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Chairman's August Newsletter

National News

A Message from Chairman Dr. Quinn Peeper

Dear Friends,

An exciting event is on the horizon! I'm eager to tell you about the upcoming ESU 2024 Annual General Meeting in Cleveland, Ohio, October 18-20. This year's conference promises to be an extraordinary occasion. It will be held in conjunction with the ESU of the Commonwealth's International Council Meeting, bringing to Cleveland representatives of ESUs from around the world. We will be able to collaborate directly with our international counterparts, exchange ideas, strengthen our global network, and celebrate our shared mission.

A series of substantive meetings and workshops focused on our organization's future will be an important part of the conference agenda. But I am especially excited about the fantastic cultural and social program that's in store for us.

As we explore Cleveland, you'll be amazed by the treasures this city holds.

We'll wander through the halls of the Cleveland Museum of Art, marveling at millennia of human creativity. From ancient Egyptian artifacts to cutting-edge contemporary pieces, it's a feast for the eyes and the mind.

For music lovers, we have a treat in store at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. We'll have a chance to relive the history of rock music and maybe even rediscover some forgotten favorites.

And speaking of music, the crown jewel of our cultural program awaits on Saturday night. We'll have the option to enjoy a performance of Mahler Symphony No. 3 by the Cleveland Orchestra – one of America's "Big Five" – at Severance Hall, widely regarded as one of the world's greatest concert halls, renowned for its acoustic perfection and breathtaking beauty.

The conference will also offer ample occasions to reconnect with old friends and make new ones from around the globe.

On Friday night, a reception and dinner hosted by our international counterparts, the ESU of the Commonwealth's International Council, will welcome all of us to Cleveland.

On Saturday night we'll gather for the traditional ESU National Patron Reception at the Tinkham Veale University Center Ballroom next door to Severance Hall, where we will celebrate the ESU's most loyal and generous members, our National Patrons.

And the Sunday closing luncheon, hosted by the ESU Cleveland Branch, will feature Matt Weinkam, writer, editor, instructor and the executive director of Literary Cleveland, Cleveland's creative writing center. As a leading figure in Cleveland's vibrant literary scene, Matt Weinkam will offer his observations about the city's cultural landscape and the power of words to connect communities.

Between these headline events, we'll gather for a happy hour organized by the ESU Happy Hour Committee; choose to attend A Beautiful Noise, the award winning Neil Diamond musical; or take a stroll through Cleveland's vibrant downtown. From the bustling Public Square to the dazzling lights of Playhouse Square, you'll see why this city has captured our hearts. 

A couple of weeks ago I asked our Branch leaders to consider underwriting the travel costs of one or two delegates to the conference. I also suggested that they invite Branch members to apply for this support, as it may inspire fresh voices to step forward and contribute to our national dialogue. I hope they have heeded my appeal and are making arrangements to ensure strong representation from their Branches. And I encourage you to reach out to your Branch leadership about this opportunity. We need your ideas and your perspectives to engage in a productive dialogue about the ESU's future growth.

Furthermore, as hosts of the ESU of the Commonwealth's International Council Meeting, we will be showcasing the strength, vitality, and warmth of our organization. Strong representation will help us put our best foot forward, demonstrating the vibrant community we've built together.

I invite all ESU members to attend the 2024 Annual General Conference. And to those of you who aren't yet ESU members, I extend a warm invitation to join our organization. Becoming a member not only supports our mission but also offers the opportunity to participate in extraordinary events like this conference. Don't miss out on the chance to be part of this incredible gathering and the many other enriching experiences ESU membership provides.

2023 AGM in Kansas City

Dear friends, this conference is more than just a meeting – it's a celebration of our shared mission and a chance to forge stronger bonds within our global ESU family. I hope you will seize this opportunity to be part of what promises to be an unforgettable weekend in Cleveland.

Looking forward to seeing many of you in Cleveland,

Warm regards,

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Chairman's July Newsletter

National News

A Message from Chairman Dr. Quinn Peeper

Dear ESU Friends,

As we approach the end of July, I hope that all of you are having a wonderful summer. This year, we are moving towards a fully electronic membership renewal and enrollment process, which will commence on September 1st. This start date has been carefully selected to provide our Branches with ample time to adjust to these new procedures. I'd like to take this opportunity to remind all our members to renew their ESU membership and extend a warm invitation to those who have not yet joined our community.

On another note, I'm pleased to report on the June 20 celebration marking the ESU Andrew Romay New Immigrant Center's 10th anniversary and the graduation of the Class of 2024. Under the theme "A House of Immigrants" this milestone event was a testament to the center's enduring impact on the lives of countless newcomers to America. The celebration was filled with heartfelt testimonials, inspiring stories of success, and a sense of community that truly embodies the ESU's spirit.

The program also recognized the many who have been part of the center's success. The ESU Denver Branch was honored with the Leadership in Volunteerism Award for its participation in the English in Action Across America online tutoring program. The Community Partnership and Collaboration Award was presented to Flushing Bank for its support of the annual Career Days and the new professional mentoring program. And finally, two ARNIC alumni, Héctor Arguinzones and Niurka Meléndez-Vasquez received the Alumni Community Impact Award for creating the non-profit community-based Venezuelans and Immigrants Aid (VIA) organization. 

The event also inspired the generosity of many whose gifts will contribute to the program's sustainability. I extend our heartfelt thanks to all the donors for their invaluable support. 

I'm pleased to share with you some pictures from the event that capture the joyous moments of this celebration. I encourage you to visit the gallery here and relive the memories of this special occasion.

As we look ahead, I am thrilled to invite you to the 2024 ESU Annual General Conference "Hands Across the Seas: Leadership for Global Action," which will take place in Cleveland, Ohio, from October 18 to 20, 2024. This year's conference promises to be especially memorable as it will be held in conjunction with the ESU of the Commonwealth's International Council Meeting, bringing to Cleveland representatives of ESUs from around the world. This unique opportunity for international camaraderie and exchange will undoubtedly enrich our discussions and foster a deeper understanding of our shared mission. Please mark your calendars and register for the conference here. We look forward to welcoming you to Cleveland for what promises to be an unforgettable weekend.

Dear friends, another great year is in store for us, filled with enriching programs and meaningful connections. I wish you a wonderful summer and promise to be back in touch in September.

Warm regards,

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Chairman's June Newsletter

National News

A Message from Chairman Dr. Quinn Peeper

Dear ESU Friends,

We are approaching the start of a new program year on July 1 and I would like to invite you to renew your membership in the English-Speaking Union (ESU) and if you are not yet a member to join us in our community of Anglophiles who appreciate the power of the English language to build bridges and open up opportunities. I also encourage you to consider upgrading to National Patron status, joining the ranks of our most generous and loyal supporters.

I am also excited to announce a new membership renewal process that will be entirely electronic. Instead of a mailed membership renewal package in early July, you will receive a series of emails reminding you to renew or join. This year the renewal process will be starting on September 1 to give Branches time to adjust to the changes in membership. Additionally, membership will now be on a rolling one-year basis from the date you signed up.

This new renewal process will offer several key benefits:

• You can join or renew at any time of the year, rather than being restricted to a specific renewal period. This allows you to become a member whenever it's most convenient for you.
• You will enjoy uninterrupted access to all ESU programs without worrying about a lapse in membership. This will ensure that you can consistently take advantage of events, resources, and opportunities.
• You will receive timely and relevant renewal reminders tailored to your individual renewal date. This will make it easier to remember to renew and will reduce the risk of accidentally letting your membership lapse.
• And new members can join immediately and start benefiting from the membership right away, without having to wait for the beginning of a program year.

And now that I have touched upon on the how of the renewal process, let me move on to why you should renew or join.

As those of you who have been part of the organization already know, the ESU is a thriving fellowship where members enjoy enriching experiences and form lasting connections. The social events organized by our Branches are always lively and engaging occasions to meet like-minded individuals and share in our collective passion for the English language and culture.

ESU Greenwich Branch Garden Party

The popular ESU Happy Hour Program, already in its eighth season, allows members to enjoy informative and entertaining presentations from the comfort of their homes, while the ESU Evelyn Wrench lectures bring insightful and thought-provoking discussions by renowned international speakers right to our doorstep.

Evelyn Wrench Speaker Andrew Lownie at the ESU Headquarters

One of the highlights of the ESU calendar is the Annual General Conference, which this year will be hosted by the ESU Cleveland Branch, October 18-20, 2024. This conference will be especially notable as it coincides with the ESU of the Commonwealth's International Council Meeting, bringing to Cleveland representatives of ESUs from around the world. We promise that the conference program will be especially memorable, featuring substantive discussions about the ESU future, along with exciting social and cultural events that showcase Cleveland's rich cultural heritage.

But beyond these wonderful activities, the true reward of being part of the ESU is witnessing the profound impact of our programs on the lives of thousands of middle and high school students, teachers, English language learners, and new immigrants. The success and gratitude of the beneficiaries of our programs are a testament to the difference we make together.

And now I turn to all of you who have experienced first-hand the ESU's remarkable programs and initiatives – our TLab, Luard Morse and Secondary School Exchange scholars, the families of our National Shakespeare Competition participants, the ESU volunteers, our ARNIC and English in Action alumni and everyone else who has been touched by the ESU. 

Join our Union! 

You know better than anyone the value of our work. Become a member and help ensure that these programs continue to thrive and benefit future generations.

The ESU needs all of you – new and returning members. But it needs you even more as National Patrons. 

Becoming an ESU National Patron holds immense value: it signifies a special commitment to our mission. It provides vital support not only to the national programs. Since half of your Patron's dues goes back to the Branches, you will strengthen your Branch's programs too - from sponsoring a TLab scholar to sending a student to New York for the National Shakespeare Competition, to supporting local charities, to hosting in-person local events.

The elevated National Patron status also comes with exclusive privileges.

As a Patron you will enjoy special recognition at the traditional invitation-only National Patron reception during the ESU Annual General Conference. Prominent listing of your name in the ESU annual report and on the website will show your special place of honor within our organization. And you are invited to join the exclusive ESU National Patron Tours that present unique experiences of cultural enrichment and unforgettable adventures made possible by the ESU's network of connections built over a century. 

This fall, the National Patron Tour "Shakespeare and Palladio in the Veneto" promises an unparalleled journey to this marvelous region of Italy. Guided by our Italian host, art historian Count Stefano Aluffi-Pentini, the group will have behind-closed-doors access to private villas and hidden treasures scattered across the picturesque Veneto landscapes.

Dear friends, join us in this new program year. The ESU is a vibrant forum for cultural and enrichment, fostering connections and making a lasting impact through the power of the English language. I promise you an exciting year filled with new experiences, new friendships and the profound sense of reward that comes from making a difference in the lives of others. Together, let's make this coming year our best yet.

With your generous support let's continue to transform lives.

With best regards,

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Chairman's May Newsletter

National News

A Message from Chairman Dr. Quinn Peeper

Dear ESU Friends,

I am thrilled to announce that in June we will celebrate the 10th anniversary since the ESU Andrew Romay New Immigrant Center (ARNIC) became an integral part of the English-Speaking Union. Over the past decade, ARNIC has been a beacon of hope and opportunity for new immigrants, providing invaluable resources, education, and the support they need to integrate fully into U.S. economic and civic life.

For those of you unfamiliar with ARNIC, it is a free program that offers new immigrants English language classes, one-to-one conversation sessions with native English speakers and opportunities for civic and cultural learning.

ARNIC Students at the ESU Headquarters

One of the Center's newest initiatives is the Workforce Development Program launched two years ago with a major grant from the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation. It advances the economic integration of new immigrants by helping them to develop professional English proficiency and navigate the U.S. job market.

Job readiness English classes equip our students with the vocabulary and fluency needed to thrive in the workplace. A trained career advisor helps them to explore career paths, reviews their job applications and connects them to external resources. The cornerstone of the initiative is the professional mentoring program that matches immigrant job seekers with U.S. professionals who guide them toward reaching their career goals.

With pride, we can say that during the past ten years, more than 2,500 immigrants have passed through the Center's doors, benefiting from our programs and services. The Center's programs have been really effective. One hundred percent of the 395 students at the Center this past year reported improved English, 87% had acquired professional-level English skills and 93% felt more at home in the U.S. There was also a 23% decrease in unemployment among our students.

To commemorate the Center's 10th anniversary, we have launched a special fundraising campaign and invite you to join us in supporting ARNIC's continued mission. Your donation will have an even greater impact as ARNIC's long-term supporter, the Marietta and Andrew Romay Foundation, has generously offered a $25,000 challenge grant, matching all gifts made to the Center. 

Your contribution to the 10th-anniversary fundraising campaign will be instrumental in expanding our services to more immigrants and empowering them to build successful lives in their new country. By investing in our mission, you will be helping these newcomers to America to achieve economic stability, embrace their new home and contribute positively to our society.

To make your contribution and have it doubled, please visit esuus.org/donate-arnics-10th-anniversary.

In addition to this celebration, I am pleased to report on the successful completion of the ESU 2024 National Shakespeare Competition. On April 15, 2024, the Competition returned to its cherished long-time home, the iconic Mitzi Newhouse Theater at Lincoln Center in New York City.

Forty-four semi-finalists came from all over the country, along with parents, ESU Branch coordinators, and supporters for a weekend of educational and cultural activities in New York City, including an acting workshop with Broadway veteran Erin Dilly, a double-decker bus tour of New York City and a performance of Kimberly Akimbo on Broadway. Perhaps best of all for these teenagers was the opportunity to spend a weekend in New York City with fellow young Shakespeare lovers from across the country. 

The Forty-four National Shakespeare Competition Semi-finalists

With his performances of Sonnet 17 and a moving monologue from Othello, Malachi White of the ESU New Orleans Branch won the English-Speaking Union's 41st Annual National Shakespeare Competition. Willow Peyton of West Virginia took second place while Evelyn Hall of the ESU San Francisco Branch placed third.

From Left to Right: Evelyn Hall, Malachi White, Willow Peyton

I encourage you to read the press release announcing the Competition winners and to peruse the event program to learn more about the talented participants and their remarkable performances.

Dear friends, let us celebrate the tremendous impact of the ESU educational programs. Let us give a round of applause to Malachi White, Willow Payton, Evelyn Hall and all the other contestants of the 2024 National Shakespeare Competition and wish them success in their future endeavors. Let us look ahead with optimism and excitement to the future of the ESU Andrew Romay New Immigrant Center which will build on the solid foundation established during its first ten years. 

With your generous support let's continue to transform lives.

With best regards,

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Chairman's April Newsletter

National News

A Message from Chairman Dr. Quinn Peeper

Dear ESU Friends,

I am delighted to share with you the tremendous success of the recent ESU Luard Morse Scholarship reunion and celebration, which took place on March 22, 2024, at the British Embassy in Washington D.C. This event was a pivotal moment in our ongoing campaign to raise awareness of the Luard Morse Scholarships, energize our alumni network, and strengthen the bonds within the ESU community.

The evening was nothing short of spectacular, filled with warmth, camaraderie, and inspiring conversations among our guests.

Hosted by the British Ambassador Dame Karen Pierce DCMG and Sir Charles Roxburgh KCB in the historic Lutyens Building, the Ambassador's residence in Washington D.C., the event not only celebrated the achievements of our scholarship alumni studies in the UK but also highlighted the program's transformative impact on their life trajectories.

During her remarks, the Ambassador extended a warm welcome to all attendees, emphasizing the significance of the ESU Luard Morse Scholarships. She spoke passionately about the program's role in fostering international understanding and academic excellence, highlighting its impact on students from historically Black colleges and universities.

British Ambassador Dame Karen Pierce DCMG

Two distinguished ESU Luard alumni, Dr. Laurence C. Morse and Mr. Bruce Thompson, spoke about the scholarship's profound impact on their professional journeys. Their heartfelt stories of studying at the London School of Economics during their Junior year of college served as powerful reminders of the scholarship's enduring value and inspired renewed commitment to supporting and advancing its mission.

The event was part of our broader campaign to raise funds for the ESU Luard Morse Scholarships and the endowment that sustains them. I am thrilled to report that our efforts have been met with great enthusiasm and generosity. Thanks to the support of our members and friends, we are making significant strides toward the campaign's $65,000 goal.

For those who have not yet made a contribution, I invite you to join us in this important endeavor. Your gift, no matter the size, will make a significant impact and help us further our goals for the ESU Luard Morse Scholarships.

I invite everyone, whether you attended the event or not, to explore the photo gallery (use password: EntEsU23!). Those who were with us that evening will have the opportunity to revisit cherished memories, while those who missed the event will have a chance to share in the experience and appreciate the special moments captured.

Let us continue to build upon this momentum to ensure the ESU Luard Morse Scholarships' future.

Thank you once again for your dedication and support.

With best regards,

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February Happy Hour: An Ancient and Global History of the Book

National News

Wednesday, February 7, 2024 at 4 PM (ET) 

An Ancient and Global History of the Book with Professor James Raven

Sponsored by the ESU Central PA Branch

As James Raven writes, "perhaps we think we know what a book is—it has a cover and a spine and it's usually printed. It might be illustrated and it's usually read, although sometimes not all the way through. But over many thousands of years, books have come in many different material forms and have served many different purposes. What, in fact, is a book? In this richly illustrated talk, Professor Raven takes us from the earliest inscribed shells, stones, and clay tablets through to knotted strings, buffalo hides, illuminated manuscripts, printed codices, and the modern digital age. This global journey invites comparisons between materials such as papyrus, silk, bamboo, and plant leaves, and explores different ways of creating texts by writing, painting, imprinting, and digitizing. In review of all this, he asks what will happen to the book in the future and challenges us to think about wider sensory aspects of the reading experience. This ESU Happy Hour is sponsored by the ESU Central PA Branch. ESU Happy Hour programs are online, free, and open to all members and the public. Registration is required. Please register here.

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The ESU National Shakespeare Competition is Underway!

National News

We are pleased to announce the kick-off of the ESU's 2024 National Shakespeare Competition (NSC)! Now in our 41st year, the NSC has already engaged hundreds of high schools in 44 ESU branches across the country in 2024!  Branch competitions are beginning soon, with winners advancing to our final competition held LIVE on stage at Lincoln Center!  Once again, students, family members, teachers and branch representatives will be invited to join us in New York City for a weekend of exciting events culminating the in the Final Competition.

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January Happy Hour: Potatoes are not Irish with Dr. Robin Sinclair

National News

Wednesday, January 17, 2024 at 6 PM (ET) 

Potatoes are not Irish, Tomatoes are not Italian, Tea is not English or Why We Play Bagpipes at 9/11 Memorials with Dr. Robin Sinclair

Potatoes are not Irish, tomatoes are not Italian, tea is not English, or why we play bagpipes at 9/11 Memorials. Between the 15th and 17th centuries, European sailors traversed the globe in search of riches, glory, and new trade routes to East Asia. Historians refer to this period as the Age of Exploration, or the Age of Discovery. During this time, European explorers made daring voyages that changed world history. These discoveries caused ideas, technology, plants, and animals to be exchanged around the world. This ESU Happy Hour is sponsored by the Nashville Branch. ESU Happy Hour programs are online, free, and open to all members and the public. Registration is required. Please click here to register:

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Chairman's December Newsletter

National News

A Message from Chairman Dr. Quinn Peeper

Dear Friends,

As we gather with loved ones to celebrate the joyous holiday season, I extend my warmest wishes. Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year!

Reflecting on the past twelve months, our ESU community reached remarkable milestones that truly defined our commitment to bringing people together, forging friendships and unlocking opportunities through the power of the English language.

This past year was punctuated by four national 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.

ESU Gala, Photo by Joy Malone 

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. Her Royal Highness' visit was among the proudest moment in the ESU's history.

2023 National Shakespeare Competition Semifinalists

The ESU National Shakespeare Competition made a triumphant return for its 40th edition to Lincoln Center in New York City – an inspiring step forward after the challenges posed by the pandemic. Your resilience and dedication made this event not just another competition, but a celebration of the enduring power of Shakespeare's words and the profound impact of this venerable ESU program on generations of students.

In July we also embarked on a successful National Patron Tour – a long-standing tradition of engaging our most generous members through cultural enrichment and unforgettable adventures. The transatlantic crossing aboard Queen Mary II, and tour in and around London allowed us to immerse ourselves in the cultural tapestry that binds us together. Such experiences enrich our understanding and strengthen the global connections fostered by the ESU.

Members of the ESU Board on board the Queen Mary II

In October, the Annual General Conference in Kansas City, MO, was another resounding success, bringing together members from around the country for a weekend of substantive discussions, social and cultural activities, and warm camaraderie. This event exemplified the strength of our community and the meaningful connections forged during these gatherings.

Tour of the WWI Museum at the Annual General Conference

I want to thank you for your invaluable contributions to these remarkable milestones. It is through your collective dedication and unwavering support that the ESU continues to thrive.

Looking ahead, I am thrilled to announce more exciting endeavors. 

On June 20, we will mark ten years since the Andrew Romay New Immigrant Center became an integral part of the English-Speaking Union. Over the past decade, ARNIC has become the centerpiece of our immigrant programs. It is a beacon of hope and opportunity for new immigrants, offering resources and support to rebuild their lives in the U.S. 

ARNIC students at the 2023 potluck

The theme of this special evening will be "A House of Immigrants: Celebrating Ten Years of Impact and Immigrant Success" – a tribute to the program's founder and benefactor Dr. Andrew Romay's dream to create a welcoming home for newcomers to America. To honor his vision, we will host this year's event at the ESU House, highlighting its warm and supportive environment. The event will include the graduation of the new cohort of ARNIC students as they embark on the next chapter of their journeys.

The evening's program will also recognize the many of you who have been part of the Center's success. Awards will be presented including the ARNIC Alumni Award for exceptional dedication, resilience and contribution to both their community and their chosen field; a Volunteer Award honoring those among you who have selflessly given their time and expertise; and a Partnership Award acknowledging the collaborative efforts that have enriched the ARNIC community.

This celebration will allow us to showcase the program's profound impact not only on the lives of its beneficiaries but also on the dedicated volunteers who have contributed to its success. A formal announcement will be going out soon and I welcome all of you to join us in commemorating a decade of transformative support, resilience and the shared journey of building successful lives in the U.S

2023 ARNIC Thanksgiving

In the spring, we eagerly anticipate a joyous reunion and celebration of the ESU Luard Morse Scholarships community, an event that promises to be a testament to the lasting impact of education and cultural exchange. This celebration will also mark the capstone of a fundraising campaign aimed at bolstering the Scholarships endowment. Your support will be pivotal in bringing us closer to this goal, and I am confident that together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of aspiring scholars.

In April 2024, the National Shakespeare Competition will once again take center stage, bringing forth a new wave of talent and passion to Lincoln Center in New York City. After a brief hiatus, five ESU branches are rejoining the competition. And in even more exciting news, I am delighted to announce that for the first time ever, we are planting the flag of the competition in three new states, allowing students in these regions to embrace the beauty of Shakespeare's words. This expansion embodies our commitment to making the transformative experience of the ESU National Shakespeare Competition accessible to even more young minds across the nation.

The ESU 2024 National Patron tour "Palladio and Shakespeare in the Veneto" will take us on a journey through time and literature as we explore some iconic places that served as the backdrop for Shakespeare's most important plays. Our Italian host, art historian Count Stefano Aluffi-Pentini, founder and CEO of A Private View of Italy, will offer us an unparalleled experience.

Thanks to Count Aluffi-Pentini's long-time friendships with the families that own some of the residences designed by Andrea Palladio, our group will have unparalleled access to private villas and hidden treasures scattered across the picturesque Veneto landscapes. Participants in "Palladio and Shakespeare in the Veneto" will have the extraordinary opportunity to meet a couple of these owners who, as stewards of a remarkable heritage, will graciously share their insights, stories, and family legacies, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the journey. I hope some of you will join us on this extraordinary voyage. For more information about the tour and how to sign up please contact Rossana Ivanova at rivanova@esuus.org, (862) 224-4244.

As I extend warm holiday wishes to you and your loved ones, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude and appreciation to all of you who make up our ESU community.

To the members of the ESU National Board, your unwavering support and guidance have been the bedrock of our success. Your commitment to our mission is truly inspiring, and I am grateful for your wisdom and dedication.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to our ESU Branch leaders, volunteers and members who generously give of themselves to make our programs and initiatives flourish. Your passion and tireless efforts are the driving force behind the impact we create, and it is an honor to stand alongside such a dedicated community.

Lastly, big thanks to the ESU staff – your tireless work behind the scenes, your dedication and commitment to excellence are the gears that keep the ESU engine running smoothly. I am grateful for the professionalism and enthusiasm you bring to your roles.

Dear friends, as we stand on the threshold of December, a month steeped in tradition and a spirit of giving, I am reminded of the profound significance of the holidays. It is a time when time-honored traditions come to life, and we find joy in showing appreciation and support for what's important to us. In the spirit of these festive traditions, I invite you to make a gift to ensure the continued impact of the English-Speaking Union.

Just as we come together to celebrate the holidays, let us also unite in support of the values and mission that bind us as a community. Your generosity, whether through financial contributions or active participation, plays a crucial role in fostering global understanding, goodwill and opportunity through the power of the English language. Your continued support will ensure that our organization continues to thrive, making a positive difference in the lives of individuals and communities.

Wishing you a season filled with the joy of shared moments and the satisfaction that comes from supporting what truly matters.

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!

With best regards,

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December Happy Hour: The Dark Secret Behind Charles Dickens' Christmas Tales with Andrew Halls

National News

Wednesday, December 13, 2023 at 5 PM (ET) 

The Dark Secret Behind Charles Dickens' Christmas Tales with Andrew Halls

When Charles Dickens died, a child famously asked if this meant Father Christmas would die, too. Such was the power of Dickens' grip on the popular imagination, the Christmas season almost seemed his own creation. Dickens inspired millions with visions of a glowing, holly-strewn celebration, rich in sentiment and good cheer, underpinned by recurrent themes of memory, loss and redemption.  These Christmas tales held secrets, dark secrets, personal to their author, too. In this talk, Andrew Halls explores Dickens' Christmas Books and Christmas Stories, showing that some of the most beloved tales of 19th century England and America contain unsettling insights into the mind, motives, and desires of one of the most popular, most known - and yet most hidden - novelists in history. This ESU Happy Hour is sponsored by the Cleveland Branch. 

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