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,

Dr. E. Quinn Peeper

Chairman

National Board of Directors

The English-Speaking Union of the United States