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.

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.
Make a tax-deductible donation to the ESU

Donate Now

A Message from the Chairman
View Chairman’s Letters
Support Us
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.
Donate Now

Happy Hour: C.S. Lewis and the Powerful Predicament of Language

August 14 @ 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Livestream
United States

C.S. Lewis (1898-1963) was one of the intellectual giants of the twentieth century and arguably one of the most influential writers of his day. Lewis wrote more than thirty books, reaching a vast audience and attracting thousands of new readers every year.

Find out more »

Happy Hour: Exploring Churchill’s Public Service Through Period Memorabilia

September 4 @ 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Livestream
United States

2024 marks the 150th birth anniversary of Sir Winston Churchill with events planned throughout the year which celebrate and explore his remarkable public service and enduring legacy. Brian E. Krapf, is recognized internationally as an authority on the memorabilia made during Sir Winston’s public s…

Find out more »

ESU 2024 Patron Trip: A Private View of Italy

September 21 – September 27

Founded by art historian Count Stefano Aluffi-Pentini in 1996, A Private View of Italy encourages guests to appreciate the life of historic palaces and villas, and allows them to discover the inaccessible treasures that are hidden behind closed doors. Through the centuries the Italian aristoc…

Find out more »

Happy Hour: The Life and Times of Margaret (Molly) Brown

September 25 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Livestream
United States

An overview of the life and legacy of Margaret Tobin Brown, activist, WWI volunteer in France, philanthropist, and suffragist whose 1889 home, shown above, is an historic museum in downtown Denver, CO.

Find out more »

The English-Speaking Union of the United States Annual Conference with The International Council Meeting 2024

October 18 – October 20

Get ready to embark on an exhilarating journey as we gather in the vibrant city of Cleveland. We are thrilled to extend a warm invitation to all ESU and International Council members to join us for an unforgettable experience this October.

Find out more »
Search on the Old Website
ESU Legacy Site