Ursuline Academy is proud to announce that the recipient of this year's Alvaro O’Byrne and Maria Teresa Malvehy O’Byrne Faculty Chair Award is Nubia Aguiar, ECLC Fine Arts, Foreign Language, and Music Teacher. We recognized Nubia at the Lily House and ECLC Chapel and May Crowning on Friday, May 8, 2026. Some of the notes from your nominations stand out as truly embodying her spirit, passion, and teaching style:

The students are beyond curious when they walk into her classroom. She really opens them up to try new things in a safe and supportive environment.

Whenever she displays the artwork of the students, I'm always blown away by the artistry and creativity that goes into it.

Her demeanor is very calm, gentle, and welcoming. These traits are very important for students to feel safe around her in order to be their genuine selves in what they create.

The Alvaro O'Byrne and Maria Teresa Malvehy O'Byrne Faculty Chair Fund honors the enduring legacy of Alvaro and Maria Teresa O'Byrne, who believed in the transformative power of a faith-based, rigorous education. It celebrates educators who inspire intellectual curiosity, foster a love of learning, and demonstrate excellence in teaching.

Gifts to this endowed fund provide lasting support for faculty through annual awards, professional development opportunities, and recognition of innovative teaching practices, ensuring a vibrant and enriching learning environment for generations to come. This fund was established by Margarita O'Byrne Curtis ’69 to celebrate her parents' values and the inspiration she found under the guidance of the Ursuline sisters and teachers.