Welcome to the Denver Branch of the ESU! We are a community of people who celebrate literature, language, arts, theatre, and global understanding. For over 100 years, the English-Speaking Union (ESU) has enriched the lives of students, teachers, English language learners and members worldwide. Our Denver Branch, founded in1930, is proud to be a part of Denver’s past while shaping Denver’s future. If you are looking for a place to belong, a place that values what you value, a place for constructive and positive action, you are here. ESU is for you.
Who is the ESU for?
If you love the arts, value education, and believe in the power of cultural exchange, you belong here. Our members enjoy theatre, literature, lectures, travel, and meaningful community connections.
Our outreach programs
We support teachers, students, and English language learners. Apply for a program or join to support one!
Teachers – Do you know a teacher or you are one? Apply for our popular Teachers Learning Abroad scholarship (TLAB). Every year we send two teachers from Colorado to study in the location of their choice: Oxford University, Edinburgh University, or the Globe Theatre. Meet with other ESU members from around the world and international scholars for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. These are summer programs that can change your life.
High School Students – Writers and performers wanted here!
Beckley Writing Competition: Every year we hold a writing competition in the fall with a celebration and awards ceremony in December. Guests are invited to listen, and the essays will renew your faith in the next generation.
Shakespeare Competition: Start local, and end up at Nationals in NYC! In February we host a competition where each contestant performs a monologue and a sonnet downtown on a stage at the DCPA educational building. We send the winner to Nationals in NYC to compete with students from around the country in front of celebrity judges.
English Language Learners – Volunteer to be a tutor! The English in Action program meets weekly online to support students learning English in the United States. This enriching small-group program connects ESU members across the country in a casual conversation structured to build language skills for newcomers to the U.S. Participants love the global community in this program.
The ESU is for you—whether you want to participate in programs, volunteer your talents, or simply enjoy rich cultural experiences with like-minded people.
As president of the Denver Branch, I’m delighted to welcome you. I look forward to meeting you at an upcoming event and exploring ways you can get involved.
Come be part of our next chapter!
Millicent Ambroggio
President, ESU Denver Branch
ESU Denver Branch Board of Directors 2024-2025.
Standing, left to right: Julia Patterson, Ace Eggleston, Tom Tafoya, Bruce Haefner, Millicent Ambroggio, Polly Cox; Seated, left to right: Meredith Fulford, Ingerid Kelley, Chuck Thompson, Cindy Poinsett.
