication to recognizing and nurturing each student's talents and abilities. At Ursuline, students will find a community that encourages curiosity, builds confidence, values their unique gifts, and helps them discover their full potential.

To learn more, visit Ursuline's Open House on Sunday, Oct. 18, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., call 781-493-7726, or go to ursulineacademy.net.



AUDRA KEEFE IS THE DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND COMMUNICATION (AKEEFE@URSULINEACADEMY.NET) AT URSULINE ACADEMY IN DEDHAM, MASSACHUSETTS, AN INDEPENDENT CATHOLIC SCHOOL FOR YOUNG WOMEN IN GRADES SEVEN THROUGH 12.