The Evote system will be available from November 17 (8 am) to November 24, 2014 (1 pm)
EVote Procedures (Please carefully read all instructions):
To access your ballot, go to the following link: http://evote.yorku.ca/
(If your web browser does not open automatically, copy the address above, paste it into the Address box on your browser and press Enter).
You will need your Passport York username and password to sign-in to the EVote system. If you do not have a Passport York username and password, go to the following link: http://www.yorku.ca/computing/facultystaff/accounts/passportyork.html and follow the instructions on how to get a Passport York account.
Once you have successfully logged-in, the first screen will identify the position you are voting for and the voting period. The second screen is the ballot. The ballot will name the candidate(s) who are running for the various positions. You will see 4 ballots in total – one for each position listed below. Select the appropriate candidate(s). If you wish to change your selection, click the ‘clear ballot’ button. To confirm your selection, click the ‘continue’ button. The EVote system will confirm your ballot has been successfully submitted. This will end your voting session.
Results of the vote will be announced via the YUSA listserv and by inter-campus mail after the voting period closes (24 November 2014).
For questions regarding your voter eligibility status contact the Elections Committee: yusapuyelections@gmail.com.
If you require detailed instructions on how to access the EVote system, please go the following link on the YUSA Website: https://yusapuy.ca/pension-changes-e-voting-instructions/ (instructions from the Pension EVote are posted which apply to all EVote processes).
Candidate statements are available to view at the following websites:
President (one to be elected)
Paula Gowdie Rose
Giulio Malfatti
1st Vice-President (one to be elected)
Sandy Bell
Wanda Hollingshead
2nd Vice-President (one to be elected)
Michael Belanger
Kimberly Wilson
Bargaining Committee/Member at Large (three to be elected)
Michael Belanger
Wendy Galarza
Paula Gowdie Rose
Dan Tilling
Judy Tse
In solidarity,
Elections Committee
Breanne Whitwell, Chair, Constitution & Policy Committee
Scarlett Farquhar, Glendon Officer
Janet Brewer, Chair, Job Evaluation Committee
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CANDIDATE STATEMENTS – President
Paula Gowdie Rose
I have been nominated as a candidate for the President’s position, as well as a Bargaining Committee Member-at-Large position.
I am excited at the prospect of serving the YUSAPUY membership in a more focused way as a full time officer. Of my twenty-three (23) years of working at York, seventeen (17) of these have been spent serving the YUSAPUY membership in various capacities while working full time:
• Member, YUSAPUY Executive Board 2001-present
• Member, YUSAPUY Health and Safety Committee 1997-present
Chair 2001-2011
Co-Chair 2012-present
• Member, YUSAPUY Joint Health and Safety Committee 1997-present
Labour Co-Chair 2010-present
• Steward 2000-present
• Member, Joint Workplace Accommodation Committee 2009-present
• Member, Grievance Committee 2013-present
• Co-Chair, Bargaining Committee 2014
Additionally, I have served as a member of the Joint Ergonomics Committee (2001-2013), and the Chair of the All Unions Health and Safety Committee at York University (2006).
I have represented many YUSAPUY members in 7.07 meetings, return to work meetings, accommodation meetings and work refusals, and participated in arbitrations, drafted health and safety language in the YUSAPUY Collective Agreement, developed processes and best practices for the best interests of YUSAPUY members, and since 2002, have actively participated in negotiation (bargaining) proceedings around occupational health and safety, including workplace accommodations, as well as bargaining a new contract this past year as a Member-at-Large of the Bargaining Committee.
My involvement has not only enabled me to meet and provide support to YUSAPUY members, it has also facilitated personal development and skill development. In my various roles, I have worked alongside dedicated YUSAPUY colleagues, and in some instances, with York managers. Since 1997, I have been able to practice social justice, personal ethics, advocacy, labour relations and collaborations with the various York unions. These, and other acquired skills, as well as my collective experiences, provide a solid foundation for successfully leading YUSAPUY as the next President, as well as participating in the Bargaining Committee as a Member-at-Large.
Your continued support is greatly appreciated!
1 It should be noted that the President is naturally the chief negotiator of the YUSAPUY Bargaining Committee. Therefore, a vote for President will achieve succession to both positions, while enabling another YUSAPUY member to participate in the Bargaining Committee.
Giulio Malfatti
2014 Election Statement for Position of President
The position of President of the York University Staff Association/Association Du Personnel De L’Universite York (YusApuY) is unlike any other position within the union. It is the position that the membership counts on to ensure the smooth operation of the union, to ensure that the entire Collective Agreement is adhered to by the employer and to make the day to day decisions that are in the best interests of the entire membership. It is the position that Chairs (or Co-chairs) of YusApuY committees, union stewards, the First and Second YusApuY Vice-Presidents, the YusApuY Executive Board, individual members, etc. turn to for advice, council, direction, pivotal guidance and/or mentoring. It is the position that has the greatest impact upon YusApuY simply because of the Constitutional authority it has been given by the membership.
The individual who occupies the position of President needs to be someone who understands all of the issues that face YusApuY, someone who, as the saying goes, knows where all of the dots are and knows how to connect them. These dots range from the impact of grievances and arbitrations, not just on individuals but the union as a whole, pension issues, government legislation, job evaluation/pay equity, dealing with York University senior management, etc. There is nothing that happens in isolation, there are domino effects and the President needs to know how those effects will impact the membership and needs to know how to respond to them.
I have been employed at York University since July 1990 and became actively involved with YusApuY in 1996, first as a steward and then as a York University Pension Trustee. In 1997 I was elected to the YusApuY Grievance Committee and became the Grievance Committee representative to the Bargaining Committee. Since 1997 I have been a member of each YusApuY Bargaining Committee. In the fall of 2002 I was first elected into the position of First Vice President and was subsequently re-elected into that position for the following ten consecutive terms, and in the fall of 2013 I was elected President for 2014.
I have spent approximately eighteen of my twenty-four years at York actively involved and serving the YusApuY membership in a variety of roles and for twelve of those years I have been in the union office on a full time basis.
I truly believe that I have demonstrated over the past twelve years that I can meet the challenges that face YusApuY on a daily basis, that I can make the decisions and give the type of guidance that truly benefits the YusApuY membership, that my actions have shown my competence in the roles which I have been elected to as well as a true and honest commitment to the membership, and that my experience has lead me to be uniquely qualified to continue to serve as President.
I welcome this election, as it is part of what makes an independent union such as YusApuY stronger and healthier.
In closing I ask for your support to continue as President of YusApuY for 2015.
Thank You.
Giulio Malfatti
FIRST VICE-PRESIDENT
Sandy Bell
With the completion of another successful AGM a good number of members from both Unit 1 and Unit 2 have put their names forward for elected positions. Unions epitomize democracy and I am thrilled to see the democratic process unfolding for this year’s election period. It was also great to see our YusApuY members from the Glendon campus.
Not only do unions promote democracy, but they also promote fairness: fairness in the workplace (limits the rights of management); economic fairness (pay equity); and social justice (Confederation of Canadian Unions).
Section 74 of the Labour Relations Act deals with the duty of fair representation by trade unions and stipulates that a trade union (including its elected officials and stewards) are required under the act to represent every employee of the unit whether members or not. This means we are not permitted to pass judgment by picking and choosing those we represent. In terms of workplace fairness, this is a good thing.
My list of committee work is not long, however, it is meaningful. Much of my union work for the last 10 years has centered on job evaluation, pay equity, stewarding and, currently, 1st Vice President. In retrospect, I’ve learned that committee work alone does not prepare you for full-time office. You must be able to handle conflict; investigate, analyze and look for solutions that may not be obvious and above all you must come from a position of strength not fear. You must be fully engaged and take initiative. This is not an 8:00 am to 4:00 pm job.
In the absence of the President it is the role of the 1st VP to become acting President. When Giulio became ill in March of this year, I stepped into his role with very little notice and successfully dealt with the business of the union that couldn’t wait. This included a termination and an options meeting as well as other union business in his absence.
I’ve had to write and investigate grievances, help members understand when there wasn’t a grievance and why. Explain how the attendance management program isn’t considered disciplinary, even though it feels like it is. I’ve had to consider what is in the best interest of the member as well as the membership at large. I’ve brought issues forward at Labour Management meetings. I am also an ex-officio non-voting member on all union committees.
We will be bargaining the Unit 2 contract in 2015. During the pay equity process, the Employer’s abuse of our temporary and interim employees became very apparent. It is extremely important for continuity (and to me) that I am able to continue with this process next year so that we can impress upon the Employer that our Unit 2 members are valued employees, not a source of cheap labour.
I have attended a workshop on Workplace Accommodation and Attendance Management Programs. I read newspapers and trade publications to keep abreast of labour relation issues and stay on top of current events that are pertinent to Unit 1 contract negotiations. When we need facts for our bargaining proposals, I’m typically the one who goes looking for them.
YusApuY continues to take an active role in the Confederation of Canadian Unions. It is through the affiliation with the CCU that we are able to promote political and social justice fairness that helps to ensure that the gains we make at the bargaining table are not removed or weakened by legislation. (Wage freezes, Bill C-377, the anti-union bill).
In closing, it’s important to acknowledge our amazing membership. It may be a cliché, but the sentiment remains so true — Our union is only as strong as our members. I encourage each and every one of you to find a way to become involved with your union. I welcome the opportunity to represent you all again in 2015.
I look forward to seeing you at the all-candidates’ meeting. Please attend and ask questions.
In solidarity,
Sandy Bell
1st Vice-President
York University Staff Association
Association du Personnel de L’Université York
Wanda Hollingshead
Thank you Zanita Shams for nominating me for the position of 1st Vice-President of YUSA for 2015.
I am Wanda Hollingshead and I wish to be your next YUSA 1st Vice President. I have been a member of the York University community since April 1987 and I have served YUSA in many ways.
1. As an active steward for over 10 years,
2. A member of the Grievance Committee as Chair from 2010 to 2012 inclusive and currently as Co-Chair,
3. A Job Evaluation Rater from 2005 to present.
4. The Treasurer for 2013,
5. A member of the Executive Board
6. I participated on the Bargaining Committee during the negotiations of the 2005, 2008 and 2011 Collective Agreements. Currently I am a part of the negotiating team working to finalize our next contract. It has been a long and daunting process but we are making steady strides to benefit all YUSA members.
My promise to you is to continue to reach for fair workplace practices, supporting worker rights and giving a voice to members. I believe that each member feel they can have their concerns dealt with promptly and rightfully. Every question and workplace concern should be given due diligence.
In my consistent involvement on many union committees spanning over 15 years, I have developed a broad knowledge and a multitude of strategies for our members regarding many issues facing YUSA members. I know that I will continue to offer solid leadership, guidance, dedication, and commitment to our 1500 plus members. I ask for your support when selecting the 1st VP of YUSA.
In Solidarity,
Wanda Hollingshead
SECOND VICE PRESIDENT
Michael Belanger
I would be pleased to serve YusApuy (York University Staff Association – Association du Personnel de L’Universite York) for another year as Second Vice President in 2015. I have very much enjoyed my first year in the Union. I have learned a great deal in 2014 and foresee that there is still more to learn in taking on this position once again.
I have demonstrated my commitment to our Union over the past years. I am one of our longest serving members on our Bargaining Committee. As well, I have very actively participated on the YusApuY Bargaining every year since 2002. I have been a member of our Executive Board for the past 12 years. I have also been an active ‘lead’ steward for many years. Finally, I am a ‘job-e rater’ on our Job Evaluation Committee.
I was Chair of the Constitution and Policy Committee from 2003 to 2013. During that time the Committee fully revamped our Constitution. More recently I was involved in bringing forward changes to our Constitution thereby making the Second Vice President a full time position.
I currently represent the Union on the following University Committees; the Pension Board of Trustees, the All University Committee on Pensions, the Cross Campus Alliance, and the York Parking Advisory Committee. Finally, I have represented YusAppuY on the Executive Board of the CCU/CSC (The Confederation of Canadian Unions/La Conféderation des Syndicats Canadiens) as the secretary for the past 7 years.
During this year as Second Vice President I have attained a wide variety of experience in dealing directly with the employer during Labour Management meetings, Arbitrations, Job Closures, Terminations, and the filing of Grievances and the follow-up Step 2 meetings, just to name a few. I have strived to represent our membership and union as a whole by actively listening to members’ concerns and counseling and advising and following through to complete the task at hand.
I am an individual who can get along with others and who can cultivate team building. In my opinion, this is of utmost importance when working with others in order to get the job done. I have a very good understanding of our pension plan and have developed my talents in order to become a strong experienced negotiator at the bargaining table. I can offer the strong leadership skills and dedication necessary to serve your needs in the Union. It would be an honour to continue to represent you next year and to work on your behalf to improve the working conditions of our community. If re-elected as Second Vice President I will work conscientiously toward these goals.
If you can, please attend the All-Candidates meetings on Nov. 11th and 12th. I will certainly do my best to answer any questions you may have. I would appreciate your continued support and your vote later in November.
In Solidarity,
Michael Belanger, M.Sc.
Kimberly Wilson
I became part of the York University community, first as a student in 1988, then as a casual worker in 1991, and finally as a YusApuY Unit 1 member in 1998. I have served the YusApuY Membership as a: Union Steward, Certified Health and Safety Worker Member, Chair of the Grievance Committee, Treasurer, member of the Executive Committee and the Ergonomics Committee, and participant in Job-E training.
As a Union Representative for the last 15 years and as someone who has gone through multiple job closures, I understand the multitude of challenges facing our members. If afforded the opportunity, I would be honoured to serve the YusApuY membership on a full-time basis.
Thank you,
Kimberly
BARGAINING COMMITTEE – Member-at-large
Michael Belanger
It is with great pleasure that I put my name forward again this year to be a part of our 2015 Bargaining Team. In 2015, the Bargaining Committee will be negotiating our Unit 2 Collective Agreement.
I have actively participated on the YusApuy (York University Staff Association – Association du Personnel de L’Universite York) bargaining team for the past five Collective Agreements for Unit 1. This includes the years 2002, 2005 (as co-chair), 2008, 2011 and currently in 2014. I have been on the Bargaining Committee every year since 2002.
In addition, I have been a member of the YUSA Executive Board for 11 years. As the previous Chair of the Constitution and Policy Committee for 10 years, I am very proud that during that time we completely updated our Constitution.
During my years spent on the Bargaining Committee, I have created, developed and continue to perfect a comprehensive ‘total compensation’ based spreadsheet to act as an aid in our negotiations. This can be useful when negotiating salaries and benefits. I have played an integral role in identifying and bringing forth Time Reporting Tool (TRT) issues in bargaining during the past year. I am also the unofficial parking expert. As a member of the ‘All University Committee on Pensions’ I have taken part in the negotiation of some non-monetary changes to the Pension Plan.
I feel it is especially important to have experienced, skilled, hard working individuals on our bargaining team. I am an individual who can get along with others and who can cultivate team building which is crucial during bargaining sessions. I know that I can offer the Bargaining Committee a strong leadership and dedication to serve your needs at the negotiation table. If elected to the Bargaining Committee I will continue to work diligently to represent our members.
If you can, please attend the All-Candidates meetings on Nov. 11th and 12th. I will do my best to discuss any questions you may have. I do appreciate your continued support and your vote later in November.
In Solidarity,
Michael Belanger, M.Sc.
Wendy Galarza
Are you a YUSA II member? Have you worked with YUSA II employees and believe that they have a right to have their concerns represented? Well, that is why I have been convinced to run for a position on the Bargaining Committee (member-at-large). I believe that it’s time to move our concerns out of the break rooms and lunchrooms. If YUSA II staff only share their concerns with each other there is no way for these concerns to ever be addressed. York has been a big part of my life. I have a B.A. in Political Science from York and I am also currently pursuing a second degree in English. Aside from being a student, my six years as a YUSA II (YUTA) member has allowed me to enjoy many different working experiences in various clerical, customer service and administrative positons. I have also met many YUSA II staff who, like me, work full-time at York and one of my interests is to bring to light the fact that we do not see our careers at York as “temporary”. I greatly appreciate your support and I look forward to creating better communication and understanding for all YUSA community members.
Dan Tilling
I joined York in 1979 and since then have been active in working for both full-time and part-time staff in YusApuY units 1 and 2. I am currently serving on both the Bargaining Committee and the Joint Health and Safety Committee. I am committed to making York a safe and pleasant place to work.
I see my role on the Bargaining Committee as valuable for all members, including impending retirees. I am proud of the important gains we’ve already accomplished and believe I can contribute more from the valuable experience I’ve gained at York from my previous on the Bargaining Committee. I am a dedicated, hard working and bankable committee member.
Judy Tse
York University has been my home away from home for most of my adult years. My journey at York began academically and professionally. Whilst completing two Bachelor’s degrees at York concurrently, I was employed as a Casual Employee, and eventually a Work Study employee. As a Casual and Work Study employee, I recognized and took pleasure in seeing how much possibility, growth, and opportunities were at York. As a student with vested interest in the future and reputation of York University, I felt the reverberations of the 2008-2009 CUPE strike. As I crossed the picket line each morning for work I was reminded of my disrupted studies and the direct implications of employee relations to student success. I witnessed the power of solidarity, quite literally. I saw firsthand how employees were rewarded for their hard work and protected by their union. However, when my educational chapter at York ended, so did my jobs. I moved on to complete my Master’s degree at another institution as I was given a full scholarship. With a Master’s of Education specializing in Teaching, Learning, and Development, I aspire to bring effective, timely, and invigorated change to the places in my life that I care most about. I want my colleagues and myself to be empowered in the workplace, and a feeling of mastery in their skills.
What I lack in experience, I make up with in my passion for student success, thereby bringing up the reputation of our workplace and its employees. As a member of Unit 2, I want to ensure we are provided with better working conditions. I no longer wish to perceive that Unit 2 employees are secondary, because it is only in solidarity that we create change. I want to see an end to Casual employees, Unit 2 employees, and sometimes even Work Study employees doing the work of Unit 1 employees. I wish to ensure that ALL employees are given due credit and compensation for their work. Having been a Casual Employee, and a Unit 2 employee, I am prepared and invested in making changes in areas that are of utmost importance. As a member of the bargaining unit, I recognize this position to be one with utmost responsibility. The value that we put on our work is integral to our standard of living, and living fulfilling lives. I would like YUSA to be the powerhouse that effects change in better working conditions for their employees that reverberates their feats to other unions within York University and other institutions.
Yours in solidarity,
Judy Tse
