This website is best viewed on a modern browser.

Certain elements of this website do not render correctly on Internet Explorer.

We reccomend using Google Chrome, Apple Safari, Mozilla Firefox, or Microsoft Edge in order to have the best experince reading ESU's Annual Report.

Annual Report 2023

ESU Mission

Expands minds

Strengthens friendships

Unlocks opportunities

Through the use of the English language

Founded in 1920, the English-Speaking Union of the United States is a national membership organization with more than 3,000 members organized in 64 Branches across the country. ESU members and volunteers are the pillars of our educational and cultural programs as they work in their local communities to carry the ESU mission forward.

The English-Speaking Union employs English as a shared language to foster global understanding and goodwill by providing educational and cultural programs for students, educators, English language learners, new immigrants and members.

Watch Centenial Video

Chairman's Letter

It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to the English-Speaking Union 2023 Annual Report, a proud record of our organization’s achievements during the 2022-2023 program year and a testament to the unwavering dedication, creativity and passion of the entire ESU community.

From the steadfast commitment of our volunteers to the generous support of our donors and members, from the innovative ideas of our staff to the boundless enthusiasm of our program participants, each of you has contributed to the remarkable milestones detailed within these pages.

This 2022-2023 program year was punctuated by three extraordinary events that etched their mark in the annals of our organization's history. Each milestone we reached was a reflection of our shared vision and determination.

In October 2022 we welcomed HRH The Princess Royal to the ESU – the first visit by a member of the Royal Family in nearly forty years. The Gala was a triumph in more ways than one, particularly after it had been canceled twice due to Covid. It was made all the more meaningful by having The Princess Royal bestow the Princess Royal Awards for “contributions to the English-Speaking Union in its wider global setting” to three exceptional individuals – Dr. Loveday Conquest from ESU Seattle, Mrs. Natalie Pray from ESU Greenwich and Dr. Julia Churchill Van de Water, ESU Lexington.  This memorable occasion not only showcased the ESU's commitment to fostering goodwill and understanding but also underscored the importance of cultural exchange and education in our global community.

Just a month after the Gala, November 11-13, about sixty of us gathered at the historic Mills House Hotel in Charleston, South Carolina, for the ESU 2022 Annual General Conference. The gathering was a forum for collaboration, dialogue and shared vision as we charted the course for the ESU's future endeavors. In addition to the substantive discussions about the ESU's future growth, we enjoyed lively social events, guided tours through Charleston's historic past and a sunset cruise in Charleston's harbor, immersing ourselves in the rich culture and beauty of this historic city.

We rejoiced at the triumphant return of the ESU National Shakespeare Competition to Lincoln Center in New York City, marking its 40th anniversary with a weekend filled with exciting experiences. Students, their families, teachers, Branch coordinators and guests explored our great city, took in some of the world-renowned sites, and participated in a variety of activities including a brunch at the ESU headquarters, a performance workshop and a Broadway show. The weekend culminated in the final rounds of the competition and an anniversary celebration party at Lincoln Center.

In addition to these standout occasions, the other ESU programs also saw growth and rejuvenation after resuming in-person activities.

The ESU National Shakespeare Competition’s anniversary celebration continued through the first of the revived ESU National Patron Tours – a long-standing tradition of engaging our most generous members through exclusive experiences of cultural enrichment and unforgettable adventures. The transatlantic crossing aboard Queen Mary 2 and in and around London in early July 2023 was hugely successful.  Under the theme of "The Bard's Queens on Board", the voyage offered the perfect mix of intellectual stimulation, elegant travel and sheer fun in the company of old and new friends. A group of twenty travelers set sail from New York on July 7 aboard RMS Queen Mary 2 for a week at sea. On shore, the group delighted in behind-the-scenes access to unique places and people made possible by the ESU's network of connections built over a century.

In line with the English-Speaking Union's mission to unlock opportunities through the power of the English language and promote cross-cultural understanding, our immigrant programs continued to play a pivotal role in empowering newcomers to thrive in their new home. During the 2022-2023 program year we witnessed the successful continuation of the English in Action Across America conversation program, a collaborative effort that pairs volunteers from ESU Branches across the country with new immigrants in the New York area for weekly conversations, facilitating language practice and cultural exchange.  English in Action Across America is an expansion of our English in Action Conversations, which during its nearly five decades of service has offered not only valuable language practice and cultural exchange to English language learners but also an opportunity for volunteers to contribute in a meaningful way to their diverse communities.

The ESU Andrew Romay New Immigrant Center further expanded its programs and reach with the introduction of a new professional development program. Launched in early 2023 with a major grant from the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation, the program advances the economic integration of new immigrants by helping them to develop professional English proficiency and to navigate the U.S. job market. Through targeted job-readiness English classes, individualized career advice and one-to-one professional mentoring, this program bridges the gap between immigrant talent and employment opportunities, facilitating meaningful integration and socioeconomic mobility.

The 2022-2023 recipient of the ESU Luard Morse Scholarship was Mr. Shang Andrews II, a Computer Engineering Major at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University in Greensboro, NC. The $25,000 Luard Morse Scholarship enabled Mr. Andrews to spend a semester at Queen Mary University in London.

Thanks to our Branches' and members' generosity, the ESU Teachers Learning Abroad (TLab) program enabled forty-one teachers to continue their career growth at top UK universities. The ESU Secondary School Exchange Scholarship sent fourteen students to live and study in the United Kingdom and the United States. The oldest of all our education programs, SSE allows students to discover new worlds by spending a “gap” year at schools in the UK.

The ESU Middle School Debate Program serves as a platform for adolescents to develop their reasoning and public speaking skills. This year 1,800 students participated in 1,850 debate rounds. Through these structured debate competitions and training sessions, participants were not only encouraged to research and analyze complex issues but also to articulate their viewpoints confidently and persuasively in front of their peers and judges while listening attentively to opposing perspectives.

The programs and events for our members lie at the very core of the ESU mission, serving as vital avenues for fostering connections, nurturing friendships, and building a sense of community. Through thought-provoking discussions, engaging lectures and convivial gatherings, these initiatives provide opportunities for members to come together in person or virtually, share experiences and forge lasting bonds.

The Evelyn Wrench Speaker Series continued to captivate audiences with insightful talks by renowned speakers on a wide range of topics, offering members opportunities for intellectual stimulation and personal growth.

The ever-popular Happy Hour Program continued to thrive, celebrating its fifth and sixth seasons with fifteen engaging presentations covering a diverse array of topics. From the comfort of our screens, we embarked on virtual journeys ranging from a Bourbon tasting session with the esteemed Evan Williams distillery to riveting historical lectures delving into Churchill's exploits during wartime on the Nile and the landscape of England before the Norman Conquest. These interactive and informative sessions not only provided opportunities for intellectual stimulation and cultural enrichment but also fostered a sense of camaraderie and connection among our members, highlighting the enduring appeal and significance of the Happy Hour Program within the ESU community.

It is with great pleasure that I present to you the 2023 Annual Report of the English-Speaking Union. But before you delve into the pages of this report, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every member, volunteer, donor and staff member who has contributed to the success of the ESU's 2022-2023 program year. As we celebrate the achievements documented within these pages, let us not forget the perseverance and determination of the beneficiaries of our educational programs, whose commitment to learning and growth inspires us all. I also thank our dedicated staff, led by President and Executive Director Karen Karpowich, for their hard work and dedication. Together, we have made a meaningful impact, and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue this journey alongside all of you.

I encourage you to read this Annual Report and discover the achievements and impact of the English-Speaking Union. Please renew your membership and if you are not a member yet, join our organization. Participate in our events, lend a hand as a volunteer, donate to our programs, and be a part of a fellowship that has upheld the ESU mission for over a century.

Dr. E. Quinn Peeper

Chairman, The English-Speaking Union of the United States

Setting the Stage for Growth

2022 Annual Conference

Under the theme “Setting the Stage for Growth” the 2022 Annual General Conference brought members from all over the country to beautiful Charleston, S.C., for a weekend of substantive meetings and wonderful social and cultural events.

One of the most enriching discussions was the plenary session on the morning of Saturday, November 12 when we delved into the insights and recommendations presented by our consultant Rev. Renee LiaBraaten, and focused on the strategic pathways to bolstering the growth and vitality of our organization. Rev. Renee’s recommendations ranged from expanding collaboration within and outside the ESU, to strengthening both digital and direct communications, to building connections with those who can provide support and sponsorship, such as lifelong learners, program alumni, former members and institutions such as corporations and private foundations.

During the Annual General Meeting on Sunday, November 13, 2022, the ESU Board and leadership presented a series of reports on the ESU bylaws, budget and audit. A slate of excellent new Board Members was unanimously elected and two Board Members were re-elected for another two-year term.

A series of dynamic breakout sessions addressed key facets of the ESU’s organization and programs from a Branch perspective providing a platform for productive dialogue and innovative problem-solving.

Beyond the insightful discussion, a series of social and cultural activities brought members closer together and reinforced the ESU’s goal of nurturing bonds and friendships.

During the welcoming dinner on Friday evening, as we enjoyed the fabled Southern cuisine, we had the opportunity to recognize a number of ESU members for their leadership within their Branches with the inaugural 2022 Membership Recognition Awards, a grassroots initiative to develop a culture of appreciation and recognition at the ESU.

The program ended with long-term ESU Member from the Seattle Branch and former National Board Member Bill Maschmeier taking the stage to remind the dinner attendees of the ESU’s important contributions to society and the need to nurture and enhance, in perpetuity, the value of our educational and cultural exchange programs and activities.

In a playful and charming way, Bill appealed to all participants to remember the ESU in their wills. “Being dead is no excuse,” he noted, and urged them to think about the legacy they leave behind.

The exclusive National Patron reception and lecture at the Charleston Library Society was another conference highlight. This annual event recognizes the ESU National Patrons, our most generous and loyal members.

Renowned architecture critic and author Susan Sully shared with the ESU National Patrons some elements of the unique style lexicon that make the Holy City so exquisite, from the late 17th century to the present, and offered a richly illustrated overview of some of Charleston’s enduring architecture, craftsmanship and decorative elements. All guests received a signed copy of Susan’s most recent book, The Allure of Charleston.

On Sunday, following the Annual General Meeting, avid student of Lowcountry history and raconteuse extraordinaire Leigh Handal took the group on a fascinating virtual tour of the city’s streets as they once were, revealing some lesser known aspects of Charleston’s history.

Attendees walked Charleston’s cobbled streets with historians Christina and Nic Butler and we heard the true stories on the Gullah language, culture and music during the Gullah Geechee tour led by local expert Al Miller. He sang for the tour participants and spoke Gullah words, but beneath the humor, the stories were a sincere and accurate portrayal of the struggles, strength and resilience of the Gullah people.

Capping the perfect weekend was the Sunset Harbor Cruise on board the Charleston Princess. Under crisp, clear skies, the group breathed the salty air and marveled at the brilliant colors of the Charleston sunset.

And for those who had a day to spare, the optional tour on Monday, led by storyteller Leigh Handal, took them to the American College of Building Arts, the only institution of higher learning in the U.S. that teaches exceptional craftsmanship and encourages the preservation, enrichment and understanding of the world’s architectural heritage. The College has been a long-standing partner and beneficiary of the ESU Charleston Branch’s generosity. The next tour stop was Middleton Place Plantation, a rare survivor of the American Revolution, Civil War, economic upheavals and natural disasters that offers a unique glimpse into the lives of the Middleton family and the enslaved African Americans who worked there.

Special thanks go to Mr. Lawrence Hollingsworth and the ESU Charleston Branch for hosting a memorable 2022 Annual Conference. Their guidance, advice and practical help ensured the success of the weekend.

Learn more

2022 ESU Gala

Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal Visit to the English-Speaking Union of the United States

On Monday, October 3, 2022, after two postponements due to the pandemic and many months of preparation and anticipation, the ESU hosted Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal in its New York headquarters followed by a Gala at the Cosmopolitan Club of New York. This was the first visit by a member of the Royal Family since 1989 when Prince Philip was the guest of honor at an ESU gala at the Plaza Hotel in New York City. And it was the first time the ESU had had the privilege of hosting The Princess Royal.

After touching down at JFK International Airport mid-day on Monday, Her Royal Highness was whisked away by police escort to the ESU headquarters in midtown Manhattan. She was greeted by our staff and met with beneficiaries of our educational programs. Presented to the Princess were new immigrants and English language learners, tutors and teachers, National Shakespeare Competition winners, TLab and Secondary School Exchange scholars and Middle School Debate participants who shared with her how the ESU has enriched their lives.

And then, after only a very brief retreat to the UK Consulate, Her Royal Highness joined ESU Board, members and friends for a Gala dinner at the Cosmopolitan Club to congratulate the recipients of the inaugural 2020 Princess Royal Awards and bestow the 2022 Awards to three honorees – Dr. Loveday Conquest, Mrs. Natalie Pray and Dr. Julia Churchill Van de Water.

On the occasion of the ESU’s Centennial in 2020, the British Cabinet Office, with the approval of The Princess Royal, established the Princess Royal Award to recognize “significant contributions to the English-Speaking Union in its wider global setting.” The 2022 Princess Royal Award recipients have been extraordinary champions of the ESU embodying the true purpose of this high honor.

Another highlight of the evening program was the unveiling of the Dr. Paul Beresford-Hill National Shakespeare Competition Cup, on the occasion of the Competition’s 40th anniversary. The historic hallmarked silver cup is presented every year to the winner of the annual ESU National Shakespeare Competition to recognize the excellence of the winner and the academic institution that nurtured them.

In her remarks, the Princess Royal commended the ESU’s commitment to building bridges among people and expanding opportunities through the English language. The ESU’s programs for English language learners were of special interest to her as she was singularly impressed by the ESU volunteers who “have just taken a little extra time and interest to make somebody else’s life work better.”

Her Royal Highness’ visit was a proud moment for the English-Speaking Union. Her visit cast a spotlight on our educational programs that have changed the lives of thousands of U.S. students, teachers, English language learners and ESU members. It also increased the ESU’s visibility and introduced the organization to a number of new members and supporters. The Gala’s live broadcast was watched by members in the U.S. and around the world, from New Zealand, to Mauritius, Mongolia, Lithuania, Serbia, France and the UK.

Learn more

The Bard’s Queens on Board

ESU 2023 National Shakespeare Competition 40th Anniversary Tour

The ESU 2023 “The Bard’s Queens on Board” National Patron Tour celebrated the 40th anniversary of the ESU’s beloved National Shakespeare Competition and provided support for all ESU educational programs.

This voyage was the first of the ESU’s re-imagined exclusive National Patron Tours to destinations and experiences connected to the ESU’s history, programs and cultural traditions. The National Patron Tours are designed to engage and thrill the ESU’s most loyal supporters, celebrate its achievements and raise funds for the ESU’s programs and activities.

Under the theme of The Bard’s Queens on Board, the voyage offered the perfect mix of intellectual stimulation, elegant travel and sheer fun in the company of old and new friends.

The remarkable journey began with a transatlantic crossing aboard the majestic Queen Mary 2, the world’s last ocean liner. As the group sailed across the Atlantic, participants immersed themselves in the grandeur and elegance of this iconic ship, creating cherished memories that would last a lifetime.

During the crossing, ESU resident Shakespeare expert Dr. Catherine Loomis shared her unparalleled knowledge and insights into the Bard’s extraordinary works. These engaging discussions transported participants to the vibrant world of Shakespearean theater, enriching their understanding of his timeless masterpieces and igniting a renewed passion for his literary genius.

On shore, the travelers delighted in privileged access to unique places and people made possible by the ESU’s network of connections built over a century. The Bard’s Queens theme continued with visits to Hever Castle, ancestral home to Anne Boleyn; Knole at Sevenoaks, home to young Mary Tudor, later Mary I; and Hatfield House, Queen Elizabeth I’s favorite residence. At Knole and Hatfield House, the group was greeted by the owners themselves who shared family stories that go back centuries and opened the doors to private rooms not generally accessible to the public.

On the program were also a performance at Shakespeare’s Globe and visits to the National Portrait Gallery and the British Library for a view of the First Folio which in 2023 celebrated its 400th anniversary.

For the grand finale, the group celebrated the ESU National Shakespeare Competition’s anniversary at Dartmouth House, home of our sister organization, the English-Speaking Union of the Commonwealth. The travelers toured this historic house, raised a toast in the elegant Courtyard and enjoyed a sumptuous dinner in the Drawing Room, entertained by youth from the summer’s Shakespeare competition, a newly launched program by Dartmouth House, inspired by our own Competition.

Learn more

Since 2020

Happy Hour Series

In response to the COVID-19 world, in July of 2020 ESU members got together to introduce the virtual Happy Hour Program, which has been met with resounding success. The Happy Hour Program brings guest speakers from locations all over the world, live and free of charge using the Zoom format.

And to make it a real happy hour, a few of the speakers suggest signature cocktails to match the theme for the attendees to create and enjoy at home during their presentations. Many speakers also offer exciting participation opportunities with fun give-away books and products at the end of each program.

All Happy Hour events are recorded and available for download to members and anyone interested to watch on-demand.

Seasons 5 and 6 of the ESU Happy Hour Series included 15 exciting installments. The wide-ranging topics of the lectures reflected the diverse interests of our membership. From history to literature, architecture, wine and even a celebration of King Charles III’s coronation, these lively virtual gatherings entertained, educated and inspired.

Seasons 5 & 6 Happy Hour Series Lectures

  • Churchill at War on the River Nile with James Muller
  • The Last Brahmin with Luke Nichtek
  • Sisters in Arms with Jeremy Crang
  • Victoria & Albert Art Collection with Carly Collier
  • England Before the Norman Conquest: History and Historical Vision, or, What Do We Know and How Do We Know It? With Dr. Bob Hanning
  • Christmas Pantomime with James Stebbings
  • Port Wines with Dr. Phil Williams
  • Weird Moby-Dick with Dr. Hester Blum
  • Architecture in London, 1066-1800 with Dr. James Glass
  • The London of Sherlock Holmes with Dr. Annamarie Dall’Anese
  • Churchill Mobilizing the English Language and Sending It Into Battle with Allen Packwood
  • Kipling’s Kim: The Great Game and Real Spies with David Richards
  • Flora Macdonald: Scottish Heroine, American Loyalist and My Namesake with Flora Fraser
  • A Bourbon Tasting: Evan Williams Virtual Bourbon Experience
  • A Special ESU Happy Hour of Coronation Tributes
Watch Seasons 5 + 6
15
140

Since 1920

Evelyn Wrench Speaker Series

The Evelyn Wrench Speaker Series, named for ESU founder Sir Evelyn Wrench, brings speakers to ESU Branches throughout the United States over the course of one to two weeks. As part of the program, many renowned historians, politicians and authors have presented their work to ESU members and the general public. Lectures cover a wide range of topics, including but not limited to: current events; history; language and literature; art and architecture; and travel.

Longtime educator and ESU Member Dr. Jane Gabin began our 2022-2023 Wrench Season. She has participated in numerous academic conferences and lectured extensively throughout the United States and abroad. Though she speaks extensively on many topics, our Members were most eager to hear her expert presentations on Elizabeth Banks: The New Woman on Fleet Street and American Women in Victorian London.

During the spring of 2023, we were honored to welcome Professor James Raven, former Chair (and current Deputy Chair) of the English-Speaking Union of the Commonwealth. Yet before he began his over 40 years of service to the ESU, he came to the US as a scholar with the ESU in the UK, part of the ESU student exchange program that still thrives today. In a richly illustrated lecture, Professor Raven captivated audiences with his talk on The History of the Book.

Later in the spring, ESU Branches welcomed Andrew Halls OBE. Having spent over 20 years as principal to UK’s most prestigious schools, he was awarded an OBE for services to education in Her Majesty The Queen’s 2020 New Year’s Honours List. His lectures Was Charles Dickens a Misogynist? and Dickens: The Empathetic Psychopath explored the darker side of Dickens’s mind and behavior, and the lessons we can learn from him.

Learn more

Since 2011

Middle School Debate

In partnership with Claremont McKenna College and launched with support from the National Endowment for the Humanities, the ESU Middle School Public Debate Program teaches students in grades 5–8 fundamentals of critical thinking and language arts skills through public speaking. The ESU Middle School Debate is unique in that it maximizes the learning and skill-building outcomes by extensive coach and judge training and an adaptation of the parliamentary model of debate for middle-schoolers. The program reaches students at one of the most sensitive times of their development. It enhances their academic performance in language, math and science classes and builds discipline, collaboration and tolerance of different viewpoints. It appeals to both boys and girls, which are almost evenly represented in the ESU leagues.

The program provides students with opportunities to hone their public speaking skills through preparation for and participation in weekend debate tournaments. For the 2022-23 season, all the ESU New York, Garden State and Jersey Shore Debate Leagues were excited to return to in-person tournaments. Depending on the league, these occur 3-6 times throughout the academic year. The students work hard and look forward to the all-day tournaments. They provide a unique chance to travel to other schools, bond with each other and interact with and learn from their peers.

The ESU is fortunate to work closely with a dedicated team of coaches/teachers and volunteer judges to support and grow the leagues. Mentorship is an important part of the ESU Middle School Public Debate program with older students serving as judges and mentoring, and more established schools and debate programs welcoming and nurturing new. In addition, the ESU NY Debate League welcomed a Novice division with a Workshop for novice students and judges prior to the start of the Tournament season.

Learn more
1,900
1,850
36,500
400

International Public Speaking Competition

The International Public Speaking Competition (IPSC) brings the best young speakers aged 16-20 from all over the world together for a week of public speaking workshops, competition and cultural exchange in London hosted by the ESU of the Commonwealth. Each year, over 40,000 students from 50 countries participate. In spring 2023, the ESU US was proud to have Md Zaman, a high school senior from Lanier High School in Sugar Hill Georgia, represent the United States from May 13-17, 2023 for the first in-person competition since Covid.

The majority of the public speaking workshops occurred at Dartmouth House, the ESU’s International Headquarters in Mayfair with the Finals taking place at The Royal Institution. The National/ Regional theme was: “Relations between nations are too important to be left to governments alone.” The theme for the prepared speech heats of the International Competition was “You don’t get a second chance to make a first impression.” The collegial and collaborative format of the ESU IPSC and public speaking workshops emphasizes research, organization and presentation skills. Participation in the competition promotes confidence, critical thinking and cultural understanding. It expands participants’ horizons and gives them the unique opportunity to build international friendships.

Learn more

Since 2013

Andrew Romay New Immigrant Center (ARNIC)

The Andrew Romay New Immigrant Center (ARNIC) is a free program that facilitates the full integration of immigrants, asylum seekers and refugees into U.S. life. The program provides immigrants with the tools and resources to overcome barriers and build successful lives in the U.S. The center offers English classes, career services and opportunities for civic and cultural learning. The program is grounded in a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. Each year we serve 350+ new immigrants. More than 2,500 immigrants from 60+ countries have benefited from our services since the center opened its doors.

This was a year of consolidation, innovation and growth. We launched a comprehensive workforce development program to support new immigrants in navigating the U.S. job market. This new initiative equips immigrants with the skills and resources to prepare for jobs in our changing economy and to overcome barriers to success.

The program includes a one-to-one professional mentoring program, individual career advising and job-readiness English classes. It has had a significant impact on new immigrants. Participants in the new mentoring program experienced a 23% decrease in unemployment. By the end of the program, 88% reported that they understood how to find a job in the U.S.

The ESU national headquarters has once again become a vibrant and welcoming center for new immigrants. Our hybrid program combines the accessibility of online activities with the benefits of in-person learning.

Learn more

Life introduced me to ARNIC, this outstanding school with its excellent programs, teachers, andstaff, who helped all my fear and ignorance disappear gradually.

- Student from Cuba

395
100%
87%
93%

Since 1976

English in Action

English in Action (EiA) helps newcomers to the U.S. improve their English language skills and build confidence. Students and volunteers meet weekly for one-to-one conversation practice. At the heart of the program is a commitment to cross-cultural exchange. Students gain insight into life in the U.S. Volunteers learn about different cultures and support immigrants, refugees and other newcomers building new lives in this country. The program offers a safe and inclusive space to acquire the language skills to navigate everyday life, access basic services and communicate effectively in professional settings and daily life. A hallmark of the program is its comprehensive tutor training using best practices in cross-cultural learning and leadership development.

English in Action continues to grow and expand into new areas. English in Action now offers both online and in-person volunteer opportunities, attracting new volunteers and providing more options for our students.

The new initiative, English in Action Across America, opens the program to ESU Branch members across the U.S. who are interested in volunteering. ESU members can now connect online with this meaningful and exciting program.

Learn more
38,000
95%
90%
95%
94%

Since 1983

National Shakespeare Competition

The ESU National Shakespeare Competition is a performance-based education program supported by ESU branches across the country, in which high school students read, analyze and perform Shakespeare’s works in three qualifying stages: school, ESU Branch and national. In the process, students develop analytical and communication skills, build confidence and learn to appreciate the power of the spoken word. Since 1983, more than 420,000 students have brought the timeless works of Shakespeare to life.

The 40th Anniversary National Shakespeare Competition

On April 24, 2023, the ESU’s 40th Anniversary National Shakespeare Competition was held in-person at Lincoln Center in New York City. Forty-one high school semi-finalists came from all over the country, along with parents, Branch coordinators, teachers and supporters to compete. Returning with much anticipation as an in-person event for the first time since 2019, the 40th Anniversary National Shakespeare Competition was a great success!

With her performances of Sonnet 14 and Lady Macbeth in Macbeth, Elena Hollenbeak of the ESU Hawaii Branch won the 40th Annual National Shakespeare Competition. She was a student of Lyn Ackerman at St. Andrews School–The Priory. As the first-place winner, Elena won a scholarship to the British American Drama Academy Program in London. Lyn Ackerman received the $1,000 ESU Teacher Recognition award.

Casey Kerr of the ESU Central Florida Branch took second place with her performances of Bottom in A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Sonnet 81. As the second-place winner, Casey attended the American Shakespeare Center Theatre Camp in Staunton, Virginia.

Nicole Beverly Chien of the ESU New York City Branch won third-place for their rendition of Prince Hal in Henry IV and Sonnet 130. Nicole took home a cash prize of $1,000.

The ESU was proud to continue the People’s Choice Award in 2023, which attracted close to 8,000 votes from around the world. The recipient of the $1000 People’s Choice Award, generously provided by the ESU Cleveland Branch, was Pierre Beatrix Madlangbayan of the ESU Kansas City Branch, student of Robyn Hilt at Garden City High School, who received 565 votes. In second place, with 475 votes, Tucker Claremont of the ESU Naples Branch took home a $500 prize. In third place, with 365 votes, Victoria Salazar of the ESU San Francisco Branch took home a $250 prize.

The 2023 Competition judges included the following renowned members of the theater community: Reese Antoinette, an actress, advocate and interdisciplinary artist; James Elliott, an actor and director with three decades of experience; Diana Green, Founder and former Artistic Director of The Children’s Shakespeare Theatre; Melinda Hall, an artist and creator of the Annual Shakespeare’s Birthday Sonnet Slam; Dana Ivey, a five-time Tony nominee and star of the Broadway stage and screen; Dr. Catherine Loomis, author and Shakespeare scholar; and Sara Topham, a Broadway actress who recently starred in Tom Stoppard’s Leopoldstadt on Broadway.

The ESU provided the forty-one semi-finalists with a weekend of educational and cultural activities in New York City, including an acting workshop at the English-Speaking Union National Headquarters in midtown, a double-decker bus tour of New York City and a performance of The Play That Goes Wrong on Broadway. Perhaps best of all for these teenagers was the opportunity to spend a weekend in New York City with other students from across the country who share a love of Shakespeare.

The ESU National Shakespeare Competition has been recognized by the Globe Center, the Children’s Theatre Foundation of America and the American Academy of Achievement.

Learn more

Since 1957

Teachers Learning Abroad (TLab)

The ESU is one of the only organizations that offers scholarships to teachers to study abroad. Each summer through the generosity and dedication of ESU Branches nationwide, TLab Scholarships are awarded to local middle and high school teachers for summer study in the United Kingdom for 2–6 weeks to expand their educational and cultural horizons. Teachers have the opportunity to become college students again and live at Oxford University and Edinburgh University where they can study English literature, history, creative writing, theater and international politics. Or they can be up on their feet learning how to “Teach Shakespeare Through Performance” at Shakespeare’s Globe in London. Not only do they earn valuable continuing professional development credits, they return inspired and eager to share their knowledge with their students, colleagues, and ESU Branches. Many of the teachers go on to become actively involved in their ESU Branches and facilitate the ESU National Shakespeare Competition at schools across the country.

Learn more
2,800
39+
$240,000

Teachers Learning Abroad courses:

University of Edinburgh
  • Text and Context: Modernism, Scottish Literature, and Contemporary Literature
  • Creative Writing
  • Theatre and Performance
Oxford University
  • English Literature
  • History, Politics, and Society
  • Creative Writing
  • International Politics
Shakespeare's Globe
  • Teaching Shakespeare Through Performance

Since 2013

Travel and Learn Abroad (TLab for Lifelong Learners)

The TLab for Lifelong Learners Program opens up to ESU Branch members the international, educational and cultural opportunities previously only available to our middle and high school teachers. The ESU offers 1-week programs in the UK that provide lectures by renowned scholars, behind-the scenes tours, access to archives not open to the public and the company of intellectually curious, worldly and adventurous fellow travelers. Past trips have included Dickens’ London and Shakespeare’s Stratford-Upon-Avon. Due to Covid, the programs were cancelled in 2022. The ESU continues to work closely with Shakespeare’s Birthplace Trust and is looking forward to offering the Page to Stage program in July 2023 and additional 1-week Oxford Experience programs in a wide range of humanities courses throughout July and August at Christ Church College.

Learn more

Since 1928

Luard Morse Scholarships

The ESU Luard Morse Scholarship is a merit-based grant that provides up to $25,000 scholarship towards a semester of study at a British University during their junior year. The scholarship is available only to American students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities in the United States. The ESU Luard Morse 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. Since the inaugural 1969-1970 academic year, 88 exceptional students have been awarded scholarships to study at 18 universities including Oxford, Cambridge and the London School of Economics.

The 2022-23 ESU Luard Morse Scholar Mr. Shang Andrews II, a Computer Engineering  Major at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University in Greensboro, NC, studied at Queen Mary University of London Spring Semester 2023. Not only did Shang have the opportunity to meet students from around the world, but also meet other ESU students, members and Alum at the House of Commons reception and dinner.

Learn more

Since 1969

Secondary School Exchange Scholarship (SSE)

The ESU Secondary School Exchange Scholarship (SSE) is a merit-based scholarship that provides tuition, room and board for US and UK students to spend a semester or year (Gap Year) abroad between high school and college. Since its inception in 1928, the ESU of the United States and ESU of the Commonwealth have worked closely together to provide the scholarship opportunity for thousands of students to expand their horizons academically and culturally by studying at secondary schools in the US and UK. The oldest of all our educational programs, the SSE is at the heart of the ESU mission to use the English language to foster global understanding and goodwill through cultural and educational exchanges. Through this experience, students gain maturity, independence and global perspectives that benefit them in college and in their future careers.

Twelve students were able to “cross the pond” to live and study during the 2022/23 academic year in the United States and United Kingdom. In London, US students were given a private tour of the House of Commons by SSE Alumnus Kane Emmerson before joining ESU members and Alumni for a reception and dinner. Jasmine Sandhar, SSE Culver alumna spoke at the event.

Learn more

2023 Consolidated Financial Report

Condensed Statement of Activities

July 1, 2022-June 30, 2023

This fiscal year 2023 financial presentation is the audited financial report of the consolidated ESU, including all 65 branches and national operations.

Revenue
Contributions 
$880,959
Investment Income allocated to Operations 
$768,446
Membership 
$276,325
Earned Revenue
$240,669
Speakers & Conferences 
$440,888
Special Events (net of event expenses)
$424,550
Other Revenue
$187,844
Total Revenue
$3,219,681
Total Revenue
Total Expenses
Expenses
Program Services
Immigrant & Education Programs
$1,847,309
Membership and Branch Services
$362,214
Branch Events & Meetings & Communications
$495,366
Speakers & Conferences
$104,700
Total Program Expenses
$2,809,589
Supporting Services
Management & General
$845,762
Fundraising
$80,352
Total Program Expenses
$926,114
Total Expenses
$3,735,703
Assets as of 6/30/2023
Cash and cash equivalents 
$1,725,457
Investments held by National, at fair value
$12,391,441
Investments held by Branches, at fair value
$7,954,993
Headquarter’s building
$3,288,155
Other*
$589,126
Total Assets
$25,949,172

* includes: certificates of deposit, accounts receivable, prepaid expenses and other assets, and office equipment (net of accumulated depreciation)

Assets
Liabilities & Net Assets
Liabilities and Net Assets
Liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
$457,340
Capital lease payable
$7,898
Total Liabilities
$465,238
Net Assets
Without Donor Restriction
Investments in HQ building & equipment
$3,315,178
Board designated
$9,706,420
Undesignated
$6,409,044
Total Net Assets w/o restriction
$19,430,642
With donor restriction
Time and purpose restricted
$3,166,071
Perpetual in nature
$2,887,221
Total Net Assets w/ restriction
$6,053,292
Total Liabilities & Net Assets
$25,949,172

With Thanks to Our Donors

July 1, 2022 – June 30, 2023

* Individuals who generously participated in the English-Speaking Union National Patron Program providing unrestricted operating support to the ESU and its Branches.

Leadership Circle

$100,000 or more

Marietta & Andrew Romay Foundation

Mother Cabrini Health Foundation

Visionaries' Society

$20,000 - $99,999

The Achelis and Bodman Foundation

Mr. Donald A. Best*

Mrs. David Jamison McDaniel *

Mrs. Natalie T. Pray MBE*

Walter Hines Page Society

$10,000 - $19,999

Dr. Paul Beresford-Hill, CBE, KSt.J*

Susan Ferris *

The Jesse & Dorothy Hartman Foundation 

Ms. Karen Karpowich and Mr. Ian Calderon*

Dr. Mary R. Lee*

Dr. E. Quinn Peeper and Mr. Michael D. Harold *

National Fellows

$5,000 - $9,999

Axe-Houghton Foundation 

Mr. and Mrs. Stuart Baker *

Ms. Allison Bond-Miller in memory of Mr. Dale E. Bond 

Mr. and Mrs. William W. Caruth III *

ESU Central Florida 

ESU Cleveland 

Dr. Loveday Conquest and Mr. Fred Kleinschmidt *

ESU Denver 

Dr. Laurence C. Morse and Ms. Pamela McKoin *

Mr. Jeffrey L. Schnabel and Ms. Sandy Everett *

Mr. Noel Sloan *

Dr. and Mrs. James Stark *

Dr. Julia Churchill Van de Water *

Chairman's Circle

$2,500 - $4,999

Mr. Randall C. Abrams 

Dr. Cheryl Albuquerque *

Betty Rossell McGowin Charitable Trust 

Mr. and Mrs. Stewart B. Clifford *

Mr. Charles T. Munger, Jr./CNC Foundation 

The Joseph S. and Louise B. Rumbaugh Fund of the Community Foundation of Broward County

G.A.P. Activity Project, Mountbatten Internship Program 

Mrs. Barbara W. Hughes *

Mr. and Mrs. Stephen B. Jeffries *

Mrs. F. Christina Mangum *

Mr. David Martinelli and Ms. Nicola Partridge *

Mr. William B. Maschmeier *

Mr. Darryl R. McCormick *

Ms. Bettie M. Miller *

Mountbatten Institute 

Mrs. Gloria Norris *

Mr. Nathan M. Perlmutter 

PNC Foundation 

Dr. and Mrs. George W. Ray III *

Ms. Sally Richards *

Ms. Michelle Seale *

Westminster People

Vice Chairman’s Circle

$1,500 - $2,499

Ms. Jacqueline Abrams *

Mr. Paul T. Boghosian *

Mr. and Mrs. John Boubelik *

Ms. Leila Caithness *

Mr. and Mrs. Paul K. Caplis *

Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Caruso *

Mr. and Mrs. Anthony H. Cowan, FRAES *

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas E. Doughty *

Mr. A. Wayne Falcone *

Mrs. Ashley Ganz *

Mr. Steve Haedicke and Dr. Janet V. Haedicke *

Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Hollingsworth *

Mr. and Mrs. Richard S. Kelly, Jr. *

Mr. Keith W. Lerch *

Mr. and Mrs. Frederick London *

Mrs. Donna M. Miller *

Dr. Toni J. Morris *

Mr. and Mrs. Martin Padley *

Ms. Laura Pedersen

Dr. Susan Robin Sinclair *

President's Circle

$1,000 - $1,499

Dr. Karen Blair-Brand *

Mrs. Barbara Callahan *

Ms. Judith Carpenter *

ESU Charleston  

Ms. Suzanne Darling *

Ms. Katherine de Montluzin *

Ms. Elizabeth R. Etoll *

Mr. Timothy L. Fields and Mr. Chris Bergeaux *

Mr. William C. Fuller, Jr. 

Ms. Susan Gibson *

Mrs. Julia Hansen *

Mr. Jeffery L. Hedges 

Dr. Jerry Huff *

Dr. and Mrs. Dentcho Ivanov *

Ms. Dana Ivey *

Dr. Susan A. Lancaster *

Prof. Mark Lawhorn and Ms. Lynn Haff *

Mr. and Mrs. Leander McCormick-Goodhart *

Ms. Patricia Ann Moore *

Mr. Stephen Murray, Jr. *

Mr. and Mrs. Bennet Muse *

Ms. Natalie Nimerala 

Mr. and Mrs. Adam Ogburn *

Prof. Clarke F. O'Reilly, Jr. and  Ms. Ana Diaconu *

Anne S. Pincus and Ronald Pincus 

Prof. Brian Abel Ragen, Ph.D. *

Mr. Robert W. Robinson 

Mr. Daniel C. Rodgers and Ms. Cybele Gontar *

Hon. Gerald W. Scott 

Mrs. Stanley Deforest Scott *

Mrs. Lucy Thomas 

Mr. and Mrs. Bruce E. Thompson *

Mr. John Michael Thornton and Ms. Donna Altieri *

Mrs. Frederick W. Toohey *

Mrs. Maurice Villere *

Mr. Norman Volk*‡ and Mrs. Alicia Volk*

Dr. Suzy M. Wakefield and Mr. Jay S. Wakefield *

Mrs. Stewart B. Clifford* and Mr. Stewart B. Clifford *‡

Dr. and Mrs. Ralph Wyndrum *

National Sustainer

$750 - $999

Mr. and Mrs. Randy Brannen *

Dr. Gregory W. Buck *

Ms. Alison Claremont 

Miss Barbara M. Deacon *

Mrs. Linn Ginsler *

Mr. Kevin Glynn *

Mr. Karl D. Jackson 

Ms. Susan Merritt Nelsen *

Mr. Gary S. Oaks *

Mrs. Ingrid Philbrick *

Mrs. Margaret Steed *

Ms. Linda Tancs and Mr. Barry Panzarino *

National Sponsor

$500 - $749

Ms. Lelia Armstrong *

Mr. Henry Bell III*‡ and Mrs. Pamela Bell*

Mr. and Mrs. Lee E. Black *

Blackbaud Giving Fund 

Dr. James B. Broadhurst *

Mrs. Bruce Burton *

Dr. John M. Carland 

Mr. Charles E. Clapp III *

Mr. and Mrs. Philip G. Cox *

Mrs. Jean H. Davison *

Mr. and Mrs. Robert V. Demarco *

Mr. Guy B. Dixon 

Dr. and Mrs. David A. Dooley *

Mr. and Mrs. Jean Paul Elard *

Ms. Margaretta S. Frederick *

Deloris Grant, Ph.D. *

Mrs. Barbara N. Grant *

Ms. Nicole A. Halbreiner *

Mr. and Mrs. George O. Hillard, III *

Ms. Karlee Hilliard *

Mr. and Mrs. David Kepner *

Ms. Annette S. Kirby *

Mrs. John  Peter Labouisse *

Mr. and Mrs. H. Pettus LeCompte *

Mr. Mark Bennett Levine and Mr. John H. Keppeler *

Mr. Jonathan S. Linker 

Mr. and Mrs. Thad Long *

Mrs. Elizabeth M. Loomis in memory of Mr. Richard Loomis 

Ms. Lyn Maness *

Dr. Thomas A. Mason and Ms. Christine H. Guyonneau *

Ms. Janice D. McClure *

Ms. Leslie H. Newman *

Mr. Abebayo Ogunlesi 

Mr. and Mrs. Louis Patalano 

Dr. and Mrs. Donald M. Pattillo *

ESU Philadelphia 

Mrs. Quinland Daniels Porter *

Mr. Lawrence Raymond 

Mr. and Mrs. Charles D. Reaves *

Mrs. Rebecca Reynolds and Mr. Peter Reynolds *

Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Roberson *

Dr. and Mrs. Donald J. Rosato *

Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Roxe *

Dr. Marilyn Moffat Salant *

Mr. and Mrs. Claude Schlesinger *

Mr. and Mrs. Terrance A. Secker *

Mr. and Mrs. Richard Smarg *

Mr. and Mrs. Christopher St. Victor de-Pinho *

Drs. Jane and Austin Sumner *

Drs. Jane and Austin Sumner *

Mr. and Mrs. W. Sloan Upton *

Mr. and Mrs. Dan Van Horn 

Mr. and Mrs. Xanny Vargas 

Mr. and Mrs. J. Otey Walker III *

Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Webster *

Mr. and Mrs. James Wesner *

Dr. and Mrs. James P. Wilson *

National Donor

$300 - $499

American Online Giving Foundation 

Ms. Geraldine Backer *

Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Baring *

Ms. Sylvia Barnard *

Dr. Christopher Beardsley and Mrs. Sarah Beardsley *

Mr. Roy Bourne *

Mr. and Mrs. John G.B. Boyd *

Mr. and Mrs. Bryant W. Bozarth *

Ms. Virginia Brody *

Mr. Michael Brown *

Ms. Ruth Brown *

Ms. Winifred Brown 

Ms. Elizabeth Anne Buzzell, FRSA,ASA (Ret.) *

Mr. and Mrs. Edward W. Callahan *

Mrs. Jill Campbell *

Mr. and Mrs. Carlo Capomazza di Campolattaro *

Mr. Matthew E. Cheek *

Mr. Delbert Chumley, Jr. *

Mrs. Elizabeth Clarke *

Ms. Dorothy Clyne *

Ms. Caroline Coles *

Mrs. Susan L. Couvillon *

Mr. and Mrs. L. Thomas Cox *

Dr. Rennie W. Culver and Ms. Beth Goddard *

Mr. Arthur Curtze *

Mr. Jack Darrell *

Mr. Jeffrey L. Davis and Mr. Richard Shapiro *

Mr. and Mrs. Robert DeFer *

Mr. and Mrs. Darrell DeMoss *

Ms. Alta Devivo *

Ms. Sharon Divell *

Mrs. Imogene Draper *

Mrs. Prescott N. Dunbar *

Dr. and Mrs. Charles Dupin *

Ms. Frances Eldred *

Mr. Tony Elms and Ms. Joyce Reehling *

Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey D. English *

Ms. Susan A. Estabrook *

Dr. and Mrs. James P. Fadely *

Mr. Peter D. Farnham and Ms. Barbara Walker *

Mrs. Sallie Van Pelt Feild *

Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Z. Fleming *

Mr. and Mrs. Tench Forbes *

Ms. Sofie D. Franzen-Moyle *

Mr. and Mrs. Douglas K. Freeman *

Mr. William Goldyn *

Dr. and Mrs. John L. Gordon, Jr. *

Mr. and Mrs. Bruce A. Gordon *

Mrs. Pamela Grabczynski-Voss *

Mr. and Mrs. F. David Grissett *

Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Grundmeyer *

Mrs. Cornelia Gundlach *

Mr. and Mrs. Paul D. Harrington *

Mr. and Mrs. Wyatt R. Haskell *

Mrs. Phyllis G. Heard *

Mr. and Mrs. Paul F. Hoch *

Mr. Pace Taylor Huff *

Dr. and Mrs. Ernest E. Hunt *

Mrs. Lyn Hurlock *

Mr. Thomas H. Huss *

Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Husson *

Ms. Alice J. Irby *

Mr. and Mrs. Drew Jardine *

Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Jarosz *

Mr. Allan D. Jergesen *

Mr. and Mrs. William Henry Jernigan *

Dr. and Mrs. William H. Johnston *

Prof. and Mrs. John Philip Jones *

Mr. William J.D. Jordan *

Ms. Marjorie T. Julian *

Mr. Leo Kayser III *

Mr. and Mrs. Peter S. Kelley *

Mr. and Mrs. William F. Kemp *

Mr. William Kennedy and Ms. Allyn Rosser *

Mrs. Lou C. Kerr *

Ms. Judith King *

Mr. and Mrs. Robert E. Leak *

Mrs. Gordon B. LeGrand *

Ms. Sheila W. Leith *

Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Deane Leonard *

Mrs. Kathryn Lerch *

Dr. and Mrs. Edmund M. Lesko *

Dr. William M. Long *

Mr. Philip D. Lorio, III *

Mrs. Martine Lowe 

Mr. and Mrs. Ron Luke, J.D., Ph.D. *

Mr. and Mrs. Kevin G. Mackey *

Mr. and Mrs. Charles H. Maddrey *

Mr. John T. Magill *

Dr. Kenneth Mann and Dr. Naomi Mann *

Mr. and Mrs. Joseph H. McLure *

Mr. and Mrs. J.R. Moock, Jr. *

Mr. and Mrs. Luther Moore *

Mrs. Jean Morris *

Mr. and Mrs. Clive Muncaster *

Mr. and Mrs. Rick C. Normand *

Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Oliver *

Mr. Matt Pantaleoni *

Ms. Lee Parfrey *

Mrs. Dorianne B. Parker *

Mr. and Mrs. George Lee Parson *

Mr. James Paszkiewicz *

Mr. Richard B. Payne, Jr. and\ Ms. Mary Stafford *

Mr. Davidson A. Perry-Miller *

Mrs. Jean Bruce Poole *

Mr. and Mrs. J. David Pugh *

Mrs. Jan Querbes, III *

Mr. Jonathan D. Rabinowitz *

Mr. John Raffaele *

Mrs. James D. Raisbeck *

Ms. Julia S. Rankin *

Ms. Stephanie Rocha 

Mr. W. Barton Roe *

Mr. and Mrs. Greg Rohan *

Mr. Joe Sapora and Ms. Carol Ducas *

Mr. and Mrs. John R. Sapp *

Mr. and Mrs. Stephen G. Schweller *

Dr. and Mrs. Robert Sevier *

Mr. and Mrs. Robert Shea *

Mrs. Jeanne Smith *

Mr. John South and Ms. Dianne Herrick *

Dr. Carol Spalding and Dr. Francis Koster *

Ms. Linda J. Voloshen Spencer *

Mr. and Mrs. Harry C. Stahel *

Mr. and Mrs. R. Curtis Steele *

Mrs. Sainsbury Strack *

Ms. Cecelia Tazelaar *

Mr. and Mrs. Gifford Thomas *

Mr. Addison B. Thompson *

Mrs. James G. Ulmer *

Cedric W. Vogel, Esq. *

Mr. Richard Vonnegut Jr. *

Mr. William F. Wallace *

Ms. JoAnn Wallace *

Katherine K. Walls *

 J. W. Thompson Webb, Esq. *

Dr. Peter D. Weigl and Dr. Ann Weigl 

Ms. Barbara W. Weller *

Mr. and Mrs. Charles M. Whedbee *

Mrs. Lucille C. Whitley *

Mrs. Margot M. Wilkinson *

Dr. and Mrs. Henry P. Williams III *

Ms. Sarah L. Williams *

Ms. Anne J. Willis and Mr. David Teich *

Dr. Peter D. Weigl and Dr. Ann Weigl 

Prof. Elaine Orr Wise *

Mr. and Mrs. John B. Witty *

Prof. Walter F. Wolf, III *

Mr. and Mrs. Philip Woollam *

Mr. Ronald Worth *

Supporter

$100 - $299

Mrs. Winona Aguzin Gibbs

Dr. Mary E. Alexander

Ms. Alejandra Arce Salazar

Mr. Bernard J. Bagert, Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. W. Barry Box

Mr. and Mrs. Randy Brannen

Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bukovac

Mr. and Mrs. Jack Burtch, Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. Gary T. Capen

Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Casey

Hon. & Mrs. Bret Clesi

Mr. Dennis Cockrum and Ms. Stephanie Workman

Mr. J Gregg Collins

Ms. Chris Confessore

Rudolph Steiner School

Ms. Kathryn Cox

Mr. and Mrs. Jerome Dattel

Ms. Cecille Deason

Mr. and Mrs. John R. Dildy

Mr. Kevin Dobbins

Mr. Robert Donaldson

Ms. Deborah Dreyfus

Mr. Peter B. Elliott

Ms. Laura Ethridge

Ms. Jessica Fox

Mr. Omar Frometa

Ms. Susan Hollis Garrett

Ms. Sarah D. Gillespie

Give Lively Foundation

Mr. Charles L. Grant

Dr. Warren G. Hall

Mr. Wilson Hallett

Dr. Leigh Hansen and Mr. Ken Hansen

Mr. Edward J. Hemard III and\ Ms. Martha Vick Robbins

Mr. Douglas Hewlett

Mrs. Patrice Hickox

Ms. Debbie Hill

Mr. Paul Hoffman

Mr. Sean Wesley Holleran and Mr. Lucas Murley

Mrs. Julie Jardine

Ms. Jane Kahn

Ms. Alison Kallman in memory of Dr. Gail Schattner

Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Kasper Chiorini

Ms. Christian Kiley

Ms. Lisa Anne Kressbach

Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Landry

Mr. and Mrs. Frank LaRocca

Mr. and Mrs. Vince Liotta

Livingston High School

Dr. Peter B. Lyon

Mr. Paul Masinter

Mr. and Mrs. Matthew McChesney

Dr. Renee McEldowney

Dr. Christopher Medalis and Mr. Boyan Konstantinov

Mr. and Mrs. David Megenhardt

Mr. Gary Mendoza, Jr.

Ms. Concetta Miller

Ms. Susan Moore

Mr. Gregory Morey and Mr. Scott James

Network For Good

Mrs. Beata M. Newman Scarpulla

Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Nitzken

Mr. Nyi Nyi

Mrs. Charles Peterson

Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Peterson

Mr. and Mrs. Charles Petit

Mr. and Mrs. Martin Pospisil

Mr. Robert H. Redfield

ESU Research Triangle

Ms. Sandra Robert

Mr. Marvin Russell

Mr. Adolfo Salazar

Ms. Lea Salonga and Mr. Victor Lirio

Ms. Pamela Scarlett and Mr. John Dupuy

Mrs. Sharon Schlarb

Ms. Sarah Scott Thomas and Mr. Robert Evans

Mr. Robert B. Semple Jr.

Mr. Edwin S. Shirley

Ms. Omnika Angelique Simmons-Thompson

Mr. and Mrs. Steven J. Simons

Ms. Nannetta B. Smith

Dr. Robert A. Stauffer

Mr. Christopher Tidmore and Ms. Barkley Rafferty

Dr. Francis D. Tuggle and Ms. Anthea Smith

Ms. Irina Ullo

Mr. Preston Valois and Ms. Caroline France

Mr. John C. Vaughey

Mr. George Ward and Ms. Yosande Ward

Ms. Sarah Elliston Weiner

Mr. Joseph Welden

Mr. and Mrs. George West, Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. Julian Wheatley

Mr. Seth W. Whitaker

Mr. and Mrs. Charles S. Wilson

Mr. and Mrs. Dana Yanaway

Dr. and Mrs. Harold Young

Mr. and Mrs. Charles Zatarain, III

Mrs. Leslie Zirolli

Friend

Less than $100

Mr. John W. Ager III

Mr. and Mrs. Rob Andrejko

Ms. Elizabeth Arnold

Mrs. Deborah Bagnetto

Mr. Paul J. Barringer

Ms. Johnna G. Barto

Mr. and Mrs. John Begley

Ms. Yvonne Benn-McElderry

Mr. David B. Brawer

Mr. Richard Cahn

Ms. Elizabeth M. Carroll

Mr. and Mrs. Ralph A. Cohen

Mr. Jonathan Cook

Mr. Chase Coston

Mr. and Mrs. John B. Crawford

Mrs. Patricia Denechaud

Mr. Terrell duCharm

Mr. John W. Ewell

Mr. and Mrs. Scot Fedderly

Ms. Phyllis Feinberg

Ms. Jacqueline Gamble

Mrs. Winona A. Gibbs

Mrs. Suzanne Gladys

Miss Amanda Gordon

Mr. W. Langley Granbery, Jr.

Ms. Roxanne Griffith

Ms. Dana Hansel

Ms. Edith Honig

Mr. David Hopkins

Ms. Kaitlyn Huczko

Mr. Miles Hutton Jacoby

Mrs. Nancy Karapin

Dr. John Michael Kosterlitz

Ms. Cynthia Langguth

Ms. Claire LaNicca

Ms. Blanche Dee McCloskey

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas B. McGowan

Dr. Katharine McIntyre

Ms. Daniela Melgar

Mr. Benjamin Morrison

Mrs. Judith Oudt

Mr. Scott Patteson

Mrs. Mary Alice Phelan

Ms. Susan Phillips and Mr. Stephan Derin

Mr. Douglas Rainey and Ms. Toshiko Uchida

Dr. Ilan Riss and Ms. Belina Riss

Ms. Elizabeth A. Schultz

Ms. Elizabeth C. Sewell

Mr. and Mrs. Richard Sheffe

Ms. Bonnie Singer

Ms. Mary Slatten‡

Ms. Carol A. Spears

Mrs. Laura Sullivan

Ms. Mia Thompson

Mrs. Hazel Turlington

Ms. Jana Walding

Ms. Dorene Watkins

Mr. Alden Watts

Mr. John Weaver

Mr. Jonathan Weinberger

Mr. Charles Eduardo Whitehead

Ms. Janice Williams

Ms. Kimberly Yates

Staff and Board

Officers

Dr. E. Quinn Peeper
Chairman, New Orleans, LA
Mr. Darryl R. McCormick
Vice-Chairman, Stamford, CT
Mr. Duncan Karcher
President, New York, NY

Board of Directors

Ms. Jacqueline Abrams
Winter Park, FL
Dr. Cheryl Albuquerque
Palo Alto, CA
Mr. Donald Best
Los Angeles, CA
Hon. Geneive Brown Metzger
Boca Raton, FL
Mrs. Barbara Callahan
Palm Beach, FL
Dr. Julia Churchill Van de Water
Lexington, VA
Ms. Susan Matheson Ferris
Portland, OR
Dr. Janet V. Haedicke
Monroe, LA
Mrs. Barbara W. Hughes
Winter Park, FL
Ms. Dana Ivey
New York, NY
Mr. Frederick London
New York, NY
Mr. David Martinelli
New York, NY
Ms. Bettie Miller
Chapman, AL
Dr. Jill T Richardson, PhD
Brooklyn, NY
Mr. Buce E, Thompson
Gibsonia, PA
Mr. Noel Sloan
Salisbury, CT
Dr. Ralph Wyndrum
Fair Haven, NJ

Staff

Elizabeth Bigelow
Branch Coordinator
Grace Darling
Marketing and Communications Coordinator
Anthony DiFilippo
Controller
Karl Hart
Senior Manager, Student Services
Matthew Hudson
Manager, Volunteer Services
Karen Karpowich
Executive Director
Rebecca Liberman
Executive Assistant
Stephan Lubrun
Operations/IT
Assistant Manager
Kathryn Morrisett
Membership Secretary and
Database Manager
Bao Nguyen
Branches Bookkeeper
Jenny Nguyen
National Bookkeeper
Maria Pyaterneva
Receptionist
Alice Uhl
Education Programs Director, International Scholarships and Debate
Deborah Unger
Executive Assistant
Laura Van der Hyde
Marketing Manager
Rona Weitz
Director, Immigrant Programs
Noel Williamson
Facilities, Porter

Copyright ©2024 The English-Speaking Union of the United States. All Rights Reserved