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By Edward Potocek
A Vision Born from Crisis
Founded in January 2023 by Cecil Kerfont and Francie Nguyen, the Vallarta School for Girls emerged from the hardships of the COVID-19 pandemic. While delivering food to remote communities, Cecil and Francie witnessed firsthand how women and girls struggled to care for their families with limited opportunities for a better future.
As the two volunteers worked side by side at the Vallarta Food Bank, their conversations shifted from urgent needs to lasting solutions. With Francie’s experience in building schools in Vietnam and Cecil’s vision of empowering young people, they founded the Girls Education Fund and its beneficiary, the Vallarta School for Girls.
In January 2024, after months of planning and fundraising, the school proudly opened its doors to 15 students.
The Power of Community
Founder Francie Nguyen reflects: “We are focused on providing possibilities for our students. One of the most beautiful parts of our journey is the support we’ve received from Vallarta’s LGBTQ+ community. They’ve given their time, their talents, and their hearts to help us create opportunities for these girls. It’s one community standing with another—and it shows how love and inclusion can change lives.”
Francie knows firsthand how powerful that support can be. Having immigrated to the United States from Vietnam as a child, she experienced how the kindness of strangers could transform a young life. Inspired by her own journey—and fueled by deep gratitude—she is dedicated to giving back to Puerto Vallarta’s next generation.
Voices of Support
Volunteer Casey Wilcox adds, “It’s remarkable to see people from diverse backgrounds come together to build and support the Vallarta Girls School. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I’ve experienced the strength that comes from unity and the power it has to transform lives. The girls are witnessing this solidarity firsthand—and it’s providing them with a living example of how community can create change.”
Vallarta’s LGBTQ+ community has been an anchor of support for the school. Entertainers headline benefit shows, local businesses sponsor events, and countless volunteers give their time and expertise. This alliance reflects the city’s spirit: inclusive, generous, and stronger together.
A Holistic Education
Today, the school serves more than 40 students, offering a free, comprehensive education from elementary to high school, taught by an all-female teaching staff. Alongside strong academics, students study English, physical education, art, music, and photography—programs designed to spark creativity and confidence.
Through a partnership with the University of Guanajuato, high school classes prepare students for higher education, careers, and leadership roles. With the coming expansion, programs in health, wellness, and nutrition will ensure every girl receives a truly holistic education.
Milestones of Growth
Since June, the Vallarta School for Girls has celebrated two extraordinary milestones: its first graduation and the groundbreaking of a new campus.
On June 13, 2025, nine young women proudly crossed the courtyard in the school’s inaugural graduation ceremony. Surrounded by family, friends, teachers, and supporters, they celebrated not only their achievements but also the opportunities ahead of them. Thanks to generous donors, each graduate received a one-year scholarship to pursue further studies—whether at a university, a music conservatory, or the Mexican Navy. Scholarships cover full tuition and expenses, with students reapplying annually to maintain support.
Just weeks later, on July 2, the school broke ground on a state-of-the-art campus in Los Sauces, Puerto Vallarta. Designed in collaboration with architect and developer Alfonso Aguilar and Home Improvement PV, the new facilities will feature modern classrooms, a library, a gym, rooftop space, and gardens. When completed in 2026, enrollment will grow from 40 to 60 girls—increasing the opportunity to transform lives.
Building the Future
Earlier this year, the Girls Education Fund established its first Board of Directors and launched two major fundraising efforts: the Capital Campaign to build the new school and the Annual Operating Fund to sustain ongoing expenses.
As of August 15, 2025, the Capital Campaign has reached 60% of its $500,000 USD goal. Construction is underway, but more than $200,000 USD is still needed to complete the project.
Events that Inspire
To meet annual operating needs, the Vallarta School for Girls is launching its most ambitious fundraising season yet—three major events that blend entertainment, community, and purpose. Many will feature Vallarta’s celebrated LGBTQ+ performers and allies, whose artistry underscores the deep connections within the community.
- Tropical Christmas Garden Party – December 14, Los Mangos Library. A festive soirée with local bites, live entertainment, a silent auction, and dancing under the stars. Guests are encouraged to wear playful tropical holiday attire.
- Stars with a Heart – January 25, Teatro Vallarta. Produced by Mary Porter, this dazzling showcase brings together Vallarta’s beloved entertainers in an unforgettable night of music and talent.
- Black & White Gala – March 2, Sayan Tropical Condominiums. The season’s most elegant event, featuring a gourmet buffet, open bar, silent auction, and oceanfront dancing.
“These events aren’t just fundraisers,” says Co-Fundraising Chair Michelle Burnett. “They’re experiences that bring our city together. They give individuals and businesses the chance to stand with us, gain visibility, and most importantly, help change lives.”
Sponsorship opportunities at Gold, Silver, and Platinum levels highlight businesses’ commitment to education and equality while supporting the operating fund.
Stronger Together
The Vallarta School for Girls is more than a school—it is a movement of hope, opportunity, and transformation. Each milestone, from the first graduation to the new campus, demonstrates what is possible when communities lift one another up.
With your support—whether through a donation, sponsorship, attending an event, or simply spreading the word—we can continue to open doors, nurture dreams, and create lasting change.
Please visit the Girls Education Fund and Vallarta School for Girls to learn more, make a donation, become an event sponsor, or purchase tickets to an upcoming event.
This article is from our Fall 2025 print issue. You can view it here.
Esta publicación también está disponible en: English Español
