NIAGARA FALLS — Hundreds of CSEA officers and activists gathered for the 115th Annual Delegates Meeting for a week filled with learning, unity and reflection on past leaders who continue to shape future leaders.
This year’s theme, “Stepping Up, Standing Strong, Tomorrow’s Leaders,” emphasized the importance of training and developing the next generation of union officers.
CSEA President Mary E. Sullivan reinforced the value of education and leadership development as the foundation of our union’s success.
“We’re here to strengthen our union by investing in education, training, and leadership development, because the future of CSEA depends on all of us,” said CSEA President Mary E. Sullivan, while welcoming attendees. “When we step up together and stand strong together, there’s nothing we can’t accomplish.”
The ADM included workshops, discussions, and networking sessions focused on strengthening local leadership and preparing CSEA’s future leaders to continue building our union. With programs geared to both new and experienced officers, members built their skills on topics that included workplace safety, effective communication, member engagement and political advocacy.
At the end of each day’s workshops, members came together for the “Tomorrow’s Leaders, Today’s Takeaways” sessions, which allowed members to share what they learned in workshops and how they plan to bring it back to members. In addition to valuable feedback for members and presenters, attendees discussed best practices to enhance their roles as leaders.
The opening day featured a moving “Tribute to Leadership” program that honored the individuals who have shaped CSEA’s proud history, including former CSEA President Danny Donohue and former Metropolitan Region President George Boncoraglio, who both passed away earlier this year.
Guest speakers who were close to Danny shared stories about his extraordinary union leadership and the deep mark he left on the labor movement. Sullivan closed the program with an emotional tribute to Danny’s service to our union and the labor movement.
The spirit of leadership and solidarity that defined Danny and George’s service remained at the center of every discussion throughout the ADM. Attendees were reminded that their commitment to learning, mentoring, and supporting one another is what keeps our union strong.
In addition to training, the week also included the LGBTQ+ and Minority caucuses, at which members discussed challenges facing these communities. Our union also honored several outstanding members to close the week.
CSEA’s strength lies not only in its storied past, but in its investment in tomorrow’s leaders.
“The progress we made here in Niagara Falls will ripple outward,” said Sullivan. “It will shape the future of our union and the lives of the members we represent.”
— Bryan Miller
