Staff

Elodie Ricolfi has been serving as Executive Director of the Alliance Française of Houston, Texas since August 2023. She brings a strong background in nonprofit leadership, having held senior roles across several Houston-based organizations, and previously served on the board of the Alliance Française of Houston.

In her current position, Elodie is guiding the organization through a phase of strategic growth, tackling key challenges related to facilities, programming, and governance. Her approach emphasizes long-term sustainability while expanding the Alliance’s reach and impact through clear priorities and thoughtful planning.

In 2025, she joined the board of the Alliance Française National Federation USA, contributing to the development of the network at the national level.

Kim Parker, Director of Philanthropy, brings more than 25 years of development experience to her role at Alliance Francaise de Houston.  Her experience includes fundraising leadership positions at a variety of nonprofits, including Holocaust Museum Houston, Space Center Houston, South Texas College of Law/Houston, and the American Bar Association.Kim has a passion for building donor-centered philanthropy programs “from the ground up” through donor recognition societies, communications, and volunteer and donor engagement strategies. Kim has a Bachelor of Arts in English and French from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Master of Arts in Foreign Affairs from the University of Virginia.

philanthropy@alliancehouston.org

I am a Houston-based digital marketing professional and content creator, born and raised in Mexico City, passionate about connecting people through culture, language, and meaningful experiences.

I lead digital strategy, content, and brand partnerships, with a focus on storytelling and multi-platform campaigns.

As the founder of a bilingual lifestyle platform, I have built and managed a recognizable brand known for high-quality content and authentic audience engagement.

As a student of the Alliance Française, I have also developed a genuine connection to its mission and community. I bring creativity and a thoughtful, organized approach to every project.

marketing@alliancehouston.org

I was born and raised in Venezuela and have been living in the United States for almost ten years. During this time, I graduated from the University of Houston, where I earned a BA in French and a BA in Spanish.
I am deeply passionate about languages, and my journey with French began at the Alliance Française of Valencia, Venezuela. Since then, I haven’t stopped learning and exploring the French language and culture, which have become an essential part of who I am.
As Events Coordinator at the Alliance Française of Houston, I work to promote French and Francophone language and culture through cultural events, lectures, exhibitions, and community gatherings. I love meeting people who share a similar passion for languages and culture, as well as connecting with individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences.
I truly believe that learning a language goes far beyond grammar and vocabulary — it opens minds, builds bridges between cultures, and creates meaningful connections.
Outside of work, I enjoy staying active through swimming, tennis, and beach volleyball, traveling to new destinations, and reading in the three languages I speak. Looking ahead, I hope to learn Italian and continue growing as a polyglot.

events@alliancehouston.org

Juan Martinez is a seasoned language educator with over 28 years of experience in higher education, specializing in language instruction and academic leadership. He served as the coordinator of a vibrant language department at a community college in Texas, where he managed a team of 10 language instructors and oversaw programs in German, Spanish, French, and Chinese.

Juan holds a Bachelor’s degree in Languages, a Master’s in Literature and Linguistics, and a Master of Liberal Arts in Art History, all earned from respected American universities. His academic background reflects a deep commitment to both language pedagogy and cultural studies.

His professional development includes two training programs at CAVILAM – Alliance Française, a renowned center for French language instruction. He also studied French abroad at the Université Laval in Québec and the Alliance Française de Paris, where he earned the Diplôme de Langue Française, further enriching his expertise in Francophone language and culture.

Juan is passionate about fostering inclusive, high-quality language education and continues to advocate for programs that empower learners through linguistic and cultural fluency.

programs@alliancehouston.org

I was born and raised in the southeast of France, surrounded by vineyards and lavender fields. I moved to Houston in 2014 — what was meant to be a short stay quickly became home, and I now have two little Texans of my own.

With a Master’s degree in FLE (Français Langue Étrangère), I have been teaching at the Alliance Française of Houston since 2016. Over the years, I’ve developed a deep passion for teaching French to children and for creating programs that make learning both fun and meaningful.

As Pedagogical Coordinator for Children’s Programs, I select and implement the teaching methods used in our children’s classes and develop new ideas for creative workshops that bring French language and culture to life. My goal is to make French come alive through games, songs, stories, cultural projects, and hands-on experiences that spark curiosity and creativity.

I believe that learning a language is not just about words and grammar — it’s about discovering a whole new world. Through our programs, I aim to help children build confidence, develop a love for languages, and feel connected to French culture in an authentic, joyful way.

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy traveling, dancing, reading, and spending time with my family and friends.

youthprograms@alliancehouston.org
exams@alliancehouston.org

Born and raised in Paris, I’ve called Houston home since 2006. Deeply passionate about the French language, culture, and history, I love sharing the richness of my Parisian heritage with others who are curious about France. At the Alliance Française, I enjoy meeting our students and members, and working closely with our wonderful volunteers who help bring our events to life. Outside the Alliance, I’m inspired by art and history, and I love exploring the world and discovering new cultures. As a true citizen of the world, I find joy in building bridges between people and celebrating our different cultures. 

admin@alliancehouston.org

Bonjour !

Je m’appelle Maelann, but people call me Mae. I was born in Annecy and raised between the beautiful cities of Annecy and Bordeaux before moving to the U.S. seven years ago. 
I'm currently a student at the University of Houston, studying Business with a passion for community, language, and culture.

Being part of the Alliance Française feels like home, and I’m proud to share my love for French language and culture with others here in Houston.

intern@alliancehouston.org