the Micheline Le Gall (MLG) Endowed Scholarship

The Micheline Le Gall Endowed Scholarship honors a life devoted to teaching, culture, and human connection.

Born in Paris in 1930, Micheline’s early years—marked by loss and wartime hardship—shaped her resilience and quiet strength. A chance encounter in a Paris café led her to Boston, where she discovered her calling as a French teacher and met her husband, Jean Le Gall, a former Resistance member and engineer. Together, they built a life in Palo Alto, deeply engaged in the French American community. While Jean pursued a distinguished scientific career, Micheline became a central figure in French education. She founded the Palo Alto Alliance Française, inspiring students with her warmth, elegance, and ability to bring language to life. Her teaching extended beyond grammar, she transmitted culture, confidence, and connection. She also mentored educators through the American Association of Teachers of French, helping shape a community of teachers. Micheline was the treasurer of the Northern California AATF chapter for 25 years, and was a champion of the Grand Concours/National French Contest, especially the FLES* Contest. She and her family served as the inspiration for artwork used on the FLES* Contest:

 Created by her daughter Carole with the AATF, this endowed scholarship continues Micheline’s life’s work. By supporting the development of French teachers, it ensures that her spirit lives on across classrooms, generations, and communities through those who carry language and culture forward. This scholarship offers funds to offset costs associated with attending professional development opportunities.

Apply here