LEARN FRENCH WITH US
The Alliance Française de Houston, part of a worldwide network founded in Paris in 1883, is a privately funded 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. There exist today over 800 Alliances in 132 countries. The US network of Alliances Françaises is the largest in the world with 107 Alliances, 73 of which, like Alliance Française de Houston, offer French classes based on the internationally recognized standards of the Alliance Française de Paris. In 2015, the US Alliance network had over 24,000 students for a total of 500,000 worldwide.
The Alliance Française de Houston offers not only comprehensive language instruction in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere but also a varied and dynamic cultural experience. Members enjoy French art and photography exhibits, receptions, and concerts, and have access to our library, as well as discounts on our French language classes. Each year, the Alliance awards scholarships for study in France to Houston-area university students. We are affiliated with the Alliance Française de Paris, the Fondation Alliance Française, the Federation of Alliance Françaises USA, and the US General Delegation.
OUR HISTORY
The Alliance Française is an institution founded in 1883 and which is present in 132 countries, with more than 800 establishments. It brings together more than 500,000 students around the world.
The Network of Alliances Françaises in the United States is the leading network in the world with, in 2016, 107 Alliances, of which 73 offer French courses. In addition, the American network welcomed more than 24,000 students in 2015.
OUR APPROACH
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Be Kind
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Be Respectful
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Be Responsible
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Work Hard
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Have Fun
Today's Fondation des Alliance Françaises
The Alliance Française de Houston is proud to be affiliated with the Fondation des Alliances Françaises and the Federation of Alliances Françaises USA.
Known as the Alliance Française de Paris until 2020, the Fondation des Alliances Françaises provides oversight to its vast network of Alliances Françaises in over 100 countries.
The Federation of Alliances Françaises USA, founded in 1902, organizes national conferences, provides grants, and supports all U.S. chapters with resources and publications.
Timeline of Alliance Française de Houston: Celebrating French Language and Culture
Alliance Française is founded in Paris with the mission to promote the French language and culture abroad, laying the foundation for a global network of cultural exchange.
1883
1890
Mary Hale, an undergraduate at West Kentucky College, crosses paths with Edgar Odell Lovett, sparking a journey of shared interests and admiration for French culture.
Mary Hale marries Edgar Odell Lovett, who had recently joined the faculty at Princeton University. Their shared passion for French culture begins to blossom.
1898
1900
The couple spends a transformative year in France, kindling a lifelong fascination with the elegance and artistry of the French language and traditions.
Edgar Odell Lovett is appointed as the founding President of Rice University based on the recommendation of Woodrow Wilson, then President of Princeton.
1908
1910
Mrs. Lovett and her daughter Adelaide Lovett (Baker) embark on numerous trips to France. Adelaide, fluent in French from childhood, later attends Sorbonne University.
Mary Hale Lovett is elected to the board of directors of the Houston Art League. Albert Leon Guerard, professor of French at Rice, serves as Director from 1915-1916.
1914
1919
The Lovett residence at 427 Lovett Boulevard is built, becoming a cornerstone of their life dedicated to promoting French culture in Houston.
Alliance Française of Houston is founded by the visionary Mary Hale Lovett, establishing a cultural beacon for the French language and heritage in the city.
1923
1934
Schlumberger Well Surveying Corporation is established in Houston, further enriching the cultural landscape of the city.
Edgar Odell Lovett is awarded the Legion of Honor of France, a testament to his contributions to the promotion of French culture and education.
1938
1941
Mr. Paul Charrin, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Schlumberger Corp., begins his first term as Alliance board president, setting the stage for significant growth.
Edgar Odell Lovett retires from Rice University after serving as President for an impressive 38 years.
1946
1947
John and Dominique de Menil arrive in Houston and become valued members of Alliance Française, nurturing the arts in the city.
Mary Hale Lovett passes away, leaving a lasting legacy of cultural passion and commitment to French language education.
1952
1958
The E.G. Leonardon Scholarship for Houston area students is established, fostering educational opportunities for the community.
Alliance Française is officially incorporated in Houston as a non-profit organization, solidifying its commitment to promoting the French language and culture.
1959
1962
Alliance French Language School is established, providing expert language instruction under the guidance of founder Michel Windland, a recipient of the French Ordre des Palmes Académiques.
Alliance moves to its current location at 427 Lovett Boulevard, a place that exudes the spirit of French culture, eventually becoming its permanent home.
1970
1973
Alliance Française de Houston celebrates its 50th anniversary, honoring Mary Hale Lovett's vision and presenting the Lovett Award to E.G. Leonardon for his exemplary leadership in initiating the scholarship program.
Eugene G. Leonardon is awarded the Legion of Honor of France, recognizing his outstanding contributions to fostering Franco-American relations.
1975
1989
Alliance Française de Houston joins the U.S. national committee in commemorating the Bicentennial of the French Revolution, celebrating France's rich history.
Alliance children's language classes and programs are initiated, nurturing the next generation of language learners and culture enthusiasts.
1990
Through the decades, Alliance Française de Houston has been a shining beacon of French language and culture in Texas, guided by the vision of its founders and embraced by a community of passionate Francophiles. Today, it continues to thrive as a place of cultural exploration, language learning, and celebration of all things French.