UUP Stony Brook welcomes two new Chapter Officers, Zebulon Miletsky (Vice President for Academics) and Rita Nezami (Officer of Contingents).
Zebulon Miletsky – Vice President for Academics:
I am an Associate Professor in the Africana Studies department. I have really been getting more and more involved in UUP, and have been inspired by not only the work that the union does, but the potential possibilities for growth.
I care deeply about our union and the work we do: engaging in ongoing organizing efforts around our contract; speaking with members and non-members regarding workplace issues and concerns; liaising with University Governance; and convening the Academic Council.
Although it will by no means be an easy task, I am more than willing to give it my all. More than anything, it would mean a lot to me to be able to help my fellow colleagues, and get them more involved in the union—to know that they “are not alone.” Workers deserve a good quality of life—for themselves, their families—and the students we serve. I pledge to give of my “head, heart, and hands” to do just that.
Rita Nezami – Officer for Contingents:
Although I will be new to being involved in UUP, I am inspired by the work being done for our contingent members at Stony Brook. This new role offers me the potential for tremendous growth, both as an academic and as a humanist. I believe I will be an asset to the UUP with my 25-years of teaching experience in the United States and other nations. I consider myself a global citizen and am a compassionate and caring person; I care deeply about my students and my coworkers.
I will be the voice for contingent members and bring to the UUP their urgent concerns and needs. I am a senior lecturer in the Program in Writing and Rhetoric. I also teach in various other departments and programs: Department of African Studies, Asian and Asian American Department, the Honors and Scholars Colleges. I began teaching at Stony Brook University in 2008, and since the first day of my classes, I have introduced my students to global issues and global literacies. I hope to bring to the UUP my experience and expertise as a teacher and a humanist.