On January 20th, 2016, the Consul General of France, the Honorable Pauline Carmona, presented BLC Director and Professor of French Richard Kern the insignia of Chevalier in the Order of Palmes Académiques, citing Rick’s contribution to the promotion of French language and culture and to greater understanding between France and the U.S. The event took place at Madame Carmona’s lovely residence overlooking the city of San Francisco and was attended by Rick’s Berkeley colleagues, friends, and family. Warm congratulations to Rick!