First-time delegates learn the ropes

April 8, 2005

PICTURED: Heather Williams, Gloria Garvey, Ellen Diamond-Jones and Pernell Jones, all new delegates from the UFT, talk about keeping the convention regulations straight.

The annual orientation for new delegates took on special significance this year. It's the first time in NYSUT's history that Tom Hobart's name won't be on the ballot for president.

Electing a full slate of officers - including Hobart's successor and choosing among three candidates for the position of second vice president - will be among the constitutional duties the delegates will perform.

NYSUT Special Projects Coordinator Bob Carillo carefully explained those duties to a standing-room-only collection of first-time delegates.

Carillo also explained another key delegate duty - working on the various committees that discuss the many resolutions that will come before the full slate of delegates.

PICTURED: A full crowd listens to the ins and outs of the convention at the session for first-timers.

RA delegates determine NYSUT's legislative priorities and the union's direction over the next 12 months.

They also get to make new friendships, like newcomers Elisabeth Hellwege of Florida TA and Grace Small of the United Federation of Teachers, meeting one another on the way into the session for new delegates.