Ellie Harmon

My name is Ellie Harmon and I am a Senior Instructor in Computer Science. I teach courses in introductory programming, human-computer interaction, and computer ethics. In my ~free time~ I conduct research about the promises, threats, and impacts of contemporary computing. I thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2008 and the Pacific Crest Trail in 2013. I first got involved in a union while I was at UC Irvine and our graduate student union negotiated successfully for fair wages, health insurance, and affordable student housing, making it possible for graduate student workers to teach students, produce novel research, and still survive the high cost of living in Southern California. Here at PSU, I am excited to share the Computer Science PSU-AAUP Unit Rep duties with our colleague Andrew Black; I also contribute to the work of the NTTF Caucus Steering Committee in advance of the next round of contract bargaining. In the academy, it can be easy to get wrapped up in the joys of research and teaching, or the concerns and care we have for our students, and forget that we are workers. AAUP is essential for ensuring that we are fairly compensated, that our workloads are reasonable, and that we have the resources and support we need to actually carry out the mission of the University.