The English-Speaking Union
 
 

News And Events

ESU Statement on the Tragedy in Pittsburgh

At this time of great sadness in the wake of the hate killings in Pittsburgh, the English-Speaking Union joins the nation in mourning. We stand with our partner HIAS, targeted during this tragedy for their role in resettling refugees. We support all of our partners who are committed to the American ideal of welcoming those in need, including refugees and asylum seekers. As we approach the one hundredth anniversary of our organization dedicated to global understanding, our mission is now more important than ever.  

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TLab Scholars head to the UK on professional development scholarships

TLab Scholars at Oxford

This summer, TLab is sending teachers from throughout the country to study at some of the world's finest institutions of higher learning. Why? To enrich the education of teachers so that they, in turn, can share their enhanced knowledge and experiences with their students.

The ESU has always valued teachers and education. Since 1957, we've sent thousands of teachers abroad each summer to enroll in professional development courses at the University of Edinburgh, The University of Oxford and Shakespeare's Globe.

2018 TLab Scholars

  • 23 ESU branches providing scholarships
  • 39 scholarships awarded to teachers
  • 66 teachers studying in the UK
  • 1,000+ students impacted each year by TLab
  • $200,000 raised by ESU branches for TLab scholarships

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June is Immigrant Heritage Month!

Andrew Romay with students

English in Action and the Andrew Romay New Immigrant Center (ARNIC) stand with asylum seekers, refugees and immigrants. Immigrant Heritage Month is a chance for us to celebrate immigrants and the contributions they make to American society. 

Since 2013, ARNIC has served more than 1,000 asylum seekers, refugees and immigrants from over 60 countries. Through English language classes, professional development workshops and cultural events, ARNIC helps immigrants become active and engaged members of American society. Within a safe and welcoming environment ARNIC members improve their English, explore work and study opportunities, network, pursue citizenship and acquire cultural fluency as they build their new lives in the U.S.

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Congratulations ARNIC Class of 2018

Class of 2018 ARNIC Graduates

Graduation is a memorable moment for all students, but for the 166 graduates from the Andrew Romay New Immigrant Center (ARNIC) on May 31, this achievement was especially significant. ARNIC graduates are unique in that they are all new immigrants who attended a free, yearlong scholarship program through English in Action. 

On May 31, 2018 ARNIC hosted a graduation ceremony for students, teachers, supporters and elected officials at Fourth Universalist Society in New York. Following the ceremony, a benefit dinner supporting ARNIC raised more than $76,000 through the generosity of a matching challenge grant from the Marietta and Andrew Romay Foundation.

Thanks to the ARNIC program, I have gained confidence and experience. Those keys I know will open doors to professional opportunities for me. As an immigrant, as a mother, as a woman in my 40s, as an asylum seeker—believe me, there are a lot of challenges I face, but that won't stop me from doing what I have to do today for me and my community. Niurka Melendez-Vasquez, ARNIC Graduate

Click to see photos from the ARNIC Graduation.

Click to watch the graduation ceremony, speeches and panel discussion.

Click to download a copy of the ARNIC Graduation program.

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Ali Cohen from Arizona competed in the IPSC Grand Final round in London

2018 IPSC Finalists in London

"The only difference between these two girls--in fact, the only difference between girls like myself and the 60 million uneducated girls around the world is chance."

These words were spoken today in London by Chandler Arizona high school junior Ali Cohen as part of her speech, Many Worlds Apart at the Grand Final of the ESU International Public Speaking Competition at Dartmouth House today.

Ali (third from right in the front row) used her platform to urge those who have power and influence to be a conduit for the story of uneducated girls around the world as they fight for education, opportunity and equality. 

Watch the IPSC Grand Finals on Facebook. 
(Ali Cohen's speech is at 1:21:00)

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