About us

Dr. Goutas is an accomplished scholar and educator with a diverse academic background. She earned her Ph.D. in French & Francophone Literature from the University of Chicago, complemented by a Diplôme d’Etudes Approfondies in French Literature from the University of Paris 7. Her passion for language pedagogy led her to obtain a Master's in French as a Foreign Language Pedagogy from the University of Rouen, following her Bachelor's in English and Cinema and Audiovisual Studies from the University of Reims (France).

Her teaching journey began in Spain, where she lived, instructing Business French after previous roles as a French Lecturer and administrative intern at Florida State University. Subsequently, she pursued her Ph.D. and served as a Lecturer at the University of Chicago, while also teaching at institutions such as the School of the Art Institute, Loyola University Chicago, and Daley College.

Upon completing her doctoral studies, she transitioned to the role of Visiting Assistant Professor at Dominican University before joining Wheaton College, Illinois, where she taught French and Spanish. Presently, she holds the position of Associate Instructional Professor in French at the University of Chicago.

Throughout her career, Dr. Goutas has been actively involved in immersive language programs, including serving as a teacher at Benedictine University's French and Spanish Immersion Weekend programs and as a Journée Intensive en Français Liaison at Dominican University. In 2018, she assumed the role of director of the latter program, having previously served as assistant director for five years. Additionally, she currently serves as the President of the AATF Chicago/Northern Illinois Chapter.

Since 2023, Dr. Goutas has co-directed a program in partnership with Gissele Drpich, further expanding her commitment to immersive language education and cross-cultural understanding.

Gissele brings a wealth of experience and a multicultural perspective to her role as a language educator at Mundelein High School. With a Master’s Degree in Economics from l’Université de Montréal, she transitioned from a successful career in finance to pursue her passion for teaching in 2004.

As a polyglot and global citizen, Gissele is dedicated to empowering her students and fostering cross-cultural understanding. Currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Latin American Literature and Cultures, she is committed to continuous learning and professional development. Gissele also serves as an executive board member of the AATF Chicago/Northern Illinois Chapter, further enriching her impact in the language education community.

Her leadership extends beyond the classroom, having previously served as President of the Francophone Youth Theater, where she championed dynamic and creative language teaching methods through theatrical workshops. Gissele is driven by a desire to equip her students with the skills and confidence they need to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world. In 2023, after experiencing the exceptional programming and opportunities provided to high school students through the JIF firsthand—as a participant, volunteer, and presenter—she eagerly embraced the opportunity to serve as co-director alongside Sylvie.