Membership

Welcome to the ESU...

The English-Speaking Union of the United States is a membership organization whose mission is carried out locally by the efforts of Branch members.  As an ESU member, you are contributing both financially and personally to programs that enrich the lives of students and educators through a diverse range of local and national programs.  Additionally, members expand their own social network by being invited to cultural and social events, speakers and book author events, regional and national events as well as invitations to international travel opportunities.

Join the ESU on our new website here.

Join the San Diego Branch of the English-Speaking Union

The English-Speaking Union of the United States is an American, non-profit and non-political organization that promotes educational, cultural and social activities within the San Diego area.

The San Diego Branch was established in the late l930's and is one of the 70 American Branches.

Members are a cross-section of interesting people who are either native to or have adopted the San Diego community as their home.

Vibrant speakers from different disciplines are featured at our monthly dinner meetings that are preceded by an always popular cocktail hour. The usual setting is the beautiful La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club overlooking the Pacific Ocean at sunset.

A variety of volunteer activities are offered which may be taken advantage of by members, among them being community outreach activities, the National Shakespeare Competition, Internet-based Global Conversations and the Speaker Program. Membership in our branch includes membership in the national organization and an opportunity to enjoy varied social and educational events. You are cordially invited to join us. 

Membership Benefits:

• A membership card
• Automatic enrollment as both a Branch and National member of the ESU 
• Invitations to an array of selected free Branch members events (subject to Branch availability) 
• Special member rates for Branch lectures, receptions, dinners and related activities (subject to Branch custom) 
• Subscriptions to Branch newsletters, the ESU Annual Report, and the bimonthly national ESU E-Newsletter (email required) 
• Invitations to participate in ESU co-sponsored educational travel and tours
• Special privileges at ESU of the Commonwealth Headquarters, Dartmouth House, in London 
• Member rate for ESU events at Dartmouth House and all ESU Branches throughout the UK 
• A 25% discount off online purchases from Walkers Shortbread (through December 31, 2015) 
• A 20% discount off a selection of 33 bestselling editions and up to two exquisite free gifts from the Folio Society 
• Members access to the Rooftop Herb Garden of the Brunel Museum overlooking the Thames 
• Invitation to the annual British Societies Summer Garden Party in New York City

Membership dues are as follows:

Additional Contributions

You can help the San Diego Branch execute the mission locally by donating to the General Branch Fund, which provides for educational and cultural opportunities for local teachers and students.

Consider Joining as a National Patron

National Patron Membership provides higher level support to programs that enrich the lives of our members, teachers, and thousands of high school and college students nationwide.  National Patrons receive local and national recognition and invitations to exclusive events.  Up to one half of your contribution can be designated to support your branch. 

National Patron Program Description: Download PDF

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