- Home >
- Intensive English Center
- > About Us
About the Intensive English Center (IEC) at TSU
Welcome to the TSU Intensive English Center (IEC)
The TSU Intensive English Center provides high-quality English language instruction for international students, scholars, and local residents seeking to improve their academic and professional skills. Located on Avon Williams Off-Campus Instructional Site (Tennessee State University) in downtown Nashville, we are dedicated to fostering global connections and preparing students for success in American university life and beyond in Music City, USA.
Our Mission, Vision, and Values
Our Mission
To provide English language instruction through an academically rigorous program to its learners in a student-centered and supportive environment so that they achieve their personal, professional, and academic goals.
Our Vision
By 2030, the Intensive English Center (IEC) at Tennessee State University will be recognized locally and internationally as a leading English language training center, known for its outstanding programs and highly professional staff. The Center will have established partnerships with countries and institutions worldwide. It will maintain all required certifications to ensure the highest level of student satisfaction and the continued development of their English language skills and knowledge.
Core Values
At the IEC, our core values guide everything we do. We are committed to fostering a community rooted in:
- Respect for Diversity and Inclusion
- Fairness
- Pursuit of Excellence
- Integrity
- Learning
We believe in creating a space where continuous learning thrives and every individual feels valued, supported, and empowered to grow.
Meet the IEC Leadership and Faculty
A. Leadership and Administration
|
|
Vladimir Betancur, M.Ed. | Director Vladimir Betancur serves as the Director of the IEC. He holds an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership from TSU, where he is also pursuing a doctorate. He is responsible for curriculum development, event planning, and student excursions, and is committed to supporting international students. E-mail: vbedoya@tnstate.edu |
|
|
Brandi Myers | Assistant Director / DSO Brandi Myers serves as the Assistant Director and DSO. She holds master's degrees in TESOL and Curriculum and Instructional Design. She has extensive experience teaching English in the US and abroad and specializes in TOEFL preparation, academic English, and pronunciation. E-mail: bmyers6@tnstate.edu |
|
|
Burcak Kaynar | Curriculum Coordinator / Instructor Burcak Kaynar serves as the Curriculum Coordinator and Instructor. She holds an M.Ed. from Vanderbilt University and focuses on promoting cultural literacy and inclusive pedagogy through culturally responsive practices and differentiated instruction. E-mail: bkaynar@tnstate.edu |
|
|
Teresa Raquel Bertaina | Senior Office Assistant Teresa Raquel Bertaina serves as the Senior Office Assistant. A native of the Dominican Republic, she has a background in business management and education. She is dedicated to providing a supportive and efficient environment for international students, faculty, and staff. Email: tbertain@tnstate.edu |
B. Instructors and Support Staff
|
|
Beyza Aypay | Instructor Beyza Aypay is a part-time Instructor and ESL specialist. She holds an MA in Multilingual Education and has taught diverse students in Turkey and Kazakhstan. Her experience includes academic writing, IELTS preparation, and adult ESL. E-mail: baypay@tnstate.edu |
|
|
Anfernee Welch | Instructor Anfernee Welch is an Instructor who is TESOL Certified and holds a B.A. in English and Intercultural Studies. He has several years of teaching experience across Asia, Europe, and the United States, including work with diverse student backgrounds. E-mail: awelch16@tnstate.edu |
|
|
Natalia Vanegas | Volunteer Natalia Vanegas serves as a Volunteer at the IEC. Originally from Colombia, she is a lawyer specializing in Procedural Law and a former law professor. As a former IEC student, she is passionate about serving the center's students. E-mail: nvanegas@tnstate.edu |
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Explore Our Programs
Discover the full-time and part-time Intensive English Program options available to you. PROGRAMS
Apply Today
Begin your application to the TSU Intensive English Center. APPLY NOW