Gala 2026: The Lycée Celebrates “The Art of Perspective” with Christian Louboutin

On Thursday, May 8, 2026, the Lycée Français de New York community gathered at the Waldorf Astoria for its iconic Gala, an annual event dedicated to raising essential funds in support of the school’s mission. Under the theme “L’Art de la Perspective — Expanding Horizons,” with designer Christian Louboutin as honoree, the evening celebrated the cultural openness and collective commitment that define the school’s strength.

More than 750 parents, alumni, friends, and staff members came together to support the future of the school, driven by the Lycée’s Development team, led by Caroline Naralasetty, and the event’s co-chairs: Dasha Zhukova Niarchos, Grace Fuller Marroquin, and Charlotte Santo Domingo.

Christian Louboutin: Honoring a Global Citizen

This year, the Gala honored a visionary creator and global citizen: Mr. Christian Louboutin. From his Parisian roots to opening his first boutique in New York, Mr. Louboutin has built a global brand founded on craftsmanship, creativity, and cultural fluency—qualities that perfectly reflect what the Lycée strives to cultivate in its students.

Head of School Jérémie Bourdon highlighted his exceptional career:

Nurtured by an early fascination with world cultures, he transformed craft into art and built a career defined by creativity, curiosity, and generosity. His life’s work reflects the very spirit of ‘The Art of Perspective’: the ability to look beyond the familiar, embrace different viewpoints, and give back. By honoring him, we celebrate the values we strive to instill in our students every day.

In accepting the Charles de Ferry de Fontnouvelle award, given to individuals who reflect the Lycée’s mission and values, Christian Louboutin shared an intimate reflection on the necessity of giving back:

When I had my two daughters, now 11, my perception of the world shifted. It deepened my sense of fascination and gratitude for the extraordinary luck I have had throughout my life. Luck — la chance — is a privilege, and when you have it, it should not remain yours alone. By sharing it, you multiply it for others.

Record-Breaking Support for the Lycée’s Mission

Another major highlight of the evening was a live paddle raise led by auctioneer C.K. Swett to benefit the Lycée’s mission, specifically the Financial Aid Fund. As the event’s co-chairs noted:

Every day, our children learn alongside peers from different cultures, languages, and backgrounds; this experience has shaped not only how they learn but how they view the world—with curiosity, empathy, and respect. Such diversity does not happen by chance. The scholarship fund we are supporting tonight is essential in making sure that students from a wide range of backgrounds can be here, contributing their voices and experiences.

Thanks to the extraordinary mobilization of our community, Gala 2026 inspired generous contributions that will allow the Lycée to maintain the socio-economic diversity that enriches its community and continue providing an education of excellence for every student.

Students at the Heart of the Evening

The theme of perspective came to life through the students’ own talents. Guests admired tables adorned with original centerpieces created by Elementary students under the guidance of Primary art teacher Mireille Miller.

Noelle Louis (Grade 7) captivated the audience with a masterful rendition of Edith Piaf’s “L’Hymne à l’amour,” followed by Léa Poupin (Grade 12), who delivered a soulful version of Adele’s “Rolling in the Deep,” accompanied by Secondary music teacher Will Simbol on piano.

To close the program, Grade 12 students Zayd Amro, Marie Chabran, and Simon Haiat shared how the Lycée has shaped their lives. Zayd remarked: “The Lycée didn’t just prepare me for what comes next. It made me who I am.” For Head of School Jérémie Bourdon, these journeys illustrate the success of the school’s pedagogy:

Just as an artist uses perspective to create depth and meaning on a canvas, Lycée students learn to bring nuance, insight, and humanity to their understanding of a complex world. Across languages, cultures, and curricula, they discover that to expand horizons is not only to go further, but to see more clearly, think more broadly, engage courageously with differences, and boldly imagine what is possible.

Tributes to Dedicated Parents

The evening was also marked by an emotional opening speech from Dean Amro, President of the Board of Trustees, who will step down at the end of the school year. Jérémie Bourdon honored his 17 years of commitment, highlighting his remarkable dedication and unwavering generosity since joining the Board in 2012.

Mr. Bourdon also expressed the school’s deep gratitude to Amira Salaam Amro and Fadwa Robb, Vice President of the Board. Their dedication to the Development Committee for over a decade has significantly contributed to the school’s growth and the ongoing success of our Galas. Mr. Bourdon also thanked Development Committee Chair Marissa Deladerrière, Mariana Abbadi, and Tihtina Mersie for their commitment and essential role in shaping the success of Gala 2026.

The Lycée Français de New York extends its sincerest thanks to everyone who, through their presence and support, helped make Gala 2026 a resounding success for the future of our school and for our students.