Ursuline Academy is ready to bring in its 300th year! We are grateful for the solid leadership and vision of our Director of Development & Alumnae, Régine René-Labrousse '01, last year in solidifying our needs. We also thank our Development Associate Thérèse Wegmann '78 and newer member Katie Rose McConnell for piloting the Gemstone Reunion Giving Program. We welcome Ann Ruffino as the Advancement Programs Manager, Farrell Matthews as the Advancement Data Coordinator, and Adam Askew as the Academy Event Logistics Coordinator.

Katie Rose McConnell is the founder of Lighthouse Strategies, a consulting firm helping nonprofits with strategic planning. Katie Rose brings nearly two decades of nonprofit experience, including years as Director of Advancement at her alma mater, Saint Scholastica Academy, and deep roots in Ursuline's history. 

Ann brings an eclectic background in entertainment, activity directing, and event management.  Born and raised in Colorado, Ann’s first career was as a professional singer, dancer, and actor. She earned a B.A. in Musical Theatre Performance from the University of Northern Colorado before continuing her entertainment career in Seattle, Washington.  Eventually, Ann felt called to a new journey as an Activity Director in senior living communities, where she spent the past 15 years creating meaningful programs and events. Most recently, she served in activity leadership roles at the Jewish Community Center and Lambeth House here in New Orleans.  Still a “newbie” to the New Orleans area, Ann is excited to learn more about Ursuline Academy’s incredible history and to support the alumnae who have played such an important role in its legacy.

Farrell brings a strong background in education management and operations. With experience overseeing productivity, quality control, and administrative processes, he is highly skilled in clerical operations, executive support, and back-office management. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Organizational Management and is committed to supporting the Advancement team through efficient data management and thoughtful collaboration. “I am thrilled to begin this new journey at Ursuline Academy and excited to embrace the many new experiences ahead with the institution.” -Farrell Matthews

Adam comes with a well-rounded background in event production, hospitality, and film and television. His professional experience includes several years producing content for television networks, working on dozens of film and television productions within the art and props departments, and coordinating large-scale events such as Sugar Bowl Fest on the New Orleans riverfront. Adam holds a bachelor’s degree in graphic design and brings strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and experience managing complex logistics. He is excited to support the Ursuline community by helping create welcoming, well-organized experiences that reflect the Academy’s mission and traditions. As the parent of a fourth-grade Ursuline student, Adam is especially pleased to serve a community that is already meaningful to his family. 

The Advancement team is ready to support Ursuline Academy and its alumnae to thrive!