Madame Josie Gonot, OPA

 

Josie first learned French as a child living in the home of her Syrian/Lebanese grandmother. While working full-time in Corporate Trust Banking as a Bank Officer and Assistant Vice President, she graduated from Capital University in 1995 with a Bachelor of Arts degree (French major/Spanish minor). She has recently completed graduate courses and student teaching assignments in K-12 Foreign Language Education at both OSU & Ashland University toward a master’s certification.

 

Josie has worked with over 30 years as a public speaker and professional vocalist.  A former President of the Columbus Chaper of the Alliance Francaise, she has represented francophone nations in musical performance at the annual Columbus International Festival, formerly held at Vets Memorial.

 

Her current musical projects include a piano/vocal performance of traditional French music ("French Love Songs") and a 5-piece Louisiana Cajun ensemble called The Cajun Bleu Band.

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Prior to the 2020 pandemic, Josie offered authentic dégustations, or educational food-tasting programs ("A Taste of France") in Upper Arlington and over 16 municipal and retirement centers in the local area. She is founder and owner of The French Music and History Lecture Series of Central Ohio.

 

After traveling extensively in France with family who live near Valenciennes, Josie enjoys a life settled in Gahanna, Ohio where she offers classes, concerts and language lessons in both French and Spanish for both children and adults.