News And Events

Announcing the 2023 Drey Scholars!

Left to Right: Reta Jackson, Jillian Rodriguez, Bryan Boogiaino, Jonathan Jackson, Olivia Mindermann, Greg Wedel, and Socky O'Sullivan

Family members and friends of the newly named Drey Scholars, with members of the Executive Board of Central Florida Branch of ESU and active members of our Branch, gathered on Sunday afternoon, February 5th in the Library of the WP University Club to honor our 2023 Scholars. The program began at 2 p.m. with Reta Jackson, Scholarship Chair, introducing Dr. Maurice O'Sullivan, President of the Branch, who gave a brief history and explanation of this international organization. Then, Donna Miller talked about her friend, Jessie Drey, who endowed our organization with the monies that support the Teachers Learning Abroad (Tlab) scholarship program. The program continued with Reta introducing each scholar and Dr. O'Sullivan presenting a certificate. Gisela Davis presented a full-year branch membership and a membership badge so all can recognize our scholars, and Jackie Abrams gave each the initial check for $2,000 to be used for travel expenses and books. Their tuition, room, and board will be paid by invoice from the National Office of ESU and ranges from $5,000 to $6,600 depending on the program. The audience gave lots of applause for each of these wonderful educators who represent the best of the teaching profession.

  • Bryan Boggiano from Lake Nona High School will be attending the Globe Theater's Program, Teaching Shakespeare through Performance.
  • Jonathan Jackson from Windermere High School will also be attending the Globe Theater's Program, Teaching Shakespeare through Performance.
  • Olivia Mindermann from Horizon High School will be attending University of Edinburgh and studying Creative Writing.
  • Jillian Rodriguez from Lake Howell High School will be attending Oxford University and studying History, Politics and Society at Exeter College.
  • Greg Wedel from Lake Howell High School will be attending University of Edinburgh and studying Modernism and Contemporary Literature.

Congratulations to these amazing educators, and we wish them many adventures this summer as they travel across the pond, representing our Branch in the United Kingdom and furthering their educational experiences.

 

Return to News & Events

The English-Speaking Union

Central Florida Branch

Central Florida Branch Landmark Photo

Welcome to the ESU

The ESU celebrates English as a shared language to foster global understanding and good will by providing educational and cultural opportunities for students, educators, and members.

To find out more about our programs click here.