Established by the Perkin Fund
Alex M. Kayoun (1922–2009) was an extraordinary teacher, mentor, and role model for generations of young men at the Browning School. A member of Browning's faculty from 1968-1989, along with his wife, Gisele, Mr. Kayoun’s legacy will be perpetuated and expanded by the Kayoun Award, an appropriate honor for an outstanding teacher. The Kayoun Award will provide an opportunity for a deserving student, who otherwise would not have the resources, to experience firsthand the language, culture, and aesthetics of the country most associated with the language he is studying. Students of French will be given first consideration, but the award will not be restricted. Presented annually at Prize Day at the conclusion of the school year, the Kayoun Award aims to cover the expenses of a chaperoned programmed trip to France, Spain, Greece, Italy, or other appropriate destination.
To make a donation in memory of Mr. Kayoun toward the Alex M. Kayoun Memorial Language Award, please click here.
“I spent five years learning French from Mr. Kayoun, from Form II all the way through AP French in Form VI. Mr. Kayoun had an uncanny memory for detail and a thorough knowledge of French history and culture. He never failed to entrance students with stories about the lives of French historical figures or the authors whose works we were reading, putting their lives into a context which seemed relevant to ours. Mr. Kayoun is one of the teachers who influenced me the most.” —William T. Reed ’85
“For four years now, a man with an accent and a French moustache has taught French at Browning. When our class first met him, he seemed like a typical teacher with a few unusual expressions. But over these four years, we have come to appreciate, respect, and admire him. We appreciate what he has done to improve the French department, respect his personal integrity and unique qualities as a teacher, and admire his devotion to helping students learn. He has inspired us in a way that very few teachers do.” —1972 Grytte
“In 1984, the Kayouns led a group of Browning upperclassmen on a trip to France. The group visited various cities and sites, including Paris, Lyon, Reims, Chartres, Mont St. Michel, and many others. By extending the French experience outside the confines of a classroom and providing firsthand interaction with the people, culture, and language of France, the Kayouns have been able to establish one of the most successful and esteemed French departments in the city.” —1989 Grytte
“The Kayouns’ legacy will live on forever with all of us who have had the benefit of their erudition and friendship. Au revoir et merci.” —1989 Grytte
Nicolas Perkin '89 and Michael Beys '89 discuss the establishment of the Alex M. Kayoun Memorial Language Award:
