Stéphanie Boulard, a professor of French in the School of Modern Languages, has been awarded the rank of Chevalier (Knight) of the French Order of Academic Palms. This prestigious distinction, conferred by the Consul General of France in Atlanta, Anne-Laure Desjonquères, recognizes Boulard’s outstanding scholarship and contributions to the advancement of French and Francophone education. 

“I am deeply honored to receive the rank of Chevalier of the French Order of Academic Palms," said Boulard. "This recognition is not just a personal achievement, but a testament to the profound impact of dedicated educators on the global stage. It also underscores the importance of advancing intercultural communication and excellence in education. I am deeply grateful for this recognition, which inspires me to continue fostering a passion for French and Francophone studies in my students.” 

Boulard is a specialist in French literature from the 19th century to the present and a recognized expert in the works of Victor Hugo. She is the author of the books Rouge Hugo (2014), Ego Hugo (2011), Ententes - À partir d'Hélène Cixous (2019), and Hugographies (2022), as well as over 40 articles and book chapters exploring the aesthetic and political dimensions of literary and artistic thought. 

In the classroom, Boulard’s teaching focuses on the role of literature, film, media, and art in telling stories of identity and singularity, in giving testimony of trauma and migration, and in exploring political, social, and cultural issues in France and the French-speaking world. 

She has designed over 20 courses at Georgia Tech, including a series of courses focused on French and Francophone cinema. Working with Associate Professor of French Andrea Jonsson, Boulard developed an innovative program on the environmental humanities and the arts that received a grant from the Embassy of France in the United States. She also created the French Speaker Series at Georgia Tech, which brings esteemed French writers, scholars, and artists to the campus.