ALBANY, N.Y., Dec. 7, 2009 – Andrew Pallotta, a veteran New York City public school educator and United Federation of Teachers leader, has been elected executive vice president of New York State United Teachers by the union’s Board of Directors.

Pallotta, who as a UFT district representative in the Bronx represented 57 local school chapters, will head NYSUT’s legislative and political action department. He succeeds Alan Lubin, who will retire in January after serving more than 16 years in the post.

NYSUT President Richard C. Iannuzzi said he is confident that, under Pallotta‘s leadership, NYSUT will continue to build upon the record of success achieved during Lubin’s tenure.

“Andy is the right choice for these tough times, and his experience, dedication and temperament will be an asset to the union,” Iannuzzi said. “He will be a strong and clear voice for our members as we continue our work in protecting and defending public education, vital programs and services, and the professions which NYSUT represents.”

“The challenges are many,” said Pallotta. “But we have a great organization at NYSUT with high ideals and values. With the involvement of our engaged members, I’m confident we will move our agenda of public education and health care forward. I’ve always believed in hard work and going that extra mile, and I want to accomplish great things for NYSUT members and the communities they serve.”

Pallotta, an art and physical education teacher at PS 32 in the Fordham section of the Bronx, has spent 24 years in the classroom. As the UFT’s District 10 representative since September 2006, Pallotta served extensively in a wide range of negotiating, lobbying, political outreach and community-relations roles. He also has served as a delegate to NYSUT, UFT and American Federation of Teachers conventions and as a member of the UFT Executive Board.

Lubin’s retirement will cap a distinguished career that spanned more than four decades as a teacher and union leader with both the UFT and NYSUT.

“Alan has been instrumental in making NYSUT the positive force that it is today for public education and health care,” Iannuzzi said. “While his success in the legislative and political action arena speaks for itself, it should also be noted that Alan has been a tireless champion throughout his career for social justice and civil rights – values that our members not only hold dear, but that also guide the work to which NYSUT is committed.”

NYSUT, the state’s largest union, represents more than 600,000 classroom teachers and other school employees; faculty and other professionals at the state’s community colleges; State University of New York and City University of New York; and other education and health professionals. NYSUT is affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers, National Education Association and AFL-CIO.