Expanding minds Strengthening friendships Unlocking opportunities
For over 100 years, the educational and cultural programs of the English-Speaking Union (ESU) have enriched the lives of students, teachers, English language learners and members worldwide.

Happy Hour: J.R.R. Tolkien: Myth & Modernism

September 10 @ 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm EDT

J.R.R. Tolkien was a towering figure in the world of twentieth-century English letters. His labors on Beowulf continue to shape the literary landscape, his work on the Oxford English Dictionary still serves, and his groundbreaking thoughts about the role and purpose of fairy stories gave focus to th…

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Happy Hour: Vampire Literature: An Anthology

October 1 @ 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm EDT

Co-Authors Dr. Robin Werner and her colleague, Dr. Elizabeth Lewis, will discuss their book titled Vampire Literature: An Anthology. Specifically, they will talk about the anthology’s inspiration and the challenges of the creation process.

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The Earl and Countess of Derby Invite the English-Speaking Union to A Magical Holiday Weekend at Knowsley Hall

November 20 @ 8:00 am – November 23 @ 5:00 pm GMT

Step into the enchantment of the holiday season with an exclusive invitation from the Earl and Countess of Derby to spend a luxurious weekend at historic Knowsley Hall, a magnificent estate nestled in the English countryside.

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Educational Programs

What We Do

Travel and Learn Abroad

The ESU unlocks opportunities to educators, students and lifelong learners to live and learn in the United Kingdom on programs ranging from one week to one year. Merit-based and ESU branch-sponsored scholarships available to renowned British universities and theatre programs.

English Conversations

English in Action matches learners of English with volunteer tutors for weekly conversation practice. The program offers one-to-one conversations and group discussions. Volunteers provide newcomers with a window into U.S. life and culture.

Center for New Immigrants

The Andrew Romay New Immigrant Center (ARNIC) supports the integration of recent immigrants into U.S. social, economic and civic life. The free program offers English language classes, conversation practice, career development services and opportunities for civic and cultural learning. The center builds community for new immigrants from diverse backgrounds.

National Shakespeare Competition

The National Shakespeare Competition is a performance-based program supported by ESU Branches across the country. High school students read, analyze, perform and recite Shakespearean monologues and sonnets. The National Shakespeare Writing Competition provides high school students the opportunity to express their love of Shakespeare through creative and analytical writing.

Debate and Public Speaking

The ESU’s middle and high school debate leagues provide students with the opportunity to develop critical thinking skills through public speaking at debate tournaments in the US throughout the academic year. Students from all over the world also have the opportunity to hone their skills during the International Public Speaking Competition in London.
2025 Founder’s Award Gala

Quinn Peeper and Laurence Morse

Congratulations to the recipient of the ESU 2025 Founder’s Award, Dr. E. Quinn Peeper! Dr. Peeper was honored at the 2025 Founder’s Award Gala on March 15 in Winter Park, FL in collaboration with the ESU Central Florida Branch. Thank you to everyone who made this event a great success!
 
Dr. Peeper is pictured here with past Founder’s Award recipient Dr. Laurence C. Morse.
 
To view photos from the gala, click here and enter password “esu”.
View Gala Program View Gala Video
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The English-Speaking Union of the United States relies on the generosity of individuals, foundations and corporations in accomplishing our mission.
Your tax-deductible contribution to the ESU will provide meaningful cultural and educational programs that enrich the lives of thousands of middle school, high school and college students nationwide, our members across the country and the greater international community of those teaching, learning and speaking English.
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