Described as a “new and improved benefit for members”, EnglishUSA Engage will allow members to connect, learn and share from their online platform with immediate access to full discussions, library, event information, and announcements.

“The timing is perfect for the new online community to keep conversations going”

“During the past few challenging months for our members, EnglishUSA has offered up dozen virtual events to help connect members and share challenges, strategies and best practices regarding online delivery, staff morale, student support, and Town Halls reflecting on the future of the industry,” EnglishUSA said in a statement.

“The timing is perfect for the new online community to keep these conversations going and foster the inclusive, collaborative and supportive association that we have created and nurtured for nearly 35 years.”

Speaking to The PIE News, executive director of EnglishUSA, Cheryl Delk Le Good, said their online community has grown in the past six weeks, with more than 1,000 individuals from nearly 400 programs signed up to receive information and engage in events.

“Our most recent Town Hall had nearly 300 people attending,” she explained.

Delk Le Good added that the transition to working remotely has been aided by having strong community support.

“Faculty and staff attending our events report that the peer-to-peer virtual networking has been very helpful during the journey of teaching remotely— at the different stages of implementation and then maintaining student and staff morale, continuing to provide student services and support, and reflecting on the future of the industry.

“One member wrote me last week: ‘because of these meetings, I feel more connected to a professional community than I have been for years. Thank you for bringing us together—I hope we continue this virtual connection for the long term’,” she added.

EnglishUSA is the largest professional membership organisation of nearly 400 accredited post-secondary English language programs.