Discover, Connect, and Thrive with the English-Speaking Union (ESU)
At the English-Speaking Union, we believe in the power of the English language to connect people across borders, backgrounds, and generations. Through language, we open doors to understanding, collaboration, and lifelong learning.
As we celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the ESU House, launch our Capacity Building Campaign, and look ahead to the 250th Anniversary of our nation with events nationwide, there’s never been a better time to join our community.
Join the ESU—where language connects and community thrives.
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The 2023–2024 Annual Report of the English-Speaking Union of the United States highlights a year of remarkable achievements in advancing global understanding and educational opportunity through the power of the English language. From expanding the National Shakespeare Competition and celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Andrew Romay New Immigrant Center to fostering teacher development, debate, and cultural exchange programs, the ESU strengthened its impact across communities nationwide. These accomplishments reflect the dedication of members, volunteers, donors, and staff whose collective efforts continue to build bridges, empower learners, and carry forward the ESU’s mission with pride and purpose.
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Dear ESU Friends,
The recent disturbing events compelled me to write this letter to express my deep concern, felt for some time now, at the general loss of civility and tolerance in our society. In moments like these, when our nation feels most divided, I am reminded how much the world needs the English-Speaking Union and the mission we serve. |
Introducing the ESU Educator Membership
We are proud to announce our new Educator Membership, offered exclusively to teachers involved in TLab, the National Shakespeare Competition, Middle & High School Debate, and other ESU education programs. Benefits include:
- Access to exclusive professional development workshops - including The Women of Shakespeare, live via Zoom from Shakespeare’s Globe in November.
- Special curriculum resources and lesson plans
- Member events in NYC during Shakespeare Finals Weekend
- Exciting add-on experiences to TLab programs
- Discounted tickets to the National Shakespeare Competition
- Preferred rates at the Shelburne Sonesta Hotel in NYC
- Exclusive discounts on select Broadway shows
Click here for more information and to become a member. |
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Honoring Loved Ones Through Memorial Giving
The ESU offers a meaningful way to celebrate the lives of those who have made a lasting impact on us. A memorial gift is a thoughtful tribute to a family member, friend, teacher, or mentor, reflecting the values they inspired while helping to create opportunities for others. Members can dedicate their contribution in honor or in memory of someone special and, if desired, request that their family be notified. To make a memorial gift, visit our website and select the option to “Dedicate my donation in honor or in memory of someone.” Through these acts of remembrance, we strengthen the ESU community and carry forward the legacies of those we cherish. |
ESU LUARD MORSE SCHOLARSHIP
The Luard Morse Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship providing up to $30,000 towards a semester of study at a British university to students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities during their Junior year. The scholarship is open to students in all disciplines and has been awarded to students majoring in economics, philosophy, finance, mathematics, liberal arts, and the sciences. They can apply to the British university of their choice. Luard Morse Scholars have served as ambassadors for the United States while abroad and for British higher education upon returning home.
APPLICATIONS OPEN!
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ESU SECONDARY SCHOOL EXCHANGE SCHOLARSHIP (SSE)
The ESU SSE Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship providing tuition and room and board for scholars to spend a year between high school and college at a British boarding school. During this "Gap Year," these young scholars have new academic and social experiences in another country and culture. Through their year abroad, the SSE scholars gain independence, a global outlook, and increased maturity that benefits them at college and in their future careers.
APPLICATIONS OPEN!
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ESU TRAVEL & LEARN ABROAD SCHOLARSHIPS (TLab)
Since 1957, ESU Branches nationwide have generously provided scholarships to middle and high school teachers for summer study at Oxford, Edinburgh and Shakespeare's Globe in London. Applications are open for teachers to apply for ESU Branch Scholarships to study in the UK in the summer of 2026! UK Summer programs take place in July and early August each summer. 2026 UK program dates and details available by January. 2025 UK programs are currently posted on the ESU website for reference only. 1-week programs to Oxford and Stratford-upon-Avon for the Page to Stage Program also available for teachers and life-long learners.
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ESU INTERNATIONAL PUBLIC SPEAKING COMPETITION (IPSC)
Since 1983, the English-Speaking Union International Public Speaking Competition (IPSC) has brought together outstandingly articulate young people from around the world for a week of public speaking competition and international cultural exchange at the ESU of the Commonwealth in London. For the first time, the US Finals Competition will be held at the ESU in NYC on April 24th to select the Delegate to send to London with a speech to celebrate the impact of two powerful public speakers -- Winston Churchill and Dwight D. Eisenhower. Both former presidents of the ESU, embodied different but complementary traditions of leadership through speech. Churchill’s words rallied free nations through their darkest hours. Eisenhower’s warnings urged clarity, restraint, and vigilance in the face of power. For this year’s U.S. Finals, students are invited to reflect on how speech, argument, and public dialogue strengthen liberty. A thematic option built around paired quotations from Churchill and Eisenhower will be posted on the ESU website in January. The theme will be open enough for interpretation but grounded in the ESU’s mission and the legacy of its two former presidents.
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THE ESU NATIONAL SHAKESPEARE COMPETITION
The ESU’s 43rd Annual National Shakespeare Competition is now underway! School-level competitions are taking place across the country throughout December, with thousands of students exploring Shakespeare’s language through dynamic, performance-based learning.
Schools across our Branches may continue to register, giving educators a meaningful way to connect students with Shakespeare’s works. Branch winners will advance to New York City in April 2026 for an exciting weekend of workshops, city tours, and a Broadway show, culminating in the final competition on stage at Lincoln Center on Monday, April 27. Students compete for scholarships and other prizes, while teachers enjoy ongoing access to online and in-person professional development throughout the year.
Click here to learn more about the NSC and our professional development offerings for educators. |
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ENGLISH IN ACTION ACROSS AMERICA (EiA)
Volunteering is a meaningful way to make a difference, and few opportunities are as rewarding as helping newcomers to the U.S. improve their English language skills. With just two hours a week, you can open doors for someone building a new life just by having a conversation. No prior experience is needed—training is provided, and with little effort, you will form a long-lasting relationship with your conversation partner. Sign up for an information session today and discover how fulfilling it is to support someone who truly needs it!
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SAVE THE DATE:
January 13, 2026
Virtual Event
Zoom link to follow
Join the Churchill Society of New York and the English-Speaking Union for a discussion on "Churchill and the Middle East: An Introduction.
We would like to invite you to an evening of discussion with David Freeman, Director of Publications and Editor of "Finest Hour" at the International Churchill Society, who will discuss "Churchill and the Middle East." |
THE ESU 2026 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The English-Speaking Union welcomes its members to NYC for the 2026 ESU Annual Conference on April 24th-25th, 2026. The conference, under the theme “United by Language, Inspired by Liberty.” The conference program will include the ESU 2026 Annual General Meeting, social events such as receptions and meals, breakout sessions, panel discussions, and local tours. We invite you to participate in the camaraderie and help us advance our programs that support teachers, students, and recent immigrants. |
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Please click here to register 2026 AGM, or click below to register online
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PATRON TRIP UPDATE
A Magical Holiday Weekend at Knowsley Hall
November 20–23, 2025
Our Patron members enjoyed an exceptional long weekend at Knowsley Hall, hosted by the Earl and Countess of Derby. The program featured private access to the Derby Collection, guided tours led by Curator Gareth Williams, elegant dinners in the State Dining Room, and receptions in the historic Walnut Drawing Room and the family’s private residence, the New House.
Highlights included a sightseeing tour of Liverpool, a Signature Afternoon Tea, a piano recital at the New House, a lecture on Shakespeare’s connection to the Earls of Derby with a viewing of the Fourth Folio, and a private tour of the Shakespeare North Playhouse. Ample free time allowed guests to enjoy the Hall, gardens, and Estate activities.
The trip concluded with a festive Black Tie Christmas Dinner and a farewell breakfast, leaving guests with a memorable and culturally rich experience.
This experience offered our Patrons privileged access to one of Britain’s most storied estates and the warm hospitality of the Derby family, creating lasting memories and deepening connections within our community. |
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