Ursuline Academy of Dallas

What if this is exactly where you're meant to be?

For those who know Ms. Smith well, one thing becomes immediately clear: she is, as many describe her, “the warmest hug of a person.”

After 25 years of dedicated service at Ursuline Academy of Dallas, Journalism Teacher Melinda Smith is retiring, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, creativity, humor, and grace that has touched generations of students and colleagues. 🌹 https://bit.ly/4vn3m2b

After 19 years of dedicated service to Ursuline Academy of Dallas, Chief Development Officer Mimi Bason is retiring, leaving behind a legacy of generosity, leadership, and deep love for the Ursuline mission.

Through her leadership, the Development Office grew giving, deepened donor relationships, strengthened the school’s endowment, and built a team that flourished under her steady and supportive guidance. 🌹 https://bit.ly/4uKSg7b

“I am so proud of the outstanding young women who leave Ursuline to do remarkable things in the world, carrying the spirit of Serviam far beyond our campus.”

Read outgoing Chief Development Officer Mimi Bason's final letter to the Ursuline community: https://bit.ly/UACDO026

Over the years, Ms. Frasco became something of a legend at Ursuline. In fact, many new employees recall hearing the same question when they accepted positions at the school: “Do you know Suzy Frasco?”

After 26 years of faithful service at Ursuline Academy of Dallas, Theology Teacher Suzy Frasco is retiring, leaving behind a legacy of joy, generosity, and unwavering love for the Ursuline community. 🌹 https://bit.ly/3Shfljp

“I know there will be moments when they ask, ‘Who am I?’ and ‘What if?’ and ‘How will I?’ And God will say the same thing to them as He did to Moses and me, ‘I will be with you.’”

Read outgoing Dean of Students Mandy Briones's recent letter to the Ursuline community: https://bit.ly/43cNJyl

“I don’t think Serviam is possible without respect.”

After more than 30 years at Ursuline Academy of Dallas, English Teacher and Sci-Fi Club moderator Frank Bauroth leaves behind a legacy built on listening, belonging, and celebrating the individuality of every student who crossed his path. 🌹 https://bit.ly/3RZAuOZ

Congratulations to Ainsley ‘26, recipient of the Sister Emmanuel Shea Award, presented by the Ursuline Alumnae Association in honor of Sister Emmanuel’s joyful legacy of service. 🌹

Ainsley exemplifies the very best of our Ursuline tradition: a young woman of deep faith, unwavering integrity, and a profound commitment to serving God and others.

Faculty and staff nominated her with these words of praise: "She understands that leadership is not about recognition or titles. It is about using the gifts God has given her to uplift those around her."

"Ainsley's love for God is evident in every aspect of her life. She approaches each opportunity with a sincere desire to serve. She is a young woman of exceptional character who consistently chooses what is right. Her peers and teachers alike look to her as a trusted leader and role model."

🐻 Since her sophomore year, she has served as an Ambassador, warmly welcoming prospective students and families and sharing the story of Ursuline with joy and conviction. She has always represented our school with grace and enthusiasm, helping others see not only what Ursuline offers academically, but also the strength of the faith-centered sisterhood that defines this community.

✝️ Ainsley's commitment to ministry has been equally inspiring. She has helped lead school Masses, prayer services, and retreats, creating sacred moments that have helped her classmates grow closer to God.

🏐 She coached middle school volleyball, served as a scorekeeper for the Dallas Parochial League, and gave generously of her time to Scottish Rite Hospital.

❤️ One of the experiences that has been most meaningful to her is her work at Juniper Village, a senior living facility. There, she formed a special friendship with a resident whose life stories and faith offered wisdom and perspective.

Whether she is mentoring younger students, organizing service opportunities, leading prayer, or simply offering kindness to someone in need, Ainsley does so with a servant’s heart and a steadfast belief that God calls each of us to love and serve one another.

“As each senior walked across the stage during practice, I could not help but think about all the conversations, moments, and interactions that had led to a place where we could simply laugh together.”

Read outgoing Senior Grade Dean Matt Lepley's letter to the Ursuline community before Graduation: https://bit.ly/4dIKQLM