2025 Annual Conference

Pre-Conference Workshop

Wednesday, October 22, 2025 | 1:00 - 4:00 pm ET

Tickets $100

Beyond Basics: Planning, Prompting, and Learning Design with Generative AI 

From Foundations to Application: Building AI Fluency Across Curriculum, Instruction, and Operations

Artificial Intelligence continues to reshape the landscape of education. Within English Language Programs, AI offers new opportunities to support curriculum design, instructional delivery, assessment development, and operational efficiency. While some programs are already experimenting with AI, many are seeking structured, pedagogically sound approaches that maintain quality, relevance, and alignment with institutional goals.

This three-hour interactive session is designed for professionals working across all roles in English Language Programs. The session blends direct instruction, collaborative exploration, and practical experimentation. As a participant you will examine how AI functions, engage in structured activities using current tools, and apply insights directly to your own instructional or administrative contexts.

The session focuses on three core areas:

• Improving established work – Enhancing and aligning existing materials and workflows

• Developing new resources and systems – Using AI to support innovation and efficiency

• Strategic instructional design – Leveraging AI to align outputs to institutional outcomes and international frameworks

In this working session, you will work with your own materials and leave with AI-generated outputs, practical strategies, and a clear sense of how to apply AI effectively and responsibly in your program setting.

Speaker: Sara Davila is an internationally recognized consultant specializing in English language education, curriculum innovation, and educational technology. A former classroom teacher, Sara has supported national language policy reforms, built teacher training systems, and designed comprehensive assessment frameworks for clients ranging from ministries of education to global publishers. As the founder of Educating Her World, Sara brings a systems-level perspective to solving urgent challenges in language learning—focusing on upskilling educators, advancing 21st-century pedagogies, and improving learning outcomes. Her contributions have earned her two ELTons nominations and ongoing invitations to speak at various global education forums. She’s based in Chicago, working worldwide. Learn more at educatingherworld.com

Hilton Alexandria Old Town

1767 King Street
Alexandria, Virginia 22314

EnglishUSA has room blocks with rates starting at $224 per night. 

Book your room here now!

For restaurants nearby, please view this document. Parking information will be available soon.

Call for Proposals Now Closed!

Due June 13th, 2025

This year’s theme: Connecting Communities

Sub-themes include: 

• Student success & well-being
• Collaborative partnerships
• Adapting to global challenges
• Innovation in teaching & learning
• Visibility, marketing & engagement

Examples of topics: 

• Empowering students through community connections
• Fostering a community of well-being for students
• Forming public-private partnerships for community engagement
• Strengthening partnerships for growth and student success
• Connecting through alumni networks
• Marketing for the next generation of ELPs and their students
• Enhancing program visibility on campus and/or within the community
• Creating global communities through local connections
• Leveraging technology to connect and engage students

Session Formats

There are two types of sessions for which proposals may be submitted:

1. Panel Discussions: 
   Panels are 60 minutes long with a minimum of 15 minutes of interactive discussion and Q & A with session attendees. This session type is similar to sessions at other international education conferences with slide decks used (and provided to participants after). These sessions should focus on lessons learned, challenges and issues encountered, and how those were addressed. Presenters are requested to keep details or case studies from specific universities or programs to a minimum; these can illustrate points but should NOT be the focus of sessions.
2. Facilitated Roundtables: 
   Roundtables are 60 minutes long, focused on specific topics, and presented/organized by a maximum of 2 facilitators. The idea of the roundtables is to delve into the deeper issues of particular topics and focus on developing solutions, approaches, strategies, or innovative thinking. They demand interaction from participants. Facilitators briefly introduce the topic and provide background information, then pose questions to facilitate the discussion. The outcome of each roundtable session is a collegial discussion and an exchange of ideas providing a range of perspectives and take-aways for participants. Facilitators are requested to submit the discussion outcomes in writing to EnglishUSA for posting on the conference website within two weeks of the conference.  These discussions should pose a series of discussion questions; target audience is specifically ELP administrators and educators and sessions should focus on an issue at the strategic leadership level.

Selection Criteria

Proposals submitted for the EnglishUSA Conference will be reviewed by the Conference Planning Task Force and evaluated with the following criteria in mind:

1. Relevance to Leaders in English Language Programs: Proposals should address topics pertinent to senior leaders, faculty, and staff involved in English language programs (ELPs).
2. Alignment with Conference Theme and Sub-Themes: Sessions should clearly connect to the conference’s overarching theme and sub-themes, showcasing insights valuable to the EnglishUSA community.
3. Originality and Quality: We value innovative session ideas that contribute new perspectives or approaches in the field of English language teaching & learning.
4. Inclusivity of Perspectives: Proposals should feature multiple viewpoints, ideally involving a variety of stakeholders or practitioners in English language education.
5. Diversity of Presenters: We encourage a mix of regional and institutional backgrounds among presenters to represent the breadth of the ELP community.
6. Effective Time Management: Sessions should be structured to allow ample time for discussion, with a clear and realistic allocation of time for each part of the presentation.
7. Focus on Substantive Issues: Proposals should address meaningful challenges, trends, and lessons learned, with adequate time for participant engagement. Product or service promotion is strictly prohibited.
8. Presenter Expertise and Background: We seek presenters who have expertise in areas relevant to ELPs.  
9. Format Alignment: Session descriptions should correspond to the selected format (e.g.,, roundtable, or panel discussion), optimizing attendee engagement.

Additional Considerations

• Diverse Presenter Teams: Standard panel sessions are encouraged to include presenters from diverse programs, institutions, associations, and/or organizations. Roundtable sessions may have up to two facilitators.
• No Product/Program Promotion: Sessions must focus on insights and best practices, not the promotion of specific programs, services, or products. Sponsorship opportunities are available separately for service providers.
• Balanced Program: The Conference Planning Task Force will consider the overall program balance, seeking to cover a variety of topics and perspectives that reflect the interests of the EnglishUSA membership and the industry as a whole.
• Potential for Collaboration: Proposers may be invited to combine their sessions with others who submitted similar topics to maximize the depth and breadth of discussion.

Proposals should focus on addressing key challenges and trends in English language programs, emphasizing collaborative dialogue and shared learning over presentation.

KEY DATES

• Mid-March 2025: Call for proposals opens
• June 13, 2025, 11:59 PM EST: Deadline for submitting proposals
• July 2025: Presenters notified

Frequently Asked Questions

I am an invited presenter, am I required to register for the conference? 
All presenters are required to register for at least one day of the conference. We recommend that presenters register early to take advantage of early registration discounts.

When will I hear about whether my proposal is accepted or not?
You will hear by the end of July, if not sooner, regarding the status of your proposal.

Can I request a specific date or time for my session?
No, due to the complexities in conference scheduling, EnglishUSA is unfortunately unable to accommodate specific requests for session scheduling. Please make sure you and your co-presenters/facilitators are available during this time frame. If selected, session chairs will be notified of the session date and time in July/August.

Will there be virtual sessions or will sessions be live-streamed? 
No, there will be no virtual sessions and all session presenters are required to participate in-person.  

How are the proposals reviewed?
Members of the conference planning task force will review proposals. There are at least three reviewers for each proposal.

How many sessions can I participate in as a presenter?
Presenters may be included in a maximum of two separate conference sessions at the EnglishUSA Annual Conference, whether as presenter or as chair.

Do presenters receive a discount in conference registration fees?
No, there is no discount in conference registration fees for presenters.* We recommend that presenters register early to take advantage of early registration discounts. All presenters are required to register for at least one day of the conference (please make sure your co-presenters are aware of this policy.) 
*NOTE: Invited government and selected association presenters receive complimentary registrations. 

 
If I am using PowerPoint, am I required to bring my own computer?
You are welcome to bring your own computer but we will have back-up computers as well. Mac users should bring appropriate adapter cables/dongles.

If I have handouts, am I required to bring copies to the conference?
We can provide electronic links for participants to access presentations, handouts and other materials.  We encourage presenters to provide QR codes in sessions for easy access to digital handouts to reduce the number of printed materials.  

Refund/Cancellation Policy:
Registration fees are non-refundable. You may transfer your registration to a colleague in your program through October 10, 2025 (11:59 p.m.) ; Requests must be received in writing to info@englishusa.org.

Photography Policy:
Registration and attendance at, or participation in, EnglishUSA meetings and other activities constitute an agreement by the registrant to EnglishUSA's use and distribution (now and in the future) of the registrant's or attendee’s image or voice in photographs, videotapes, electronic reproductions and audiotapes of such events and activities. 

Health and Safety Guidelines:
EnglishUSA’s priority is the health and safety of our event participants. Together with the Hilton Alexandria-King Street, VA, EnglishUSA’s goal is to hold an event, recognizing it is not possible to remove all risks, in particular concerning COVID-19.

EnglishUSA will put measures in place (set according to CDC and public health recommendations, federal, state, and local regulations applicable at the time of the event) to provide a safe environment for its event attendees. EnglishUSA may change, update, or add to these requirements at any time as it deems prudent to best protect the health and safety of attendees and others. Attendees must comply with relevant policies and requirements as communicated b EnglishUSA and the Hilton Alexandria-King Street, VA. 

By registering for and attending the in-person EnglishUSA Annual Conference (October 23-24, 2025), you acknowledge that EnglishUSA cannot guarantee you will not be exposed to or contract a Communicable Disease at the event. You knowingly and freely assume all such risks, both known and unknown, and assume full personal responsibility for your participation in the event.

Wednesday Schedule        Thursday Schedule         Friday Schedule

Wednesday, October 22nd

Pre-Conference Workshop: Beyond Basics: Planning, Prompting, and Learning Design with Generative AI 

Wednesday, October 22, 2025 | 1:00 - 4:00 pm ET

More information here

Are you attending the workshop or arriving Wednesday afternoon/early evening? Do you live in the DMV area?  Come to Theismann's Restaurant (1800A Diagonal Rd.) near the hotel/King St. Metro for a casual, no-host meet-up.  Board members will arrive about 6:00pm in the bar area.

Thursday, October  23rd

Registration, Breakfast, & Networking (8:00 - 8:45 am)

Welcome & Opening Remarks (8:45 - 9:30 am)

Join us for opening remarks as we kick off our conference with recorded welcome remarks from Fanta Aw and opening remarks by Jill Welch.

• • Fanta Aw, NAFSA
  • Cheryl Delk-Le Good, EnglishUSA
    
  • Caroline Gear, International Language Institute of Massachusetts
    
  • Jill Welch, U.S. for Success Coalition & Out of Many 1 Advocacy

Session #1: Advocacy Connections & Updates with TESOL, NAFSA, Alliance, EnglishUSA, and the U.S. For Success Coalition (9:30 - 10:30 am)

• • Jeff Hutcheson, TESOL International Association 
  • Rachel Banks, NAFSA Association of International Educators
  • Mark Overmann, Alliance for International Exchange
  • Jill Welch, Presidents' Alliance on Higher Ed & Immigration
  • Daryl Bish, EnglishUSA, University of Florida English Language Institute

Coffee Break (10:30 - 10:45 am)

Concurrent Session #2a: Piloted An AI-Powered Speaking Practice Method for Working Adult Learners (10:45 - 11:45 am)

This session shares a method developed not from a teacher’s perspective, but from firsthand experience as an English learner using AI. It offers practical, tested strategies for working adults to practice speaking more effectively. Participants will explore learner-centered AI tools, prompts, and ways to support consistent, engaging language practice.

• • Emily Liu, English Language Institute, University of Delaware

Concurrent Session #2b: Who is in Your Community? A Blended Staff Model  (10:45 - 11:45 am)

Often in small offices, IEP staff have to wear many hats. Through a blended model, interactively explore how people across the program and/or institution - your community! -  can be leveraged for better distribution of those hats. Ideally this practice leads to increased efficiency through cross-training and improved staff well-being.

• • Ashley Micklos, Wisconsin ESL Institute (WESLI)
    
    

Lunch & Networking - Table Topics (11:45- 12:45 pm)

Session #3: The Importance and Benefits Of “Service to the Field” (12:45 - 1:45 pm)

Professional organizations are crucial to the success of ELPs today, and the success of these organizations is dependent upon individuals engaging in service to the field. This panel will discuss the opportunities for service at all levels and will highlight the benefits of this service to both individuals and programs.

• • Megan Forbes, English Language Institute, University of Florida
  • Bill Wallace, English Language Institute (ELI) at The University of Alabama (retired)
  • Mark Algren, Applied English Center, University of Kansas

Session #4: Whisper, Don’t Shout: Recruiting International Students in Uncertain Times (2:00 - 3:00 pm)

We’ll explore the challenge of marketing to international students amid political uncertainty. How can language programs communicate their offer without drawing unwanted attention? Authenticity is key; student-centered strategies, inclusive messaging, and peer advocacy approaches connect communities and build trust. Leave with practical ideas and resources you can implement immediately.

• • Maureen Manning, Global Nexus Collective, in partnership with Hubbub Labs
  • Laura Moreno, Hubbub Labs
    
    

Coffee Break (3:00 - 3:15 pm)

Concurrent Session #5a: Building Innovative English Language Programs: Professional Development for University Staff and Community Members, and For-Credit Dual Enrollment for High School Students (3:15 - 4:15 pm)

Participants will learn how English courses for university credit taught to local high school ELs can be offered through an ELP, and how Washburn University IEP adds value by offering a certificate for the same courses to benefit current students and adults in the community. Attendees will see how these two offerings were interconnected and designed to serve diverse student groups. The session will also highlight the University of Georgia IEP’s ESL for Professional Development program for university building services workers. Presenters will discuss program development, challenges faced, communication needs of departments, workers’ English proficiency goals, and participant progress over the past two years.

• • Kelly McClendon, Intensive English Program, Washburn University
  • Sebastian Burkholdt, University of Georgia Intensive English Program
  • Laura Reyes, University of Georgia Intensive English Program

Concurrent Session #5b: How English Language Programs Facilitate Soft Diplomacy (3:15 - 4:15 pm)

English language programs offer students academic and cultural foundations to practice soft diplomacy as cultural ambassadors during and after completion of their programs of study.   The session explores three core skills that facilitate soft diplomacy — mindset, vulnerability, and learning zone—training to become global citizens during and after their studies.

• • Cheryl Ernst, English Language Institute, University of Delaware
    
    

Break (4:15 - 5:30 pm)

Session #6: Supporting English Language Programs through Quality Assurance  (4:30 - 5:30 pm)

• • Linsay Ogden, ACCET
  • Heidi Vellenga, Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA)

Networking Reception (5:30 - 7:00 pm)

Located at Hilton King Street, 1767 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314

Friday, October 24th

Registration, Breakfast, & Networking (7:30 - 8:30 am)

Opening Remarks (8:15 - 8:30 am)

Join us for opening remarks on day two of conference.

Session #7: From Data to Decisions: Insights from IIE & Bonard (8:30 - 9:30 am)

• • Kristina Benedikova, Bonard
  • Julie Baer, IIE

Coffee Break (9:30 - 9:45 am)

Concurrent Session #8a: Perspectives On Generative AI Exploration in an English Language Program (9:45 - 10:45 am)

Panelists describe an action research study undertaken in an ELP exploring diverse work-related uses of generative AI. Preliminary results based on qualitative data from researcher-participants involved in the project are discussed. The panel invites audience members to ask questions and share insights. 

• • David Lind, International Programs, Syracuse University
  • Olga Oganesyan, International Programs, Syracuse University
  • David Patent, International Programs, Syracuse University

Concurrent Session #8b: Professional Development in Post-secondary English Language Programs (9:45 - 10:45 am)

As education professionals, faculty and administrators in English language programs have a responsibility to undertake appropriate and regular professional development (PD). For accredited programs and institutions, this responsibility is made explicit through the standards. Requirements and recent data on types of program director PD will be presented and discussed.

• • Emily Vandermade, Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA)
  • Rebecca Yoon, Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA)
  • Melissa Van De Wege, Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA)

Coffee Break (10:45 - 11:00 am)

Session #9: Connecting to Government Resources Promoting Study in the USA: EducationUSA and U.S. Commercial Service  (11:00 - 12:00 pm)

• • TBD
  • TBD

Lunch & Networking - Table Topics (12:00 - 1:00 pm)

Session #10: Sustaining Growth: Partnership Models for English Language Programs (1:00 - 2:00 pm)

Building on our 2024 EnglishUSA presentation (Partnerships 101), this session will provide an in-depth follow-up on institutional partnerships within the current political and educational landscape. Each presenter will share updates from their respective programs, highlighting emerging challenges and opportunities in forming and sustaining partnerships.

• • Maria Arruda, Center for English Language & Orientation Programs, Boston University
  • Jacqueline McCafferty, Center for American Language & Culture, Temple University 
  • Caroline Gear, International Language Institute of Massachusetts
    
  • Gokhan Alkanat, Rowan University

Concurrent Session #11a: Volunteering as a Path to Student Empowerment (2:15 - 3:00 pm)

Participants will learn how volunteering can be a tool to empower students and help them build their social and professional networks to enhance both language development and cultural integration. Participants will share ideas and brainstorm ways to design volunteering opportunities to help their students adventure beyond the classroom.

• • Vladimir Betancur, Intensive English Center, Tennessee State University

Concurrent Session #11b: Study Travel & ICEF: Recruitment Resources (2:15 - 3:00 pm)

• • Brittany Goodman, ICEF
  • Matthew Knott, Study Travel Magazine

    
    Break (3:00 - 3:15 pm)
    
    

Session #12: United for Impact: Your Associations in Action (3:15 pm - 4:15 pm)

• Jennifer Wright, AIRC
• Joann Ng Hartmann, NAFSA Association of International Educators 
• Elsie Paredes, UCIEP & Virginia Tech Language and Culture Institute
• Cheryl Delk-Le Good, EnglishUSA

Wrap Up (4:15 - 4:30 pm)