Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/1500904
Pringle brought down the house with a powerful speech Sunday morning, saying that she knows CTA members will never shrink away from protecting public education and standing with courage. "When we are up against powerful forces with you, the mighty CTA, leading the way and joining with 3 million mem- bers across this nation, our hearts will be filled, our soul will be replenished and our strength will be renewed," Pringle said, bringing the entire room to its feet. "Our resolve will never be broken!" HONORS, OBSERVANCES AND RECOGNITIONS State Council took time this weekend to recognize some of CTA's outstanding members. Dr. Chris Cruz-Boone, a mem- ber of Kern Community College District Community College Association, was honored as the 2023 Higher Educator of the Year. Members also recognized the statewide winners of the WHO (We Honor Ours) award, as well as State Council rep- resentatives who are stepping down after years of service. Educators were moved to tears during two powerful video presentations by the Pacific Asian American Caucus and the Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Issues Advisory Committee (SOGIIAC). A similarly emotional video tribute to Boyd featured messages from Gov. Gavin Newsom, Super- intendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond and musician Gregory Porter. The following members were elected to leadership posi- tions: • Shelly Gupton, member of Elk Grove Education Asso- ciation, was re-elected to the CTA Board of Directors, representing District E. • Mel House, member of UTLA, was elected to the CTA Board of Directors, representing District J. • Grant Schuster, member of Anaheim Secondary Teachers Association, was elected as the CTA/NEA Coordinating Director. • Frank Mata, member of Corona Norco Teachers Associ- ation, was elected as NEA Alternate Director, Seat 1. • Connie Verhulst, member of Fontana Teachers Association, was elected to the CTA/ABC Committee, representing District K. • Loretta Arenas, member of Corona Norco Teachers Association, was elected to the CTA/ABC Committee, representing District M. THANKS FOR EVERYTHING In his parting message to State Council, Boyd expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve as CTA president. " Thank you all for allowing me to spend the past four years in this brave space with you," said Boyd, who is returning to teach kindergarten after leaving office. " Thank you for work- ing side by side. Thank you for entrusting me. Thank you for the work I know you will carry on well into the future. You're a fantastic body of educators and activists; the future of public education is in good hands." State Council of Education will meet next Oct. 20-22. With his family standing on the dais behind him, David B. Goldberg is sworn in as CTA's next president. NEA President Becky Pringle Dr. Chris Cruz-Boone was honored as the 2023 Higher Educator of the Year. "I look forward to continuing to engage with you, to lead with you and in power with you." —Incoming CTA President David B. Goldberg 44 cta.org CTA & You