News and Events

ESU Immigrant Support Embarks on New Season

National News

The dawn of the new year, 2019, saw the resumption of the English-Speaking Union's most iconic programs: ESU English in Action (EiA) and the Andrew Romay New Immigrant Center (ARNIC). To mark the occasion, the ESU held a special kickoff lunch on January 9 at the English-Speaking Union house to welcome new and returning program members and program instructors. ESU Executive Director Karen Karpowich spoke briefly applauding all the program participants for their initiative, counseling them not to fear making mistakes as they master the English language. Program Manager Rona Weitz made brief remarks, introducing program and ESU staff.

ARNIC, a unique scholarship program, equips recent immigrants with the English language skills and cultural knowledge to integrate more fully into life in the U.S.  Eighty ARNIC members are currently participating in our January Intensive English classes on a range of topics from grammar to U.S. history.

Four hundred and fifty students and their tutors are meeting weekly in locations across Manhattan engaging in conversation, practicing and improving their English skills, and learning idioms and local jargon as part of the ESU English in Action Conversations program. This vital initiative, now in its 43^rd year, matches English language learners with native speakers to build confidence and fluency.

2019 will be a year of growth for both programs as the ESU expands its venues, enhance its programming and establishes new partnerships.

Return to News & Events