Traditions
Some of the best experiences of being an Ursuline woman remain the same, even after nearly 130 years. Explore beloved traditions that continue to connect our school community through the generations.
Many of the traditions you will enjoy as an Ursuline student are deeply rooted in our past . These experiences help forge the bond of sisterhood with your classmates while linking you to generations of Ursuline women who came before you.
Junior Ring Ceremony
Each Fall, we celebrate the junior class becoming upperclasswomen through the ring ceremony. This time-honored tradition allows girls to join a legacy of thousands of Ursuline women that have worn the ring before them. The ring itself serves as a physical reminder of the responsibility that an Ursuline woman carries to advance the legacy and live the mission.
Mother-Daughter Fashion Show
Ursuline students and their moms enjoy a luncheon of raffles, fashion from local shops, and countless memories. The event, sponsored by the Mothers' Club, includes a runway walk modeled by senior UA students and their moms.
Spirit Week
Ursuline Spirit Week includes a kickoff assembly, the student-led canned food drive, and all-school day which allows for time away from the classroom for students, faculty, and staff to have fun as a community and celebrate Ursuline spirit.
Graduation
Floor-length white gowns, a dozen red roses, and the laurel wreath have become cherished traditions of Ursuline’s graduation. Students curtsy, mark their victory over learning with their laurel wreath, and receive their diplomas. This special day marks their official induction into a Laurel Legacy of over 8,000 women who have graduated from Ursuline Academy.
Senior Mother-Daughter Luncheon
Graduation week is a special time at Ursuline, and this event is one of the reasons why! Graduating seniors and their mothers are invited to this special luncheon to celebrate the ending of their time at Ursuline and cherish memories made along the way.
Symposium
Ursuline's bi-annual Symposium celebrates our acclaimed alumnae and creates opportunities for students to engage with distinguished professionals in diverse careers. This event capitalizes on the power of the Laurel Legacy to connect Ursuline women—past, present, and future—to enhance leadership skills, foster professional relationships, and share insights across generations.
Kairos
Kairos, a Greek term meaning the appointed time or God’s time, is a three-day overnight retreat program held at the Jesuit Spiritual Center in Milford. Ursuline Academy was the first all-girls school in Cincinnati to offer this meaningful retreat, which many alumnae consider a pivotal faith experience. The Kairos retreat is led by student teams, with supervision from faculty and staff. Focus is on God, self, and others. Kairos is the final retreat at Ursuline and culminates the student’s entire retreat experience.
Senior Polo Signing
On the last day of classes senior year, the graduating class decorates their white uniform polo shirts to showcase their next destination. Classmates sign each other’s polo shirts and mark the completion of their time at Ursuline Academy, a bittersweet and memorable experience.
Father Daughter Dance
Each spring, students head out for a night of laughter, dancing, and fun with their dads for the annual father-daughter dance. This unforgettable night, sponsored by the Dad’s Club, includes a can’t-miss choreographed dance by the senior class dads, a cherished memory to cap off their Ursuline experience.