At , leadership means more than holding a title or position – it is an act of faith, rooted in service, humility, and love. This vision of leadership comes to life through the school’s Ambassadors Program, where students are encouraged to model servant leadership in their daily lives and in their school community.
Ambassadors are not only student leaders – they are mentors, role models, and visible signs of what it means to live out the Gospel call to serve others. Choosing to be an Assumption Ambassador is a response to the Christian call to put others before self, to lift others up, and to lead not for recognition, but for the good of the community.
This year, Assumption’s Ambassadors took part in a transformative leadership training experience at the Ontario Educational Leadership Centre (OELC). Over the course of their trip, students engaged in team-building activities, reflection, and shared experiences designed to deepen their understanding of leadership as a vocation, not just a set of skills. They explored what it means to lead with compassion, to listen with empathy, and to serve with joy – mirroring the model of servant leadership demonstrated by Jesus.
“There is a quiet kind of magic in watching students grow into leaders,” noted Ms. Marek, Ambassadors Advisor and Religion & Humanities Department Head at Assumption CSS. “At OELC, our group learned not only from the facilitators, but from one another, forming a community rooted in respect, service, and care. What stood out most was their courage to move beyond what felt familiar, their openness to listen and collaborate, and the way they wove laughter and friendship into real teamwork. Our Ambassadors returned to Assumption with a stronger sense of purpose, ready to share the gifts they discovered in themselves for the good of our school community. We couldn’t be prouder of the way they rose to the challenge together.”
The training reinforced that leadership in a Catholic school is more than organizing events or guiding peers – it is a ministry. Ambassadors learned that their role is to nurture connection, promote justice, and help foster a welcoming, inclusive environment where every student feels they belong.
“One of the most important parts of leadership is guiding your peers, and recognizing when you need to take charge. However leadership is so much more than this,” said Molly Herod, Student Ambassador. “Surrounded by classmates, staff, and friends, we learned that being a leader is collaboration, taking care of others, and learning to step back when needed. Training to be an ambassador gave me and my friends many valuable lessons, not only about helping grade 9s, but about the tools that will help us through every stage of life.”
As the Assumption Ambassadors return from their training, they carry with them a renewed sense of mission – to lead with love, act with integrity, and serve with joy. Their commitment reflects the essence of Catholic education: forming leaders who are guided by faith and dedicated to making a difference in the lives of others.
“Our Ambassadors had the opportunity to step outside their comfort zones and grow in confidence and character,” commented Patrick Brophy, Principal of Assumption CSS. “Their experience at OELC gave them a strong foundation to lead with thoughtfulness, humility, and care for others. Throughout September, I have already seen the positive impact of their leadership at Assumption in the way they build trust, foster belonging, and help others feel seen and supported.”
At its heart, the Ambassadors program at Assumption Catholic Secondary School embodies the HCDSB Multi-Year Strategic Plan (MYSP) priorities of Believing and Belonging. It is an example of faith in action: students growing in their Catholic identity while building strong, inclusive communities.
