Brendan McGovern, President, UUP Binghamton Chapter

Thank You for Your Support During My Family Leave
Last semester, I stepped away from my chapter duties for an extended family leave to care for two close relatives, one in home hospice and one recovering from major surgery. I want to express my deepest gratitude to all of you who stepped up during this time.

I especially want to thank Vice President for Academics Rosemary Collier, who served as Acting President with great care and steadiness, and our entire Executive Board for continuing the work of our chapter without missing a beat. Special thanks as well to our Labor Relations Specialist Chris Sielaff for providing his usual expert guidance and support to our officers and members while I was away.
It is good to be back. I am grateful to rejoin you all in the fight for our members.

Read more..

Brendan McGovern – Binghamton Chapter President

Over the past few weeks, we’ve watched something deeply troubling unfold right here at Binghamton University. At least five of our international student’s have had their visas revoked – some without warning, others mid-semester, with no clear explanation. These students weren’t accused of wrongdoing. Their only “offense” appears to be their status as international students in a political climate growing increasingly hostile to immigrants, public education, and the freedom to think critically.

Make no mistake – this isn’t isolated. It’s part of a broader pattern. A growing number of students across SUNY and the country are facing similar actions. And while five students may not sound like many, the chilling effect on campus is real. International students are afraid. They are asking questions their advisors can’t answer. Faculty are wondering what to say – and more importantly, what not to say – lest they draw the wrong kind of attention.

Read the rest of Brendan’s statement here.

Read the joint statement from UUP, PSC/CUNY, and NYSUT calling on SUNY and CUNY chancellors to defend our students, protect our campuses, and resist every attempt to dismantle the freedoms that make higher education a public good.