Q&A with Jessica Bailey at Ursuline Academy of Dallas

Jessica Bailey, a proud Ursuline Academy of Dallas alumna, serves as the Director of Admissions and Enrollment Management for Ursuline Academy of Dallas. Experienced in both independent and public secondary school education, Ms. Bailey has been a member of the Ursuline English faculty since 2016. She also served in school administration as Sophomore Grade Dean.

 Ursuline Academy of Dallas is a prestigious all-girls Catholic college preparatory schoolfounded in 1874. Known for its rigorous academic programs, the school emphasizes a holistic education that nurtures intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth. With a strong commitment to leadership and service, Ursuline educates young women for leadership in a global society.

 Preston Hollow Neighbors: What distinguishes Ursuline Academy from other Dallas schools?

Jessica Bailey: Infused by the spirit of Serviam (I will serve), Ursuline is distinguished as a premier educational institution and center of culture and faith. Three cornerstones combine to make Ursuline unique in the Dallas area.

Catholic Identity and Ursuline Heritage: Ursuline is deeply rooted in its Catholic faith and Ursuline traditions. This foundation shapes the school's mission, values, and educational approach, fostering a strong sense of community and spiritual growth for every student.

All-Girls High School: As the only all-girls Catholic high school in DFW, Ursuline provides a unique environment where young women are encouraged to excel academically and develop leadership skills in a nurturing faith-based environment. Research shows that girls in single-gender schools often achieve higher levels of confidence and academic success.

Commitment to Innovation and Tradition: Ursuline Academy balances a rich history with a forward-thinking approach to education. The school emphasizes creativity, curiosity, and collaboration, preparing students to be innovative leaders in a global society. We are committed to providing a learning environmentthat stimulates creativity and curiosity, sparks innovation, and encourages collaboration.

 PHN: What should prospective students know about Ursuline that they may not find on the website?

 JB: Our students create meaningful connections with their classmates, forged by shared experiences. Our students are given the opportunity to discover their passions and become their best selves – from championship sports to amazing arts programs, and impactful community service – there is something for everyone. In an encouraging environment with a range of programs, Ursuline empowers ourstudents to excel in all aspects of life.

PHN: What is your favorite Ursuline tradition?

JB: My favorite Ursuline tradition is Snowball,the senior year formal dance, which began in 1948. This magical evening of dinner and dancing connects each student to the Ursuline graduates who came before her and celebrates her approaching adulthood.

Beyond the formality and elegance of the dance itself, I love the tradition of selecting the SnowballCourt. Senior advisors bake cupcakes for the entire class, with a few cupcakes secretly (and randomly selected) containing a walnut or whole almonds. When the students gather in the dining hall, whoever finds the walnut in their cupcake becomes the Snowball Queen, and those who find almonds join her on the court. This random selection removes the pressure of popularity or voting often tied to similar traditions, making the process lighthearted and based purely on chance.

PHN: Are there upcoming opportunities to visit Ursuline?

JB: Visit the Ursuline Academy of Dallas website at WWW.URSULINEDALLAS.ORG to find out more about opportunities to visit our school.