On Saturday, members broke into workshops to learn more about the union, the 2007-2011 contract with the state, and other issues. Among the workshops conducted by UUP/ NYSUT labor relations specialists:

• Chapter Development—This workshop focused on internal organizing, communication with UUP leadership, and the best ways to provide prompt responses to member needs.

“I am interested in keeping the chapter moving forward,” said UUP delegate Michael Behun of SUNY Buffalo. “I see the value of the union as a resource for the members, to either fix a problem or assist them in a multitude of ways.”

• Forums for Problem Solving—The sesison offered a roadmap of options to remedy problems that come up on the job. Members learned about grievances, improper practice charges and labor/management meetings, as well as other procedures and techniques to resolve problems.

“The session on problem solving gave me a good overview to the union mechanisms,” said Oswego delegate William Schleinitz, a first-time workshop attendee. “I believe all new delegates should learn everything they can about the union.”

• Grievance—This workshop provided an introduction to UUP’s contractual grievance procedures, as well as the right of members to be fairly represented by the union.

Angela Melton of Brooklyn HSC said she found the two-day event extremely helpful as a new activist. “I learned a lot that I can now bring back to my members,” she said.

• Workplace Violence Awareness and Prevention—Members received the tools they need to develop chapter-based workplace violence prevention programs. Participants learned how to identify workplace violence and bullying, as well as risk assessment techniques.

“The definition of what constitutes workplace violence is broadening, which is nice to see,” said Ramona Santa Maria of Buffalo State, a first-time workshop participant.

“I have a lot more to learn about what campuses are doing about workplace violence, especially bullying.”

— Karen L. Mattison