Decades of French International History, Together Again

It’s not often that decades of school history come together in one place. On Friday, September 25, French International had the special opportunity to do just that when former Head of School Jean-François Genay returned to campus for a day of reconnecting, reminiscing, and celebrating the community he helped shape.

The visit was made possible in part through another familiar face, former Head of School Pam Dreisin. After learning that Genay would be visiting Portland, Pam helped connect him with current school administrators to create an opportunity for the community to welcome him back.

Genay’s return included recording a segment for Web Radio and touring the Middle School, a building he hadn’t seen. He also spent time with current Head of School Scott Hardister and Pam, sharing stories and reflecting on their experiences leading the school. Despite serving in different eras, the three found plenty of common ground in the opportunities and challenges that come with leading a school community.

Later that afternoon, current and former faculty and staff, parents, trustees, and students gathered in the new Maternelle overlook for beverages and light bites, reconnecting with old friends and sharing memories of French International. Scott, Pam, and Genay each spoke about their experiences at the school and reflected on how it’s evolved. 

Genay served as Head of School from 1993 to 2000 and again from 2005 to 2007. During his tenure, French International moved to its current campus, and he helped lead the effort to establish the Middle School program, having a lasting impact on the school.

Pam followed as Head of School from 2007 to 2019, after serving the school in a variety of roles as a parent and trustee. During her tenure, the campus continued to expand, and she led the school as the Middle School capital campaign and construction got underway.

Today, the school continues to build on that foundation. The campus looks different, programs have evolved, and new generations of students and families have joined the community, but as Genay said, it is still a school built on love.

We are grateful to Genay and Pam for their leadership, their lasting contributions, and for returning to celebrate the past, present, and future of French International.