Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
A Statement on Community and Inclusion
Inspired by the legacy of St. Angela Merici, the Ursuline community believes that all humanity is created in God’s image and likeness. We unequivocally condemn all forms of prejudice, racism, bigotry, and injustice that may have historically resulted in marginalization, hatred, and violence. It is our shared responsibility both individually and collectively, to counter discrimination and to uphold our Ursuline core values.
- We believe in the uniqueness and dignity of each individual as a beautiful creation of God.
- We desire for each student to feel known, heard, and valued so deeply that they are, in the words of St. Angela, “engraved upon our hearts.”
- We are committed to creating an equitable, inclusive, and just community in which every person experiences a true sense of belonging.
- We are dedicated to the formation of students, who are both compassionate in conscience and bold in social action.
- We, the members of Ursuline Academy of Dedham, accept the responsibility to foster, strengthen, and sustain the growth of our inclusive community for the benefit of all.
“My friends, we cannot tolerate or turn a blind eye to racism and exclusion in any form and yet claim to defend the sacredness of every human life.”
– Pope Francis (June 30, 2020)
Racial Justice Club
The Racial Justice Club was established in 2020. This affinity group provides a safe space for students to gather based on self-identity, providing a place to have conversations, share stories, take action, and empower each other. Allies who wish to learn more and engage in meaningful conversations are also welcome. Additional affinity groups may be proposed by students and supported by the administration each school year.
Prism Club
Prism: An Ursuline Alliance is a student organization developed in response to the 1997 Pastoral message of the United States Bishops’ Committee on Family and Marriage titled “Always Our Children.” Prism seeks to provide a safe and supportive environment instilled with the Catholic Church’s appeal to care for those who identify as LGBTQ+ with sincere compassion, sensitivity, and inclusivity.
Partnership with Dr. Nate Sessoms
Ursuline Academy is proud to partner with Dr. Nathan Sessoms, Clinical Assistant Professor in Sociology and Urban & Environmental Studies at Loyola Marymount University (Los Angeles, CA). Dr. Sessoms also serves as the Principal & CEO of Success Beyond Measure, Inc., a diversity and educational equity consulting firm focused on dismantling racism and all forms of bigotry, while creating equitable outcomes.
For the past two years, Dr. Sessoms has established a presence on campus, while building strong relationships with students, faculty, staff, and administrators to assist in maintaining a welcoming campus environment.
During visits, Dr. Sessoms regularly conducts individual meetings with students, faculty, and staff to better understand their experiences and provide support where needed. Additionally, he facilitates various trainings aligned with Ursuline’s mission and core values, which emphasize the importance of fostering respect and affirming the human dignity of all members of the school community.
Culture Fair
Students participate in our annual culture fair, which showcases their research on communities around the globe.
Capstone Presentations
Civics Class presented their Capstone projects to Faculty & Staff. Maya Dorsainvil ’24, presented her research on the Portrayal of Black People in Media.
Black History Month
Our Racial Justice Club joins forces and talent with the NAHS to create an annual art exhibit.