NAPE/AFSCME is adding a familiar face to our field team. Téa Cushman started at NAPE/AFSCME as an organizing intern in January 2024 and has become a valuable member of our team, which is why we’re excited to welcome her aboard as our newest Field Representative.
Téa said she has enjoyed learning about how workers can come together to make changes in their workplace.
“When I started, we were just beginning our 3,000 Strong: United for Lunch campaign and I got to hear from employees around the state about what was important to them and help educate them on contract negotiations,” she said. “It was interesting to see how our members’ priorities developed and all of the important decisions that leaders made to create our negotiations priorities.”
During her time as an intern, Téa attended a number of grievance meetings where she got firsthand experience to be a successful Field Representative. She also participated in numerous organizing events, including visiting employees at their worksites and homes to talk with them about the benefits of union membership.
“I’m excited to continue educating employees about the power they have when they work alongside one another. I also feel ready to have a bigger role as an advocate for our members throughout the grievance process,” she said.
We’re excited to welcome Téa to our team as a full-time staff member. If you see her at a union meeting, be sure to congratulate her on her new position!
