St. Ursula Academy graduates share a bond—a sisterhood that remains across years, distances, and life journeys. As her ten-year reunion approaches, Kendall Fails ’15 realizes this fact. Kendall attended Springfield Middle School before enrolling at SUA. During her freshman year, she was surrounded by a supportive community that encouraged her to pursue her interests. As the president of the Afro-Club in 2014-2015 and the captain of the Varsity bowling team, Kendall was already building skills that would later help guide her professional journey.

Looking back on her time at SUA, Kendall fondly remembers her English teacher, Mrs. Rode, who left a lasting impact on her. Mrs. Rode’s lessons went beyond grammar and literature, as she often reminded her students to “believe in decaffeinated tea and chastity.” This blend of humor and life wisdom helped Kendall develop a strong sense of self, and she credits the support of teachers like Mrs. Rode with giving her the courage to believe in herself.

After graduation, Kendall attended Alabama A&M University, a historically Black university (HBCU) in Huntsville, Alabama, where she majored in mechanical engineering. Alabama became not only a place to study but a place to grow, make lifelong friendships, and face life’s toughest challenges. Following the passing of her beloved grandfather in 2017, Kendall found herself struggling. But, with encouragement from her family and her faith, she persevered with resilience.

Now living in Tuscaloosa, Kendall has found a home in the heart of Alabama’s football culture, where she roots for the Crimson Tide. Her current role as a Battery Special Handler for Mercedes-Benz is one that many could find surprising. Kendall is responsible for shipping high-voltage electric batteries and automotive parts internationally from Mercedes-Benz’s facility in Vance, Alabama. Her work is vital to keeping the wheels turning on a global scale.

Kendall has discovered through her journey that life isn’t always easy, but each challenge brings an opportunity to learn and grow. Moving eight hours away from family and friends, navigating new friendships and losses, and even facing a near-death experience have all shaped her character and resolve. “No matter what you do in life, good or bad, you are in charge of your own destiny,” Kendall shares. “I overcame a lot of obstacles to get where I am today.” Her words serve as a reminder to all of us that while life may present hardships, it is within our power to steer our path forward.

Kendall’s advice to current SUA students? Embrace the journey. She encourages young women considering SUA to take a tour, meet new people, and be unafraid to start anew. “High school isn’t all about social popularity,” she says. “It’s about education and discovering who you are.” And when she decided to attend SUA alongside her friends Tyla and Sania, Kendall knew she had found a lifelong community.