Candidate for CSEA Local 828 President Bess Watts

Bess Watts
photo:  Lynn Miller

"Bess Watts is a natural born leader. I am very inspired by her organizational skills and her ability to follow through and complete every project she tackles. There is no doubt in my mind we are a better union because of Bess and her hard work."

-Joyce Medwin, Retiree, former President of MCC Unit 7402

In 2008, Bess Watts was the recipient of the Community Solidarity Award presented by the Rochester Labor Council for her “dedication and commitment to all Union members.” A U.S. Army Veteran and 15 year Monroe Community College employee, Bess has been a member of CSEA for 14 years.

Presently, Bess is the chair of CSEA Local 828 Women’s Committee, a delegate to the Rochester Labor Council, Vice President of Unit 7402 and President of Pride at Work AFL-CIO, a constituency group chapter in Rochester, N.Y.

A vocal and visible political activist, Bess has proven successful in coalition building including working with the Faculty Association in the successful bid to stop the flawed MCC Presidential search process. Watts says, “Complacency and the status quo won’t protect our jobs, wages and benefits. We must be proactive, build strong communication loops and empower our members if we want to thrive as working people.”

Bess Watts is the candidate for President of Local 828 on the Voice for the Members Slate.