CTA seeks new executive director

CTA is conducting a national search for a new executive director, following the departure of Joe Nuñez in July. (Gail Gregorio is the interim executive director.)

The executive director guides the work of CTA, the premier voice in California for high-quality public education for all students and one of state’s largest and most dynamic labor organizations. Through its 1,000 chapters and 310,000 members, CTA vigorously advocates for the employment rights of public education employees and the civil rights of the students whom they serve.

The executive director reports to the Board of Directors. The board is seeking an experienced leader who possesses a bold and broad vision for CTA’s role in promoting public education and racial and social justice, and who can help CTA grow with strong organizing programs and engaged members.

Farewell & thank you to Joe Nuñez

Joe Nuñez served as CTA executive director for six years, and during that time helped lead CTA to multiple victories for public education.

“While Joe was at the helm, we passed an unprecedented tax increase for public education and the largest school funding initiatives in the countrywith Propositions 30 and 55,” says CTA President E. Toby Boyd. “ Joe’s guidance was instrumental in keeping CTA strong and vibrant as we stood against the corporate, anti-public education forces that had declared the demise of labor unions with the Janus v. AFSCME Supreme Court decision.

“Similarly, he led statewide coalition efforts to defeat multiple attacks on our union rights and attempts to silence the voices of workers.”

Boyd praises Nuñez’s strong advocacy in setting education policy in California that focuses on students and the needs in our classrooms, and notes the legacy he leaves. “His leadership and contributions over the last 25 years have left a lasting mark on this state and created a brighter future for millions of students.”

Nuñez has more than 45 years of experience in California public education. Prior to serving as CTA executive director, he was the CTA Governmental Relations director in Sacramento, where he also served on the State Board of Education and ranked high on Capitol Weekly’s Top 100 list. During his CTA career, which began in 1995, Nuñez served as field staff, legislative advocate and regional manager. In addition, he was a high school teacher in Santa Maria for 20 years.