Ursuline Academy of Dallas is pleased to announce the appointment of Kayla Brown as its next Principal
Ursuline Academy of Dallas is pleased to announce the appointment of Kayla Brown as its next principal, effective July 1, 2025. Ms. Brown, who previously served in various roles at Ursuline, will return to the school after serving as the principal at John Paul II High School (JPII) for three years.
“It is with deep joy, gratitude, and a sense of calling that I humbly accept the role as the next principal
of Ursuline Academy. Returning to Ursuline feels like coming home in the most profound way, as this
community has been a foundational part of my journey of faith and leadership. I feel incredibly blessed
to be back among a community that has always felt like family,” said Ms. Brown.
After beginning her career in education in public school, Ms. Brown joined the Ursuline Social Studies faculty in 2007. She next transitioned to administrative leadership at Ursuline in 2013, first as Assistant Dean of Students and later as Dean of Students, a role she held for eight years. During her tenure, Ms. Brown was instrumental in enhancing the student experience in many ways, including implementing the Grade Dean model for the Dean of Students office, revamping and growing the Advisory program, and helping to build out the Seminar programming for freshmen and upper grade levels. She has served as principal of John Paul II High School for the past two years, further strengthening her reputation as a Catholic-school leader committed to academic excellence and student growth.
"Today, with great joy, we announce that we will welcome back a beloved member of the Ursuline community to serve as our new principal," said Ursuline President Dr. Andrea Shurley. "As a former social studies teacher and Dean of Students, Kayla brought warmth, wisdom, and a deep commitment to our mission of Serviam. Her return to Ursuline is a testament to her passion for empowering young women and her dedication to academic excellence and servant leadership. We are confident that Kayla will continue to nurture the traditions we cherish while guiding our school into an exciting new chapter of growth and innovation."
Ms. Brown holds a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education – Social Studies from Louisiana State University, a Master of Liberal Arts from Southern Methodist University, and a Catholic School Leadership Graduate Certificate from Creighton University.
“I am committed to working closely with every member of this community—our students, parents, faculty, staff, and alumnae—to strengthen and nurture our relationships, founded on the values we hold dear. My prayer is that we will continue to create a vibrant environment where every young woman can grow in wisdom, courage, and compassion, developing her gifts to serve others in the spirit of St. Angela Merici.,” said Ms. Brown.
Her appointment follows a comprehensive six-month national search process led by The Education Group (TEG). The process included:
• A confidential survey distributed in May to Ursuline community members along with several focus group sessions to gather input on priorities for the role and desired qualifications.
• Initial candidate identification and interviews conducted over the summer.
• Semi-finalist interviews with an interview team comprised of Ursuline administrators and a member of the Academy Board of Trustees in September.
• Finalist campus visits where candidates met with trustees, administrators, faculty, students, and parents, each providing valuable feedback.
"We are deeply grateful to all the members of our Ursuline community who participated in the Principal Search process," said Dr. Shurley. "I also want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Elizabeth Smith for her exemplary service, dedicated professionalism, and tremendous contributions as Interim Principal this year."
Founded in 1874, Ursuline Academy of Dallas is an independent Catholic college preparatory school for young women sponsored by the Ursuline Sisters. The mission of Ursuline Academy is the total development of the individual student through spiritual formation, intellectual growth, service to others, and building of community.