New delegate says technology creates advantages for leaders

Chapter 0400 Ashtabula leader and first-time convention delegate, Betsy Overly, says she has been active in the union for years on the local level but hasn't always been able to give her time to statewide participation.

"The health and safety of my people is my first priority," says Betsy, an activist and steward representing Ohio Dept. of Natural Resources union members in northeast Ohio. Her health and safety committee is very active, especially with the recent global pandemic. "The pandemic, in all its terribleness, however, has created many advantages for union members and myself," she says. The past year has given her an opportunity to communicate more with her members and keep them updated. She says technology, including Zoom meetings, has allowed her to participate more as an ODNR delegate, meet with members and get more information back to them quickly.

Betsy says she' been excited about the virtual Convention and being able to "take the full opportunity to learn more on this forward journey," she said. "I care so much about my members, and I do not take the responsibilities lightly. I wish I had spent more time in the past, but I am making up for it now," says Betsy.

"I will fight with honor and integrity for the contract and the people that live and work under it," she says is her top priority as a union member and activist.

Above is Chapter 0400 Ashtabula activist Betsy Overly, who is attending convention for the first time this year. An ODNR employee, she enjoys time outside and being with her family.