BEN velez
Running for: Area Chief Steward, SoS & Multi
I am a third-year Biology student studying proteostasis, and I am running on the BOLD slate for Area Chief Steward in the School of Science to advocate for my fellow graduate scientists. At a time when science is increasingly under attack at the national level, it is more important than ever that we stand united to support one another and the value of our work. Over the past year, I have organized with the union as Department Chief Steward representing Micro/Bio/CSB. Together, we’ve fought for safer workplaces by improving visibility around hazards like liquid nitrogen and have won grievances ensuring that workers kept their appointments and received back pay. We have also strengthened our union’s presence in Micro/Bio/CSB, making it one of the most active departments. I now hope to continue this work across the School of Science, building solidarity to secure an excellent contract that reflects graduate workers’ contributions.