Tell us a little about yourself and what was your entry point into Adult ESOL.
My name is Tho Tran, I am the founder of the Vietnamese American Services, a nonprofit to help Vietnamese community in Maryland. When VAS was established in 2015, we received a first grant from MCAEL to teach English for Vietnamese. Since that time, VAS always has Adult ESOL programs for the community.
Where are you now teaching (or working as an ESOL provider) (at what levels and for which organizations)?
I am working as the Executive Director of VAS.
What unexpected successes or previously unknown capabilities have you and the learners you serve experienced during the pandemic
People adapted quickly with online learning. During the quarantined time, we had more students because people were staying at home, and we addressed the needs on time.
What role do you play in MAG?
I am a member of MAG’s Learner Leadership Strategic Planning Committee.
What do you find most rewarding about your work?
Working with good people, help people change their quality of life and achieve their dreams.
What brings you joy outside of your professional life?
I am learning Latin dances.
