The English-Speaking Union
Colonial NC Branch

Celebrating 50 Years of ESU in New Bern and Eastern NC
1976-2026

The English-Speaking Union’s diverse educational programs are the hallmark of our mission. Our programs highlight the broad base audience we serve—students, educators, English-language learners, new immigrants, and members.

Unknown Tales Lurking in the New Bern Historic District

October 21 @ 11:30 am – October 22 @ 1:00 pm UTC+0
Paula’s Italian Restaurant
3946 MLK Jr. Blvd
New Bern, North Carolina

Learn some very interesting facts about our community from Lindsey Able at Bear Feet Street Tours! This is an ESU Members only luncheon with selections of baked ziti, lasagna or

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Poet Sheena Powell shares “The Tuskegee Airmen” from her book Polyhymnia

November 7 @ 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm UTC+0
La Casetta
2503 Neuse Blvd.
New Bern,

This Veteran’s Day themed luncheon features a reading by local poet Sheena Powell from her newly published book of poetry, Polyhymnia. She will also discuss her relationship with members of

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Holiday Dinner and Choral Celebration

December 15 @ 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm UTC+0

Join ESU and the New Bern High School Advanced Choir in this holiday celebration. Venue details will be posted in October. This event is for members only.

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In the News

Recent news and events from the Colonial NC English Speaking Union branch.

St. Eustatius and the First Salute
Congratulations Bob Husson! Thespian and ESU Leader
The Colonial NC Branch of ESU is partnering with Wreaths Across America to honor our nation’s veterans by offering you the opportunity to sponsor a wreath. Our local branch will benefit in a small donation from Wreaths Across America.
Read More About National Events Next National Happy Hour Event (Online): Becoming American: Philadelphia’s Story, Wed., Sept. 23 @ 4:00 – 5:00 p.m,
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ESU National Educational Programs

What We Do: Scholarships

Scholarship Programs

The English Speaking Union offers a variety of scholarship programs for students, educators, and lifelong learners.

English in Action Across America

English in Action 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.

Debate & Public Speaking

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

International Public Speaking Competition

The International Public Speaking Competition brings together outstandingly articulate young people from all over the world for a week of public speaking competition and international cultural exchange with the ESU of the Commonwealth in London. The finalist contestants meet and learn with their peers of different backgrounds and cultures from some 50 countries. Through all its qualifying levels, the program engages more than 40,000 young people globally.

TLab—Travel and Learn Abroad

Study in the United Kingdom for an unforgettable immersive experience! Live and learn on the famed campuses of Oxford and Edinburgh or discover Shakespeare in the context that brought his works to life — exploring his hometown in Stratford or performing on the stage of the Globe Theatre in London.

Shakespeare Writing Competition

This program is designed for students who express their love of Shakespeare through creative and analytical writing. It will consist of competitive and non-competitive writing events for high school students.
Get in touch with the Colonial NC Branch
Email: colonialnc@esuus.org
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Donate to support the Colonial NC branch

The ESU Colonial NC Branch is always grateful for your kind donations of any amount. The English-Speaking Union of the United States Colonial NC Branch LLC is a 501(c)(3) organization. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. All information is kept confidential.

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