Candidates: Ben Arenger, Maria Eva Dorigo, Mary Gragen, Melissa Hartland, Jessica Hunsdon, Isaac Jimenez, Simanti Lahiri, Mary Ellen Maguire, Josephine Nagle, Christine O’Connell, Arly Rubens
Statements
Mary Gragen Theater – Program Coordinator 1: I am pursuing a master’s degree in labor and Employment Relations at Rutgers and have been actively involved in IATSE (International Association of Theatrical Stage Employees) for over 15 years. Through my recent academic work and association with my local, I’ve developed a strong interest in how policy, CBA strategy, and leadership can shape outcomes for the membership. I am interested in serving as a national delegate to deepen my understanding of labor relations at the national level and contribute thoughtfully to discussions. I would like to participate not only to learn, but to actively support strategic decision-making that strengthens URA’s long-term effectiveness and solidarity.
Melissa Hartland MFA Creative Writing Program Coordinator: I have been part of the URA since I started my full-time Rutgers Employment in 2008. I currently serve as Campus VP for the Newark Campus. I fully believe in all members having a voice, and I would be so honored to represent that voice at the National AFT Convention this year.
Jessica Hunsdon Graduate School of Education, Program Coordinator (on union leave to serve as Executive Vice President): As the Executive Vice President of our union, I work directly with members on issues that matter most to them – whether that be fighting against increasing workplace surveillance (e.g. Facial Recognition Timeclocks), fighting for Flex Work, advocating for members in the grievance process and meetings with management, or organizing for our contract campaign. I am currently on union leave from my role as a Program Coordinator for the Graduate School of Education, working directly for you as a full-time elected officer. Serving as a delegate will allow me to represent our union at a state and national level and bring what matters to you into those governing spaces.
Isaac Jimenez SASN Dean’s Office – Editorial/Media Spec I: As a delegate in the 2024 AFT National Convention, I met other AFT members across the country to advance a floor resolution speaking to the genocide in Gaza. I believe it’s important our National union take bold stances for human rights, and against U.S. imperialism. For 2026, I’d work in Committee at the Convention to advance calling for the abolition of ICE, and for joining other national unions in building out May Day 2028 action. It’s critical URA have relationships with other AFT locals and I commit to be organizing throughout the convention.
Mary Ellen Maguire Rutgers English Language Institute – International Student Advisor: I am honored to be nominated to represent URA-AFT Local 1766 at the AFT National Convention. I am the Lead Steward on the Livingston Campus and I previously represented our union at the AFT National Convention in 2024. I believe in listening to our members’ concerns and will represent our local by focusing on workplace issues that affect our daily lives. I believe in building bridges with other locals in New Jersey, strengthening our bargaining power to fight for pay equity, safe working conditions, and job security. I am dedicated to representing our diverse membership on these issues that unite us all.
Josephine “Jo” Nagle: I am seeking your vote to represent URA-AFT Local 1766 at the 2026 AFT New Jersey state convention, the AFT national convention, and the AFT New Jersey Delegate Assembly. I have proudly represented URA in the past at the conventions and the delegate assembly. I hope to continue to provide a balanced voice that represents our diverse membership. I listen to everyone, but I stick to the “bread and butter” issues that directly affect our jobs. I am also committed to building strong, professional relationships with other locals across New Jersey and the nation to increase our collective bargaining leverage, without getting distracted by divisive politics. I would appreciate your vote.
Christine O’Connell President: As President of URA, I am very familiar with our concerns and priorities and represent our staff interests at the National level. It is vital that staff get acknowledgement and respect as we are integral to Rutgers and any institution where we work.