Head of the class

Hilton sets stage for Hobart tribute

March 28, 2005

See also: MR. NYSUT: A Tribute to Tom Hobart

In 1972, New Yorkers were singing along with Don McLean about the day the music died in American Pie and laughing at a cantankerous Archie Bunker's antics in All in the Family. The first video game, "Pong" and the classic movie The Godfather had yet to be released.

When New York State United Teachers was created out of the merger of two rivals in 1972, Nelson Rockefeller was governor and Richard Nixon was president. After a year of sharing presidential duties with the legendary Al Shanker, Tom Hobart, a little-known industrial arts teacher from Buffalo was elected sole president at the union's 1973 convention.

A lot has changed since then, but not Hobart's smile, (see his graduation picture at right,) or his passion for advocating for members.

Clockwise from top center - Tom and Antonia Cortese share a light moment at the 2004 RA * Tom braves winter travel in the early years * Eunice Shriver receives the union's top award from Tom * Tom really is taller than Tony Bifaro and Jim Wood * Tom with Vice President Walter Mondale and Al Shanker.

Set aside the night of Friday, April 8, to join in a once-in-a-lifetime celebration noting the retirement of NYSUT President Thomas Y. Hobart Jr. after four decades of union activism and 33 years as president of the statewide union.

The tribute-filled evening will begin at 8 p.m. and run until midnight in the Grand Ballroom at the Hilton. Cocktails and refreshments will be offered throughout the night in auxiliary areas, as the ballroom will be reserved for dancing and presentations. Also, seating will be limited due to the expected high attendance. A brief program will include AFT President Edward McElroy and Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton. Former President Bill Clinton has been invited. His attendance will be based on his recovery from recent surgery. Due to security issues EVERYONE must have an RA convention badge and a ticket for admittance. RSVPs were requested. If you missed the March 21 deadline fax it in right now to (518) 213-6461. You may bring pre-registered guests for $75 each. Tickets may be purchased in advance. Guests must be registered as a visitor to the RA before purchasing a ticket.

As the party is expected to sell out, on-site tickets will be limited. So don't delay!