David Paterson experienced first-hand the difference education can make — a perspective that has shaped his long track record of support for public education and suggests what one of his priorities will be as governor.

"New York is already getting to know the new governor as a leader who is ready to work collaboratively to advance public education, strengthen the economy and move New York forward," said NYSUT President Dick Iannuzzi.

Paterson's mother, who was a teacher, was the force who ensured her son, who is legally blind, would be mainstreamed in Hempstead schools. He went on to graduate from high school in three years and earn a history degree from Columbia University and a law degree from Hofstra.

"As a Senate Democratic leader, David Paterson was a staunch supporter of the Campaign for Fiscal Equity — he united his conference around the issue of fair funding for public education," said Alan Lubin, NYSUT executive vice president.

The state's first African- American governor, Paterson is also the nation's first chief executive who is legally blind.

"He represents the common values that we hold, that we believe, that in spite of handicaps it's possible to succeed," said Lubin. "That's what our teachers reinforce in the classroom every day."

Transformation

As a youngster, Paterson was mentored and inspired by his sixth-grade teacher in Hempstead, Clarice Broderick.

Speaking at NYSUT's annual convention, the Representative Assembly, in 2006, he paid tribute to her support and inspiration. Paterson also addressed delegates on the need to narrow the achievement gap and to provide schools resources to educate all students.

In his 20 years in the Senate, Paterson made time to teach as an adjunct professor at Columbia's School for International and Public Affairs.

Health care issues

NYSUT's health care members will be interested to know that the state's new first lady, Michelle Paige Paterson, has been setting the course for improved health care for years.

Most recently, she directed healthy living and wellness programs for an HMO, reflecting her professional goal of reducing childhood obesity — also the mission of NYSUT's student program for healthy eating and exercise, 24/7 Let's Go!

Gov. Paterson has worked for decades on good causes.

"He was involved in human and social justice issues, and lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender causes years before they became popular," said Paul Webster, NYSUT coordinator of community outreach.

He recalled Paterson's "doggedness in fighting for what was right" that made a difference in protecting an African-American burial ground in lower Manhattan that was to become the site of the federal courthouse.

" Paterson is a progressive leader who has a record as a consensus builder who can get things done," said Iannuzzi. "After more than two decades in the state Senate — including several years as minority leader and 14 months as lieutenant governor — he has the leadership experience to move the state forward."

Iannuzzi recalled catching up with Paterson at the New York State Fair in Syracuse as Paterson neared the end of a blistering day meeting and greeting voters.

"As we crossed paths," Iannuzzi said, "I was struck by the fact that despite the heat and the long day, he was tireless and genuine in his remarks as he advocated for the needs not only of children and workers, but of all of New York state."

— Liza Frenette