General Information

“The last word that I address to you and one I urge upon you with all the ardor of my soul, is that you live in harmony, united together in one heart and one will. Be bound to one another by the bonds of charity, treating each other with respect, helping one another, bearing with each other in Christ Jesus: if you really try to live like this, there is no doubt that the Lord, our God, will be in your midst.” Last Counsel: vv. 1-3

— St. Angela Merici,

Foundress of the Order of St. Ursula

Inspired by these words, more than one hundred alumnae gathered in St. Ursula Hall on April 24, 1900, to form an alumnae association committed to strengthening the bond between former students and their alma mater. This date formally marks the organization of the Ursuline Alumnae Association of New Orleans.

Today, the Alumnae Association continues to foster a cooperative spirit among alumnae, students, Ursuline Sisters, faculty and the community while promoting the welfare of and prosperity for the good of the Academy.

Over the years, thousands of competent women have graduated from Ursuline Academy and have gone on to take their rightful places of service and influence worldwide. Graduates of Ursuline represent every aspect of possible careers and vocations. They are married, single, mothers, doctors, lawyers, accountants, artists, entrepreneurs, elected officials, but most of all, women who are dedicated to the model of service, demonstrating the Ursuline Academy motto, Serviam “I will serve.” They are women who are determined to make the world a better and just place to live.

The Alumnae Association consists of more than 5,500 existing members. The exact number of alumnae is unknown, as we have no records (if, indeed records were kept) for the years 1727–1806. The alumnae of Ursuline College and Academy of New Orleans continue to be loyal in their support of and devotion to their alma mater.

Former students of Ursuline Academy overwhelmingly acknowledge their alma mater as the single reason, beyond their parents, for their many successes in life. Each year dozens of events are coordinated by the Ursuline Alumnae Office, and Association Board, in order to continue to foster relationships and communication amongst its membership and their alma mater. Currently, the Association’s membership is worldwide. Click here to view a list of our nationwide established Alumnae Chapters.

United together, the Ursuline Alumnae Association of New Orleans continues in the tradition of those gathered in 1900. In keeping with the association’s motto, Cor Unum, “One Heart,” alumnae will continue to play a vital role in providing the necessary resources to support the Academy for many years to come.