Walter Dunn, NYSUT's 'gentle giant,' is lauded

April 12, 2005

His legacy continues to affect every single NYSUT member. For this legacy, delegates, members and staff voiced their appreciation for former NYSUT Vice President Walter Dunn.

Credited as the architect of so many successful Member Benefits programs, the house that Dunn built continues to provide services to hundreds of thousands of members.

A video tribute titled "Gentle Giant" recounted Dunn's accomplishments as a union activist. He served as president of the East islip Teachers Association and as NYSUT second vice president, retiring last year.

In the video, outgoing President Tom Hobart said that Dunn was not just an advocate for the members, "he is also a political leader par excellence." Hobart quipped, "He was a French teacher, so he'd know what that means."

As the audience rose to pound out a standing ovation, Dunn smiled. As the video had referred to his modest nature, it was no surprise when he waved off the applause, and pointed to his watch. His subtext: "Thanks, but let's get back to our union work."