Harrison teacher to lead New York State United Teachers

Promising a new era of change, Karen Magee, a former teacher from Harrison, will lead the New York State United Teachers union.

Representing the largest union in the state, NYSUT delegates elected Magee on Saturday at the group’s annual representative assembly in New York City.

A elementary and special-education teacher for nearly 30 years, Magee is most well known for her longtime presidency of the Harrison Association of Teachers. She will succeed Richard C. Iannuzzi, who has led the union since 2005. 

“Our team stands for change, and our work begins now,” Magee said in a press release. Magee led her campaign largely on a promise to revitalize NYSUT and carry forward a new generation of activism. 

‘That includes taking on the tough fights and communicating clearly with decision makers at every level,” Magee said. “We will be the voice they cannot ignore. We will defend public education and public service. Period.”

The union spent roughly $2.2 million lobbying in Albany last year. It represents more than 600,000 members.