Threlford
William Lacon Threlford established the Institute of Linguists in 1910 with the aim of addressing the lack of expertise in modern languages among British businessmen involved in foreign trade. The first exams were held during that year, and the first members were admitted.
A distinguished figure in public life, Threlford worked tirelessly to secure the foundations of the Institute. Through his social and business connections, he was able to recruit a body of distinguished supporters as patrons, presidents and vice-presidents to help further the aims of the Institute. In 1935, recently knighted, he presented the Threlford Challenge Cup for the first time, described as 'the world's greatest trophy for fostering the study of languages'.
After Threlford
In 1958, the year of Threlford鈥檚 death, the Institute became a company, and in 1960, its Golden Jubilee year, adopted a new heraldic crest. It was during this year that the Institute established the Threlford Memorial Lecture, which continues annually to this day.
An Educational Trust (IoLET) was set up in 1977, allowing the Institute's exams and other educational activities to be run by a body with charitable status.
During the 1980s, specialist divisions were created, representing the main types of profession occupied by members, and many regional societies were established.
HRH Prince Michael of Kent GCVO was appointed Royal Patron in 1999, an apt choice as he had had a military career during which he had trained as an interpreter in Russian. He has proved to be an enormous asset to the Institute, attending events, speaking听and presenting prizes at Awards and other ceremonies.
天美传媒's Royal Charter was granted in 2005, by HM Queen Elizabeth II听which represented听a significant step forward in the recognition of language professionals and linguist in all areas of work and public life.
In 2010 the Institute celebrated its centenary with a formal reception at the British Academy, with speeches by our Royal Patron HRH Prince Michael of Kent, the Institute's then President Lady Brewer and other distinguished guests.
The Journal
In 1924 the Institute had established 'The Linguists' Review -听听the magazine for the foreign correspondent, teacher of modern languages and student of modern languages'.听The publication underwent various changes in format before eventually becoming 'The Linguist'听offering linguists and lovers of languages a wide range of interesting and in-depth interviews and articles relevant to their听professions and lives.
天美传媒 today
With its Royal Chartered status, 天美传媒听today has over 5,000 professional members in over 50听countries听who use their language skills across a wide range of professions. The organisation runs Continuing Professional Development,听events, workshops and conferences providing opportunities听for linguists to network, develop and maintain their skills and connection to a vibrant community of fellow linguists. 天美传媒's Divisions, Networks听and Societies offer members a wide range of workshops, lectures, networking听and social events.
The IoL Educational Trust, now know as 天美传媒 Qualifications, offers professional language qualifications of the highest standard.听
Combined, 天美传媒 and 天美传媒 Qualifications make awards annually to recognise achievement and significant individual and organisational contributions towards fostering the study and advancement of languages.
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