Introducing Daneen Bergland

My name is Daneen Bergland and I teach for University Studies. This year I’m serving on the AAUP Communication Committee. When I was hired eight years ago, I signed up to be a union member right away because I come from a “union family” and had seen the difference it had made in my parents’ careers. Watching the union negotiate our last contract, and participating in that fight, brought the union’s potential power into full view for me personally. The benefits we gained from that contract have changed my life, my teaching, and my commitment to PSU. My union membership is also important to my teaching. As an instructor, my goal is to help students develop the skills and knowledge to be informed, active citizens and problem-solvers. Participating in the union integrates my teaching philosophy of civic engagement with my professional life.