Odile de Schietere-Longchampt received the Insignia of Chevalier of the Order of National Merit on January 21, 2010 at the Consulate General of France in New York.

Odile de Schietere-Longchampt is an Interior Decorator who specializes in the development of French heritage and is an active member of charity organizations.

This distinction rewards an exemplary career and a personal engagment in service of French and American humanitarian causes, as well as an important contribution to the restoration of French heritage abroad, notably in support of the restoration of a Reception Room of the Consulate General of France in New York.

Speech of Philippe Lalliot, Consul General of France in New York :

Madame et Messieurs les Conseiller à l’Assemblée des Français de l’Etranger, Mesdames et Messieurs, Dear Friends,

It is a great pleasure for me, for at least three reasons, to welcome you to the Consulate of France this evening.

It is a pleasure because the award ceremonies are very special occasions and are often very moving. They represent the Republic of France’s recognition of exceptional merit. The National Order of Merit was created in 1963 by General de Gaulle to reward distinguished meritorious service to France, in the exercise of a civil or military activity.

It is also a pleasure because I consider Odile de Longchampt to be a friend. Although we have only known each other for a short time, I have already been able to appreciate her willingness, her generosity, and her dedication to numerous causes that are dear to us. Odile, more than anyone else, has a reason to feel at home here since she has contributed so much to the renovation of these rooms.

Finally, it is a pleasure because there are so many of you here tonight and because I really only like the Consulate when it is filled with friends who have come to spend a pleasant, relaxed and informal evening here. My only goal is, together with my team, to make you feel at home.

Without further delay, I would like to invite George Sape to speak. I am indebted to George for having welcomed me with open arms to New York a little over four months ago. It is thanks to him that I am a member of the Commanderie de Bordeaux, another perhaps less prestigious honor, but one that I am very proud of.

George, we met together yesterday with Jeri, Nicole and Guy and it is always a pleasure for me to see you again. You have the floor./.

Odile, as the Consul General of France in New York I am very honored, and as your friend it gives me great pleasure, to present you with this award.

Odile de Schuitere Longchampt, au nom du Président de la République et en vertu des pouvoirs qui nous sont conférés, nous vous faisons Chevalier dans l’Ordre National du Mérite./.