UUP’s VOTE/COPE collections are close to setting a record. As The Voice went to press, VOTE/COPE contributions were on pace to reach $225,000. That would surpass the 2008 total of $208,000, reflecting a more than 6 percent increase.

“Our members are well aware of the serious challenges we face protecting SUNY and its mission in a time of economic hardship,” said UUP statewide VOTE/COPE Coordinator Thomas Tucker of SUNY Buffalo. “Many are responding.” UUP is urging more of its members to contribute in this hour of need.

VOTE/COPE, NYSUT’s nonpartisan political action fund, uses voluntary contributions from members in all of its locals to assist the campaigns of candidates endorsed by UUP through NYSUT, its statewide affiliate. NYSUT is currently reviewing its long- and short-term endorsements of incumbents.

“We’re pleased that contributions have increased, and that trend must continue in order to overcome the political obstacles that lie ahead,” Tucker said.

To contribute to VOTE/COPE, contact the UUP chapter office on campus and request a contribution card.

— Donald Feldstein