NEW YORK , April 12, 2008 — John Soldini, a union leader and activist for more than 40 years, was presented with New York State United Teachers' "Retiree of the Year" award at NYSUT's 36 th Representative Assembly in Manhattan this week, in front of 3,000 delegates from across the state.
Soldini taught social studies to generations of Staten Island students at Tottenville High School from 1965-2002.
"John Soldini has committed his life's work to teaching and unionism," said NYSUT President Richard C. Iannuzzi. "His commitment to the students and schools of Staten Island, and of the entire city, is an inspiration to those members and activists following in his footsteps."
He served the members of the United Federation of Teachers in a variety of leadership roles, from Staten Island district representative to UFT vice president from 1987-2002. He was also a member of the NYSUT Board of Directors from 1989-2002. Since his retirement, Soldini has served as vice chairman of the UFT retired teachers chapter.
Soldini is a long-time Democratic party activist, and served as a delegate at the party's historic 1968 and 1972 national conventions. He has been affiliated with the Council for Unity, a school-based anti-violence initiative, for more than 20 years. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1953-1956.
"John continues to be a strong, articulate voice on issues affecting public schools and the people we serve," said NYSUT Vice President Kathleen Donahue. "Whether it's an elected official's office in Albany or Washington, or a local school board meeting, John is there representing his community."
NYSUT represents more than 585,000 teachers, school-related professionals, academic and professional faculty in higher education, professionals in education and health care and retirees. NYSUT is affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers, National Education Association and the AFL-CIO.
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