How Would You Shape OSEA?
For more than 80 years, our union has held an annual Conference, where delegations from every chapter meet to share ideas, debate and make decisions to guide our union in the years ahead. Our 87th annual Conference will be held Thursday-Saturday, June 26th-28th. If you would like to take part in leading OSEA into the future, now is the time to take action!
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By the OSEA Resolutions/Constitution Committee
All OSEA members are invited to propose an amendment to OSEA’s governing documents – our Constitution, Board Policy and Standing Rules. These documents set union policies, define the roles of union leaders and guide OSEA’s actions. Our governing documents were created by OSEA members and members can make changes to them by proposing resolutions, which are then voted on by delegates at Conference.
In accordance with the OSEA Constitution, your Resolutions/Constitution Committee has been charged with informing and assisting members in the governance of their association. Our committee is made up of member volunteers who can help you create and submit a resolution. We are here to provide expertise, training and support. Our committee can provide the required guidelines, materials and forms, formatting assistance, and advice on presenting your idea or action so Conference delegates can make an informed decision.
If you are interested in submitting a resolution and need assistance, now is the time to contact the Resolutions/Constitution Committee! Simply reach out to Committee Chair Bob Bradetich at resolutions@osea.org. Once you have contacted us, the committee will assist you through the process of writing and submitting your resolution.
Submit a Resolution Contact the Resolutions/Constitution Committee
2024-25 Resolutions/Constitution Committee
Bob Bradetich, Chair, Lifetime Member
Ralph Freilinger, Bend-La Pine Chapter 6
Susan Hardy, ROSE
Samantha Horton, North Clackamas Chapter 71
Kau’i Woolfolk, Tillamook Chapter 28
Sella Bemrose, Board Liaison, Zone III Director
Rob Wheaton, Staff Liaison, Director of Field Operations
Sarah Wofford, OSEA President
OSEA’s Board of Directors is an elected group of committed members who lead our union at the state level. The Board is made up of three executive officers – the President, Vice President and Secretary – and seven directors representing each of OSEA’s seven regional zones.
Any member who has been in good standing for at least 12 months may run for a position on the Board. This year, delegates will elect members to serve as President, Vice President, Secretary and Directors for Zones I, III, V and VII. Statewide officers serve three-year terms, and Zone Directors serve two-year terms.
Active OSEA members can nominate themselves or another member for any of these positions. Nominations can be made any time before Conference or by delegates from the Conference floor. Candidates who are nominated by March 1st, 2025, may submit a photo and candidate statement for publication in the spring issue of the Journal.
Conference delegates are the voice for their chapters during Conference, where they make decisions that influence the course of OSEA in the future. Delegates debate and vote on resolutions, pass the annual budget and elect Board members. Serving as a delegate is a great way to have an impact, connect with fellow members from across the state and see our union in action.
Delegates are elected by their chapter. The number of delegates your chapter can send to Conference is determined by the size of your chapter: every chapter is entitled to one delegate, with an additional delegate for every five members or fraction thereof, up to a maximum of 10 delegates.
Delegates must be active members in good standing. Your chapter constitution may have additional requirements for who can serve as delegates; in some chapters, the officers are automatically delegates for example.
Chapter officers should make sure to schedule meetings in April, May or June to elect delegates following these guidelines. If you are interested in representing your chapter as a delegate, let your chapter president know and watch for information about a chapter meeting when nominations will be accepted.
Conference is about more than just business – it's also a time for our union to celebrate the outstanding members who go above and beyond! Nominating a member for an OSEA award is a great way to show them that their work for our union is seen and appreciated.
Member of the Year: Previously known as the Employee of the Year, this award recognizes outstanding service to education programs, communities and our union. Every chapter can nominate one member each year, and the winner is chosen by a panel of previous State Presidents. Nominations are due March 15th.
Government Relations Member Advocate: Recipients of this award are honored for their long history of participation and leadership in OSEA’s government relations activities. Nominations are due March 1st.
Lifetime Membership: The highest honor OSEA can bestow on a member, Lifetime Membership is awarded to individuals who have provided outstanding service on a statewide basis, and who have displayed an ongoing commitment to OSEA, our members and our ideals. Nominations are due March 1st.
Newsy: This award celebrates excellence in chapter communications as OSEA chapters inform, educate and entertain their members through newsletters, websites and social media. Nominations are due March 15th.
All Conference activities will be held at the Holiday Inn Portland – Columbia Riverfront. Delegates traveling to attend are encouraged to make hotel reservations as soon as possible to ensure rooms are available. Reservations can be made online or by calling (503) 283-4466; let them know you are with OSEA.
Conference participation is essential to ensure every chapter has a voice in our union. OSEA offers Conference scholarships to help chapters cover the costs of lodging, meals and Conference registration. Chapters should apply by June 1st for priority consideration.
You can help others participate in Conference by donating to the scholarship fund. This is a great way to show solidarity with chapters across the state.
Donate to the Scholarship Fund
Regardless of how you decide to make a difference, our union works best when every member is informed, engaged and involved!