NEW YORK.-The French Heritage society, an American non-profit that was founded in 1982 to ensure the survival of the architectural patrimony of France for future generations, and to support the rich French legacy in America, has appointed a new chairman for its board of directors, Elizabeth F. Stribling. On making the announcement, French Heritage Society President Princess Marie-Sol de La Tour d’Auvergne declared, “We are grateful for the strong leadership and association of friends which Elizabeth brings to French Heritage Society, in both the United States and in France. Elizabeth has been a vital member of our Board and an active participant in our many programs over the years. She is a wonderful ‘Ambassador’ for our organization; and, indeed, for both our countries.”

French Heritage Society will celebrate its 25th Anniversary in France in October, 2007, paying tribute to the friendship and enduring ties between the United States and France, and commemorating the special anniversaries of American founding fathers Washington, Jefferson, and Franklin, as well as Lafayette. An exclusive trip has been organized that will feature privileged access to some of the country’s most beautiful, private estates and wineries, hosted by their owners, and will culminate in a grand Gala and Ball at the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte.

Over its 25 years, the organization has grown to encompass 14 Chapters across the United States, including Arizona; Atlanta; Boston; Dallas; New Orleans; New York; North Carolina; Northern California; Northern Ohio; Palm Beach; Philadelphia; Santa Barbara; Southern California; and Washington, as well as a Chapter in Paris. French Heritage Society has contributed to over 400 restoration grants and provided more than 10 million dollars, including matching funds, to projects throughout France, as well as to those which reflect France’s historic influence in the United States. FHS has also provided more than 250 educational grants in both countries, sponsoring exchanges for students, architects, artisans, and museum curators.