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.


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.

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Timeline of the Alliance Française of Houston

Through the decades, the Alliance Française of 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.

1890

Mary Hale meets Edgar Odell Lovett, sparking a shared love for French culture.

1893

Alliance Française is founded in Paris to promote French language and culture globally.

1898

Mary Hale marries Lovett, who joins Princeton. Their passion for French culture grows.

1900

The couple spends a transformative year in France, deepening their admiration.

1908

Lovett becomes Rice University’s founding President on Woodrow Wilson’s recommendation.

1910

Mrs. Lovett and Adelaide travel to France. Adelaide later attends the Sorbonne.

1914

Mary joins Houston Art League. Guerard becomes French professor at Rice.

1919

The Lovett residence at 427 Lovett Boulevard is built – a French cultural hub.

1923

Mary Hale Lovett founds Alliance Française of Houston.

1934

Schlumberger establishes a presence in Houston, enriching its cultural scene.

1938

Lovett is awarded the Legion of Honor for promoting French culture and education.

1941

Paul Charrin begins his first term as Alliance Board President.

1946

Lovett retires after 38 years at Rice University.

1947

The de Menils arrive in Houston and support the Alliance’s mission.

1952

Mary Hale Lovett passes, leaving a legacy of cultural impact.

1958

The E.G. Leonardon Scholarship is established for Houston-area students.

1959

The Alliance is officially incorporated in Houston as a non-profit organization.

1962

The Alliance French Language School is founded by Michel Windland.

1970

The Alliance moves to 427 Lovett Boulevard, its permanent home.

1973

50th Anniversary. Lovett Award given to E.G. Leonardon.

1975

Eugene Leonardon receives the Legion of Honor of France.

1989

Alliance joins U.S. committee for the French Revolution Bicentennial.

1990

Children’s language programs begin, nurturing future Francophiles.

2023

100th Anniversary of the Alliance Française of Houston.

2024

First gala held, celebrating “100 Years of Sparkling Conversation.”

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Instructors & Staff

Our dedicated instructors and staff bring expertise, passion, and a deep love for French language and culture, creating an engaging and supportive learning environment for all students.

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Board Members

Our Board of Directors provides strategic guidance and leadership, helping to further the Alliance’s mission of promoting French language and culture in the Houston community.

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Patrons

Our valued patrons support the Alliance’s cultural and educational programs, playing a vital role in enriching Houston’s French-speaking and Francophile communities.

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Job Opportunities

Join our team! We seek passionate individuals committed to education and cultural exchange. Explore current opportunities in teaching, administration, and event coordination.

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Facilities Rental

Host your event in a French-inspired setting! Our elegant and centrally located facility is available for private and professional rentals.


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Policies

Our policies ensure a welcoming, respectful, and enriching environment for all. Review guidelines on class enrollment, refunds, conduct, and privacy.


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Sponsors & Partners

We proudly collaborate with local and international sponsors and partners who share our mission of cultural exchange and community engagement.


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Become a Member

Become a member of Alliance Française for exclusive offers, member events, discounts and more.

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Newsletter // Lettre d'informations

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