Julie Cullen, a 1996 graduate of Villa Maria Academy, still carries the Victor spirit with her every morning when she walks into her second-grade classroom at Fairview Elementary School. What began as playful “school” games in childhood has grown into a lifelong calling shaped by faith, friendship, and the lessons learned on Villa’s campus.

Cullen’s favorite memories from her time at Villa Maria are steeped in the joy of shared experiences. She lights up recalling Sports Day, Mary’s Day celebrations, Lip Sync contests, and the Saturday Night Live-style assemblies that brought the whole school together. 

“My favorite memories are rooted in the time I shared with friends at Villa,” she said, “particularly during those special events… along with my involvement on the swim and soccer teams.” 

The bonds formed during those years, she explains, created a foundation of friendship and fun that still influences how she builds community in her own classroom today.

That sense of community was deepened by Villa’s Catholic identity. 

“Following Jesus’ example continues to guide my principles today,” Cullen said. “I seek to lead and teach by modeling a character rooted in His teachings.” 

The values of compassion, service, and integrity she absorbed at Villa Maria now shape every decision she makes as an educator, whether she’s helping a struggling reader or celebrating a small behavioral victory.

One teacher in particular left an indelible mark. Mrs. Walker, her English instructor and Student Council advisor, pushed Cullen to reach her full potential at Villa. 

“Her leadership, organization, drive, support, and intelligence were a constant source of inspiration,” Cullen said.

Cullen’s path to teaching wasn’t immediate. As a little girl she always played the teacher role in pretend school, but it wasn’t until college that the dream crystallized into a career. Villa’s rigorous academics and extracurricular opportunities helped prepare her well. Through challenging classes, sports, volunteer work, and close relationships with faculty, she learned patience, organization, collaboration, and the power of leading by example—all skills she now relies on daily while guiding young learners.

When asked about Villa Maria’s 2016 merger with Cathedral Preparatory School, Cullen sad, “I truly loved my time at Villa Maria Academy. I appreciated the many opportunities for leadership that attending an all-girls school provided.” 

While saddened by the changes, she hopes today’s students continue to feel the same traditions, warmth, and supportive atmosphere that defined her experience at Villa. 

In her second-grade classroom, Cullen finds daily delight. 

“I love the kids!” she said. “They are sweet, funny, and overall they love to learn, which makes it fun to teach them. They challenge me to work hard.” 

The most rewarding moments, she said, come when she watches a child grow. “It’s very rewarding when my students improve. Watching children develop and being a part of that experience is a gift.”

Like any teacher, Cullen has faced hurdles: oversized classes, students with widely varying needs, new curricula to master, and the endless planning that fills evenings and weekends. Yet her background in competitive sports and academics at Villa taught her resilience. 

“My background in sports and competitive academics has helped me to work hard and to persevere,” she said.

To any Villa Maria or Cathedral Prep student thinking about becoming a teacher, Cullen offers practical wisdom: “Volunteer with younger kids, pay attention to teachers you admire, and get comfortable with organization and managing time.”