Dear TIRF Supporters & Trustees,

As we enter the Year of the Fire Horse, we are reminded that this is a cycle defined not simply by movement, but by purposeful movement. The Horse symbolizes strength, endurance, independence, and forward drive; the Fire element adds intensity, visibility, and transformative energy. Together,  these images call us to rise with confidence, to act with conviction, and to pursue bold goals with disciplined execution.

For TIRF, this is more than a symbolic alignment — it is an invitation – an invitation to elevate our presence in the field, to strengthen our partnerships, to innovate in our financial stewardship, and to renew the leadership that guides our mission. The spirit of the Fire Horse challenges us to move beyond incremental progress and toward strategic acceleration. It asks us not only to sustain what we have built, but to expand it thoughtfully and courageously.

This year, we have the opportunity to consolidate our signature strengths — our DDG programs, our research initiatives, our global engagements — while sharpening our identity as a trusted, forward-thinking leadership organization in English language education research. We can amplify our visibility through intentional storytelling, clearer positioning of our services, and stronger dissemination of our impact. We can deepen partnerships by co-creating initiatives that bring measurable value to the field. We can diversify our financial pathways in ways that protect our independence while expanding our capacity to serve.

At the same time, the Fire Horse reminds us of the importance of balance. Energy without focus can scatter; ambition without planning can exhaust. Internally, the charge to our TIRF Trustees is to channel this momentum with foresight, discipline, and unity. When we combine strategic thinking with collective commitment, we convert energy into achievement. Together, we strengthen governance, accountability, and creativity.

Let 2026 be remembered as a year when TIRF expanded its visibility, deepened its alliances, strengthened its financial foundation, and reinvigorated its leadership with confidence. With your partnership, insight, and commitment, I am confident that we will harness the power of the Fire Horse to propel TIRF to new heights.

Together, we ride forward — with clarity of purpose, unity of vision, and the determination to make this a landmark year in TIRF’s journey.

Warm regards,

Jun Liu, PhD

TIRF President