“The students wrote messages on papers that they folded in origami hummingbirds as part of the UN campaign. But the end result of their production was so incredibly beautiful that the panels are now permanently exposed in a meeting room on the 29th floor of the main UN Secretariat building. Every time I have a meeting in that room, I get to think of these incredible kids and that wonderful school.”
Q: What is your family background, and what languages are spoken at home?
I am French, and my husband Eric is American. The kids and I communicate in French. Eric and the kids speak in English. All four of us communicate in English, with some French mixed in. My family background is more complex, with my mother and her family coming from Egypt and Lebanon. Growing up, I spoke French with a splash of Arabic and a few words of English here and there.
Q: What motivated you to choose a bilingual French-American school for Alice and Olivia?
We want Alice and Olivia to have the option to study in France or elsewhere in Europe after they graduate from high school. Having dual citizenship provides them with many opportunities in both the United States and Europe. We want them to have the degree and the language skills to match these possibilities if they choose to pursue them.
Q: How do you feel the bilingual education at the FAA is preparing Alice and Olivia for future opportunities?
The FAA goes beyond languages, even if that’s a really important piece, it’s a whole package. Through the traditions, the songs, the stories, the cultural heritage, they get a more immersive experience that goes beyond knowing the French language. This is the best way they can be exposed to the French culture and traditions while living in New York. My hope is that it would allow a more seamless transition should they decide to move to France for a while or forever.
Q: Can you share a memorable moment, activity, or achievement Alice and Olivia have experienced at the FAA?
The end-of-the-year show is always an incredible moment for everyone. It is a truly impressive production, but it goes beyond that. The whole school comes together, and the excitement builds up for weeks leading up to the show. It’s a true school community project; the teachers pour hours into it, everyone gives it 100%, and it shows! The show itself is always amazing; the kids are so well-prepared, but beyond that, it truly has a heart and soul. The show is a true labor of love, which perfectly represents the school and what makes it so special.
Q: Can you share some of the activities your family enjoys together, such as hobbies, volunteer work, or sports teams you follow? How do these activities bring your family closer or create special moments together?
Our happiest place as a family is the beach, where we can stay for many hours, and everyone is happy. We also love exploring New York City and take advantage of everything it has to offer. I love seeing our kids walk around Central Park or other incredible NYC jewels, having no idea how lucky they are. At home, I feel lucky that Alice and Olivia share my passion for reading and books, puzzles, and arts & crafts.
Q: What are some interesting stories or fun facts about your family?
Eric and I met at the Taj Mahal in India. We were both backpacking by ourselves throughout Southeast Asia. And we were both waiting for the same gate to open at the Taj on a very early winter morning. The rest is history.
Q: What are some of your favorite FAA memories?
There are many. But I have loved having my work at the United Nations and my kids’ world at school collide. I have presented the work of the UN, particularly on the Sustainable Development Goals, to the students a few times, their questions never cease to amaze me. It was also really great to have some of the students come to the UN for a guided tour and help involve the school around a UN project for World Water Day in 2023. The students wrote messages on papers that they folded in origami hummingbirds as part of the UN campaign. But the end result of their production was so incredibly beautiful that the panels are now permanently exposed in a meeting room on the 29th floor of the main UN Secretariat building. Every time I have a meeting in that room, I get to think of these incredible kids and that wonderful school.
