On January 6, 2020, I notified the Executive Board that effective February 3, 2020, I will step down as APA president and chairperson to provide greater time for my personal and family life.
Since May 2008, I have had the honor and pleasure of serving as our local union president. There are no words that can fully express my gratitude and thanks for the opportunity. Over my 11+ years as president, the APA has grown by more than 1,000 members and expanded our representation to campuses and worksites across Michigan.Â
Together we have successfully preserved fully funded health care, annual eligible wage increases, a vibrant retirement match, and the first-ever MSU paid parental leave program for support staff that will begin next January 1, 2021.Â
We developed and launched a membership engagement program that has fostered activism and involvement within our union like never before. And, despite an onslaught of political and legislative attacks on organized labor and the middle class, we have maintained a strong membership. Again, I could not be more proud of the local union we have built together.
In the coming weeks I will be working closely with the APA leadership, members, and the University administration to ensure a smooth transition. Per Article IV, Section 5, of the APA Constitution, APA vice president, Martin McDonough, will assume the position of APA president when I relinquish the role on February 3, 2020.Â
In addition to having served as our vice president for the last two years, Martin brings a wealth of experience and dedication in the APA including service as an area rep, local grievance chair, APA delegate to the MEA and NEA representative assemblies, as well as extensive work within the broader labor movement. I’m excited to see all the ways Martin helps grow and strengthen the APA.
Again, from the bottom of my heart, thank you for all the encouragement and support over the years.
In solidarity,
Maury