By Kyle Chambers, USA Communications Committee
One by one, the zoom screen populated with faces, both new and returning, culminating in the newly re-formed University Staff Association (USA) Stewards Council.
After a brief introduction by USA President Mary Malinowski and Vice President Sheila Gilmour, each member of the new iteration of the Stewards Council introduced themselves. The levels of experience ran across the spectrum, but enthusiasm was high as the stewards gave their reasoning for wanting to get involved.
“I want to be part of this structure that builds up our members through a helpful network,” said Antonia Lynch, a new steward and member of USA’s Contract Negotiation Team.
“I really think that we’re here to support each other, and to make sure that the rights [of USA members] are being respected. Having the backup of other people to support you makes every hard thing easier,” said new steward Andrea Lydick.
Returning steward Catherine Russell added, “I really just want to help out and give back to my union.”
A union steward is often the first point of contact for union members. In many cases, it can feel intimidating talking about workplace issues. However, because stewards have often seen or experienced similar situations, their valuable insight fosters a more comfortable atmosphere to voice concerns.
The role of a USA steward is multi-faceted: stewards are expected to represent the union and carry the knowledge of workplace grievance policies, have a working knowledge of the University Staff Association’s Collective Bargaining Agreement, and an understanding of Weingarten rights – the rights that ensure that union members have adequate representation in matters that may result in discipline.
“A steward is someone who will take the information we have and bring it to other people,” said Chief Steward Dora Ramos. “It’s empowered me in many ways, and that’s what I want to do for everyone else.”
Stewards are elected to serve a two-year term, and several of USA’s current board members started their union service as stewards. Some council members said they see the Stewards Council as the future leadership of the union.
With the rise of hybrid and remote schedules across the University, this iteration of the USA Stewards Council faces unique and unprecedented challenges when it comes to outreach and communication. “A lot has changed,” Ramos added. “There are a lot of moving pieces, there are a lot of good fights going on all over campus and we need to make sure we are on top of our game. We need to see where all the changes are coming from, and how we’re going to move forward.”
The Chief Steward says the most crucial element to staying on top of these changes is training.
“One of the best things about being a steward is the training. Knowing how to respond to a member with a problem, knowing what to do when things happen, knowing how to interpret the contract, all of it. I’m excited to get the training back for the people with their boots on the ground.”
The next steps for the Stewards Council will include drawing up and assigning new districts to members and establishing a regular meeting time where stewards can coordinate their efforts across campus. You can expect to see more information from the Stewards Council on the USA website and in the USA newsletter.
If you would like more information on becoming a steward for your union, please contact the USA office at usa@umass.edu.