Glenda Cowen

Glenda Cowen, a former member of the NYSUT Board of Directors and longtime union leader in the North Country, died July 6; she was 70.

Cowen taught middle-level science for 34 years at St. Lawrence Central Schools.

She was introduced to the union early in her career. When a group of extracurricular teachers were excluded from negotiations, Cowen figured the union wasn't for her. She would change her mind.

"The only way I was going to get that injustice corrected was to join the union and be active," Cowen said in a 2003 New York Teacher series honoring women union pioneers.

She went on to serve as a building representative for the St. Lawrence Central United Teachers, later becoming vice president and president.

A longtime activist with NYSUT's Committee of 100, "Glenda spent her time selflessly advancing the betterment of the lives of NYSUT members and the constituents we serve through political action," NYSUT Executive Vice President Alan Lubin said.

After retiring, Cowen remained active in the union, serving as president of Retiree Council 9.

"Glenda was a valued member of the Retiree Advisory Committee, an avid VOTE-COPE fund raiser and strong advocate for NYSUT retirees," said NYSUT Vice President Kathleen Donahue.

She is survived by a son, Christopher (Heather); a daughter, Michelle (Jeffrey); and granddaughters Katherine and Natalie. She was predeceased by her husband, Eli.

Contributions may be made to the Potsdam Volunteer Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 700, Potsdam, NY 13676.