Marna Davidson and Alvin Graham played signi ficant roles in the creation of the strong, unified organization that is NYSUT. The two Retiree of the Year award winners spoke to delegates in addresses punctuated by applause and ending in standing ovations. 

Graham eloquently acknowledged his supporters. "I discarded the first draft of the remarks I had planned for this afternoon because it was turning out to be a list of names," said Graham who thanked the assemblage and paid special tribute to Ruth Dworkin, president of Retiree Council 15 and 16. "You may not realize it, but all of you have been my role models and mentors, and I am grateful."

Graham, a member of the Mamaroneck TA and an executive committee member of RC 15 and 16, was one of NYSUT's original retiree organizers. His work helped to shape the current NYSUT retiree structure. An active unionist for 50 years, he is a staunch supporter of NYSUT's political action program and a tireless advocate for public education.

In accepting his award, Graham closed with a Hebrew saying. "It is not written that you must finish the work, but neither is it written that you may desist from it," he quoted. "To me, it implies that we look to the future as we continue to make NYSUT even greater than it is. Thank you for everything," said Graham.

"We may be retired, but we're not expired," quipped United Federation of Teachers retiree Marna Davidson who captivated delegates with a history-rich recounting of her years as a unionist and educator. "I grew up in my union, learned what political action was all about and even walked across the Brooklyn Bridge," she said of her legendary march with UFT leader Al Shanker and then-District 2 Representative Ivan Tiger. "I've always fought for issues and for our children."

A member of the UFT's Retiree Council 2, Davidson has been a union leader and activist for 42 years. She serves the UFT Florida office, ensuring that members receive important information on issues ranging from health, pension and union concerns to educational and cultural activities.

"What a career! What a trip! What a life!" said Davidson. "My thanks to all of you - my UFT, my NYSUT, my AFT."