The YWCA Princeton names new assistant director of the English as a second language program

The YWCA Princeton (www.ywcaprinceton.org), a non-profit organization that works successfully and effectively to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all, has named Princeton resident Caroline P. Tompkins assistant director of the English as a Second Language (ESL) Program.

“We are grateful that this dedicated community volunteer and experienced teacher has agreed to join our staff on behalf of our adult learners who represent widely divergent language abilities and backgrounds,” said Director of the ESL Program Paula Rossi, M.Ed.

Ms. Tompkins, an adjunct professor of French at Mercer County Community College, earned a bachelor’s degree in French at Hollins College in Roanoke, Va., and a master’s degree in education from Rider University. As a member of the Peace Corps, she taught English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) at Dingxi Teachers College in Gansu Province, China, and both French and Spanish on the secondary school level for more than ten years in New Jersey.

A member of Leadership Trenton Alumni Association, Ms. Tompkins also served on the boards of Children’s Futures, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Mercer and the National Society of Colonial Dames of America in the State of New Jersey. In addition, she has been a volunteer, specializing in public relations, marketing and fundraising, for Princeton Community Works, UIH Family Partners and American Field Service (AFS), as well as past chair of the June Fete annual fundraiser for the University Medical Center at Princeton. Ms. Tompkins received a Certificate in Nonprofit Management from Mercer County Community College.

The ESL Program is a comprehensive Adult English as a Second Language Program offering more than 40 ESL classes to men and women. Each year, there are more than 400 students from more than 40 countries who speak nearly 27 different languages. As a cross-cultural center, the YWCA Princeton serves as a safe meeting place for students to interact with one another. Its atmosphere fosters friendships and promotes self-confidence, encouraging students to take an active role in the community as citizens, parents and workers. It introduces the students to varied cultures with emphasis on local culture through multiple events throughout the year. For more information regarding the YWCA Princeton, please contact www.ywcaprinceton.org