English Australia and English USA, the representative bodies for the English language teaching sectors in each country, have both appointed new executive leaders.
Brett Blacker, current president of the International Education Association of Australia, has been named the new CEO of English Australia, while Cheryl Delk-Le Good will become executive director of EnglishUSA after serving as director of Georgia State University’s Intensive English Program.
“I have been inspired by the mission and work of English USA since my early involvement in language programme administration”
Both will begin their new roles in mid-August.
Delk-Le Good, who has worked on the Commission on English Language Accreditation and the International Enrollment Management Knowledge Community for NAFSA, has also served on the boards of EnglishUSA and University and College Intensive English Programs.
“I have been inspired by the mission and work of English USA since my early involvement in language programme administration,” she told The PIE News.
Cheryl Delk-Le Good, incoming executive director of English USA.
“I am committed to creating increased value for our diverse membership by tapping into the strengths of different sectors of IEPs to collaborate with members in supporting and advancing the interests of the organisation.”
The association’s current president, Caroline O’Neal, described Delk-Le Good as “the ideal person to help drive our vision to be the recognised voice of intensive English programs in the USA”.
“We are fortunate to welcome such an accomplished industry expert to lead our association,” she commented.
Blacker, meanwhile, will replace former English Australia CEO Sue Blundell, who will step down after 12 years in the role.
His experience in the international education sector includes serving on the board of Perth Education City and as part of the executive group of Australian Universities International Directors Forum.
He has also led the International, Residential Services, Alumni, Careers and Employment Office at Murdoch University and the International Office at the University of Newcastle.
Brett Blacker, current incoming CEO of English Australia.
Speaking with The PIE News, Blacker underlined his commitment to ensuring the association has a “strong sector voice”, particularly during the drafting of the National Strategy for International Education and the Australia International Education 2025 market development plan.
“Successful positioning of the quality of Australia’s English language training sector is critical to Australia’s long term competitiveness, a view which I aim to keep at the forefront of policy makers’ minds,” he commented.
