| Once through through the General Assembly's security and coat check, one was bedazzled by the brilliance and glamor of the gilded walls, enormous chandeliers and rich curtains of the Hôtel de Lassay, now the residence for the National Assembly's president. Built in the early 1700s for Armand de Madaillan, marquis de Lassay, this building shares a colorful history with the adjacent building--the Palace de Bourbon. After the 250 guests arrived, enjoyed some champagne and hors d'oeuvres, everyone was called to dinner at tables decorated with historical names related to Harvard. HCF president Philippe Le Corre said a brief welcome and then introduced Député du Puy-de-Dôme for the UMP governing party and Chairman of the France-USA Friendship Group at the Assemblée Nationale, Louis Giscard d'Estaing. Representing Assembly president Accoyer, Mr. Giscard d'Estaing spoke eloquently of the connections between France and America, leading graciously into president of Harvard Drew Gilpin Faust's speech. Faust focused on three aspects of breaking down "boundaries:" improving undergraduate access to Harvard; transdisciplinary dialogue and learning on campus; and intellectual outreach and openness to the world beyond campus. Between the glittery setting, the titillating speeches and conversations and delectable nourishment, it was a sublime evening. |
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* DATE: Wednesday, November 24, 2010.
TIME: 7:30-10:30 pm
PLACE: Hôtel de Lassay, Salons de la Présidence. 128, rue de l'Université. 75007 Paris
MORE INFO: Capacity limited to 250 participants. Advance registration is required and must be received by November 17. Registration fees are nonrefundable. A valid ID must be shown for security check. Dress code : Business -- Jacket and tie required for men
COST: Alumni € 98.00
Spouses and Guests € 98.00
Harvard Alumni Clubs Members: HCF, HBSCF or Arthur Sachs dues-paying members € 82.00
Recent Graduates (College ‘05–‘10) Only for current or former undergraduates of Harvard College € 51.00
RSVP: http://fr.amiando.com/Drew_Faust_Paris.html
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On this crisp Fall night, over 50 Harvard people and members of other University Alumni associations in Paris came to the Jeu de Paume building. We heard a history of the game and welcoming words by HCF president Philippe Le Corre. Organized by Kai Carver, along with Jeu de Paume club president and Harvard alum Wesley Johnson, Jr., the evening allowed the club to show off some of their new renovations. 
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