Higher ed member is grateful for help after toxic NYU lab exposure

April 7, 2005

When Michelle DePaola stopped by the local presidents' luncheon, she was there by way of saying "thanks."

DePaola, a member of the Union of Clerical, Administrative and Technical Staff at New York University, is still struggling with health problems caused by a toxic over-exposure to formaldehyde at her job at New York University's Dental Center Anatomy Lab.

Her local, in concert with New York State United Teachers, went to bat over what were outrageous lapses in NYU lab safety. NYSUT also helped DePaola through its Social Services department.

A Brooklyn resident and SRPer, DePaola came to the convention to meet officers and thank union staffers who have been helping her. NYSUT Vice President Dick Iannuzzi led local presidents in applauding her courageous struggle with health problems caused by fumes on the job.