Colleagues,
I am honored to step into the role of President of the United University Professions (UUP) Buffalo Center Chapter – one of the largest and strongest chapters in the state, with over 3,400 dedicated professional and faculty members. It is a responsibility I take seriously, and I look forward to working alongside each of you to protect our rights, strengthen our collective voice, and advocate for the future of the University at Buffalo and SUNY.
As we begin this journey together, I want to reaffirm my commitment to ensuring that every member is heard and valued. Our work is critical, not just within the University at Buffalo but in shaping the broader landscape of higher education. Through solidarity, thoughtful strategy, and unwavering dedication, we will stand firm in defending fair wages, equitable working conditions and the respect our members deserve as contract negotiations are on the horizon. Your insights and participation will be essential as we navigate this process. I encourage open discussions, collaboration, and active engagement in shaping the path forward.
Now more than ever, involvement as a strong, united union presence is necessary as we witness increasing attacks on higher education. We are facing funding cuts, grant cancellations, policy changes, and a genuine effort to undermine the work that we do on behalf of our students, our communities, and across the globe. We must unite to safeguard higher education. This work cannot be done by just a few individuals. We need active voices in committees, rallies, and advocacy efforts. Whether it’s joining bargaining sessions, attending events, speaking up for our rights, or submitting your contractual vote — your engagement will shape the outcomes we fight for. Your presence matters. Your voice makes a difference.
Finally, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to a few past Presidents that have set a strong foundation of strength we enjoy today. Tom Tucker, who was just honored by the Western New York Area Labor Federation for Lifetime Achievement Award for his labor efforts in the International Alliance of Theatrical State Employees (IATSE) and our UUP Chapter, has blazed a path for our chapter by establishing our current office location, as well as shown us the importance of forming coalitions with other labor unions and UUP Chapters. Ezra Zubrow, who continues to be a calm and strategic guiding hand in handling UB problem resolution. Finally, I want to thank my predecessor and mentor, Ken Kern, who has skillfully demonstrated times to show strength through numbers and at other times has known that the strength received from those numbers need to be appreciated, celebrated, and embraced. All three past Presidents I have served with have been, and I’m thrilled to say, will continue to support our Buffalo Center efforts into the future!
Please, I encourage you to get involved in any way you can. Membership is more than just paying dues – it’s about hearing your voice and having a presence. Reach out, share your concerns, and let’s stand together to protect what we’ve built. I look forward to working alongside each of you to secure a strong future for all of us.
In solidarity,
Kathleen “Kat” Kielar
President, Buffalo Center Chapter, United University Professions (UUP)
Email: uupkatkielar@pm.me
Phone: 716-276-3377
Office Location: UB Commons, Suite 108 (behind Starbucks)