Being part of a union committee is one of the most impactful ways to shape the direction and strength of our union. Committees are where key decisions are discussed, strategies are developed, and the voices of members are turned into action. Whether it’s organizing events, negotiating contracts, or addressing workplace issues, committees keep the union running and responsive.
From Once-in-a-While to All-In:
Committee commitment level is varied. Below are some examples.
COMMITTEE ON POLITICAL EDUCATION (COPE)
COPE is chaired by Amber LaFontaine, VP for Political Affairs. Members of this committee are passionate, engaged, and invested in the future of the labor movement, UCPEA, and the
state of Connecticut as it relates to state politics and their effects on our members.
COPE educates members about issues and legislation affecting the Association, labor organizations, or the University. COPE makes recommendations to the Executive
Board for any political endorsements and contributions.
COPE meets for one hour per month, and on an as-needed basis.
HIRING PRACTICES COMMITTEE
The Hiring Practices Committee, chaired by the First Vice President, serves as a voice and advocate for you, ensuring that decisions are made with fairness, consistency, and
clarity when it comes to hiring practices and promotions in the workplace. We are here to help make sure everyone has a chance to grow and succeed.
We keep a close eye on the University’s policies and practices to support fair and transparent hiring, promotion,and professional growth across our organization.
The Hiring Practices Committee meets once a month during your lunch hour.
SICK BANK COMMITTEE
Chaired by the First VP and composed of members who support those who have run out of earned/paid time during approved medical leaves, the Sick Bank Committee reviews requests from HR/LR and determines the number of days to donate. There is also an HR/LR representative who brings cases to the committee and processes paperwork.
Requests come in sporadically and response needs to be within 10 days. Members will need to be flexible in scheduling meetings quickly. Meetings are usually during lunch and occur ad hoc.
COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE
The Communications Committee, chaired by the VP for Communications, keeps members informed and engaged.
Anyone in the union with an interest in writing, design, or outreach is welcome to join — no experience required. The committee works on a range of projects, including writing and proofreading content for the Union Wire, creating social media graphics, and finding new ways to share union news. Members choose the projects they’re interested in and
help shape our overall communications strategy.
Commitment is generally minimal and always volunteer- based — meeting monthly on the first Tuesday at noon, and contributing a few hours a month on assignments, as needed.
MEMBERSHIP SERVICES COMMITTEE
The Membership Services Committee (MSC) is chaired by Nick Boston, VP for Membership Services. Members of the MSC are energized, passionate, and friendly advocates for the benefits of all UCPEA members.
The MSC develops and coordinates membership activities, plans various benefits and activities, and facilitates several annual membership events (Fall Fest, Winter Celebration, Union Unwind, New Member Receptions, etc.).
The MSC meets for one hour monthly, and members volunteer to work membership events throughout the year as their availability allows.
SOCIAL JUSTICE COMMITTEE
The UCPEA Social Justice Committee works on initiatives connected to issues of social justice on campus and in our broader communities. We engage in advocacy and programming around issues of racism, discriminatory behavior, and the impact of international conflicts. The committee has also built two very successful community events to celebrate Pride Month and Juneteenth.
Meetings are once a month.