Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/851305
SUMMER 2017 | ADVOCATE 17 Around AEA Roosevelt Education Association member Britne Hart, also a first-time Delegate, says, "What I like about Delegate Assembly is actually being on the floor with all of the teachers and talking about new business. I think it is so exciting and it inspires me to be more active in my professional association." Veteran delegate and Scottsdale Education Association member Heather Robinson says she always looks forward to Delegate Assembly because she walks away feeling very inspired and she enjoys reconnecting with friends from all over the state. AEA Vice President Marisol Garcia introduced state legislators to the delegates and made a powerful case for donating to the AEA PAC fund, the AEA Fund for Public Education and Children, and what's at stake in the next election. The AEA PAC was able to break last year's record donations which will be used to support pro-public education candidates in the state legislative races. Many delegates stated they would donate their 1% stipend from the governor to the PAC. "Contributing to PAC gives teachers a seat at the table, it gives us political power, and we actually get to influence policy at the Arizona Legislature," says Marana Education Association member and AEA board member Nicole Cozad. "It's very exciting to be a part of that and make a difference." "I hope we can move education forward in a positive way," says Phoenix Union High School District member Sunshine Tye. On the second day of Delegate Assembly, AEA honored members and friends at the Salute to Excellence Awards luncheon (winners on page 18). AEA also presented attorney Tim Hogan with the AEA Friend of Education Award. After 26 years, Hogan recently stepped down as executive director of the Arizona Center for Law in the Public Interest. Hogan has represented plaintiffs, including AEA, in several landmark lawsuits against the state of Arizona on education funding. "I couldn't do this work without all of you," says Hogan on receiving the award. "Every one of these cases has involved teachers being there throughout the legal process." Hogan was also recognized by the National Education Association in 2011 with the Human and Civil Rights Award for his work toward the achievement of equal opportunity for Hispanics. Hogan encouraged delegates to keep fight the good fight. "You have to be patient, you have to have perseverance, and, most importantly, you have to believe that the future is going to be brighter."