ESU 2026 Founder’s Award Gala and National Patron Tour “Ovid and Shakespeare’s Metamorphoses”
July 12 – July 16 EDT
Dear Friends,
Thank you again for being part of the truly special week in New York City this past April — a week that brought together the Annual General Conference, the National Shakespeare Competition, and, as its highlight, the Celebrate Legacy – Inspire the Future reception marking the 25th anniversary of the ESU House and honoring the leadership donors to the first-ever ESU Capacity Building Campaign. We appreciated the support, enthusiasm and generosity you brought to the evening. Your presence made the event truly memorable, and we are deeply grateful for your continued commitment to the ESU.
I am delighted to reiterate the wonderful news I announced that evening: in just one year, the ESU Capacity Building Campaign has raised over $900,000, more than 90% of our $1 million goal, thanks to you, our most generous leadership donors. With one year remaining in the Campaign, we will soon open this effort to the broader ESU community. I have every confidence that they will follow your example and help us exceed our goal.
We are profoundly grateful for the generous contributions of so many of you in attendance. Among our leadership supporters is Mr. Donald Best, who will be the honoree of the 2026 Founder’s Award Gala in London on July 14 at the Oxford–Cambridge Club.
Mr. Donald Best is a distinguished Board member, devoted steward of our mission, passionate internationalist and one of the ESU’s most generous donors. His commitment to the ESU of the United States has extended far beyond our national borders: for many years he has championed ESUs around the world and enthusiastically promoted the global fellowship at the heart of our mission.
His recognition will be a highlight of an extraordinary week of activities surrounding the Gala.
Under the theme of Metamorphoses and guided by Dr. Catherine Loomis, our program in and around London will feature a series of specially arranged visits to palaces and cultural institutions, offering behind-the-scenes access and opportunities to meet members of historic families, distinguished scholars and individuals whose work and insights illuminate the week’s theme. These exceptional experiences, together with intimate receptions and shared moments with the international ESU community, will culminate on Tuesday evening, July 14, with the Founder’s Award Gala at the Oxford and Cambridge Club honoring our dear friend Donald Best.
It promises to be a remarkable week of celebrations, and I very much hope some of you will join us. Space is limited to 16 participants, so I encourage you to reserve your place soon by following the link provided.
Thank you once again for your support, your friendship, and your belief in the ESU’s mission. I look forward to seeing you in London.
With warm regards,
Dr. Quinn Peeper
Chairman, The English-Speaking Union