Host Nan Whaley is joined by Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers and Secretary Treasurer of the Ohio AFL-CIO, for a discussion on her journey in labor leadership. Melissa shares insights into the Federation's growth and challenges, efforts to organize new sectors such as libraries and social services, and the complexities of labor advocacy in a politically tough state like Ohio. They also delve into the evolving role of women in leadership positions within unions, Melissa's personal motivation, and the importance of diverse perspectives in policy-making. The episode highlights Melissa's passion for policy work, commitment to organizing, and the balance she strikes in her demanding roles.
About Our Guest: Melissa Cropper is president of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, a labor union representing about 20,000 teachers, social workers, librarians, and more across Ohio. Their focus is on statewide issues of legislation, policy, and political advocacy representing the professionals they serve, public education, and supporting services. Cropper also serves as Secretary-Treasurer of the Ohio AFL-CIO. She began her career as a school librarian.
Resources Mentioned
American Federation of Teachers
Why Fascists Fear Teachers by Randi Weingarten
About the Host: Nan Whaley is a long-time community leader and public servant. She’s currently the CEO of Planned Parenthood of Southwest Ohio. She served as Mayor of Dayton, Ohio, from 2014 to 2022. Nan has also presided over the United Conference of Mayors. She’s a feminist, daughter, aunt, sister, and friend.
About the Show: Carry As You Climb elevates the voices of women in leadership from Ohio and the rest of the United States. The podcast features guests who give special attention to not only busting through doors to lead but also holding the door open for more women to enter behind them. In other words, they carry as they climb. We focus on leadership development and leadership lessons. Plus, we share personal experiences to inspire the inclusion of more diverse leaders in business, government and the nonprofit sector.
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Produced by: Collective Change Communications - Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler
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