NEA General Counsel Bob Chanin has called his 41 years at NEA "the closest you can get to having a well-paying job doing pro bono work."
Chanin has briefed and argued five cases before the U.S. Supreme Court and has filed amicus curiae briefs in another 25. Under Chanin's legal guidance, the NEA achieved a breakthrough in 1965 by becoming the first professional organization to desegregate. The then-predominantly White NEA merged at the national level with the American Teachers Association, which represented Black teachers. It took 10 years to enforce the merger on sometimes reluctant state affiliates. Chanin helped to oust all-White Mississippi and Louisiana teachers' groups that refused to integrate.
NEA Vice President Lily Eskelsen presents Bob Chanin with a "Show Us Your Amicus Briefs" T-shirt — the brainchild of the Bob Chanin Caucus — at the 2008 Representative Assembly.
Pre-Eminent Advocate
Chanin, a widely recognized authority on public-sector labor relations, helped draft and implement labor statutes in 13 states. He has negotiated collective bargaining agreements on behalf of NEA affiliates in various jurisdictions. "I don't think there was any negotiation that I was involved in from beginning to end that ultimately ended up in a strike," he said.
Chanin currently serves as president of the National Organization of Lawyers for Education Associations, and as an executive and board member of the National Resource Center for Consumers of Legal Services.
Father, Grandfather, and Emerging Artist
Chanin and his wife of over 50 years, Rhoda, have three children, Jeffrey, Stacy, and Lisa, and five grandchildren. In retirement, Chanin hopes to return to his childhood love of art.
Truth be known, I never really thought I would ever be standing in front of this group talking about Bob’s retirement. The thought is alien to me. Read Michael Simpson's letter
Comments are now closed, but you can read these great tributes below and on our message board.
Bob, listening to you at the RA is the highlight of my time there. The way you rattle off the information and laws about any subject broached is just amazing to me. How much information can one person retain. I/we will miss you dearly. Enjoy your family and time away from the NEA, however; if you would like to return, you will always be welcomed at the NEA. Thanks for all you did for us all.
07/08/09 - Julieta Lara
Mr. Chanin, You are the Soul & Heart of the NEA. We are what we are because of your guidance. Through my past 12+ RAs I have always looked forward to your input. I have always trusted your judgement. Thank you for the memories. A special thank you to your family for sharing you with us all these years. May you be blessed with much happiness throughout your new phase in life. You will always be remembered and missed.
07/06/09 - Chuck Bolden
While you were in your post as chief legal counsel NEA was in excellent hands. You helped me help school employees through all of the teachers strikes I had to manage and all of the collective bargaining representation elections I had to coordinate over my 29 years as an NEA field Rep. Your advice, counsel, expertise and guidance shall never be forgotten. Remember the infamous St. Louis strike? Your advice at 3 am in the morning kept us out of jail.
As you join me in retirement from NEA, I wish you the best.
07/06/09 - Georgia Smee
Thank you for your dedication to our students and public education. The RA will not be the same without you.
07/06/09 - Frances Steenbergen
I have been coming to RA's since 1979. I came for the fun, the debate, the experience and to hear Bob speak to a parliamenary inquiry. Bob was instrumental in helping our state with urban issues during my presidency. I will miss you Bob.
07/06/09 - Lynnette Teller
As a delegate for only 2 years,I am proud to have had Bob represent us for the last 40 plus years. I am a strong UNION member and will take your message with me from this RA 2009. I commit to be UNION proud in honor of you!
Thanks Bob!
07/06/09 - Donna Morey
Thank you on behalf of the children and educational employees of Arkansas
07/06/09 - Steve Wollmer
Bob -- in the three short years I worked in NEA Media Relations as the resident "voucher expert," my favorite memories were of the times I was able to see you and discuss the legal complexities of vouchers in the context of public discourse. I learned so much, and found the exchanges stimulating and always thought-provoking. You taught me more than you will ever know. I was present for your speech to the RA today, and like so much of what you've done over the past 40 years, it was indelible and laser-like in its impact. Those "right wing bastards" are probably celebrating today, knowing they won't have you on the other side for much longer, but they don't realize you helped hone a lot of people like myself to carry on the fight with the same spirit. Have a wonderful retirement.
07/06/09 - Sandi Taub
Thank you Bob for many years of hard work and dedication to the NEA and our causes! All the best in retirement!
Sandi Taub New Jersey
07/06/09 - Hannah Sitzman
Thank you for your service to, mentoring of, and guiding for our Association. We will be indebted for you for as long as the NEA is in existance...so effectively a very long time, I hope. As I am just beginning my work as a teacher member, I will take forward your dedication to fighting for the rights of our students and my fellow colleagues. Thank you for being there to clarify and explain at the mike; you will truly be missed at our RAs and in our organization. I will wear my Bob Chanin Caucus shirt proudly, and look forward to explaining its purpose to the many people I will encounter. Giving us the opportunity to educate the public on the goals of the NEA is yet another gift to us. From the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU!
07/06/09 - Ruth Alota, California
Dear Mr. Chanin,
This is my 8th RA and I just want to express my most deepest appreciation and gratitude for the very significant contribution of yourself to NEA. You are a warrior in the noblest sense of the word and may you continue to your future life with our heartfelt thanks and wonderful memories. We love you and will miss you!
07/06/09 - Carissa Weintraub
You are an inspiration! This is my 2nd RA and I was so sad to hear that you were retiring (for my own selfish reasons). I was looking forward to hearing your opinions, interpretations, clarifications of NEA policy and federal laws, for years to come. I've even contemplated becoming a labor law lawyer because of you! Thank you and I look forward to reading your story.
07/06/09 - Penny Kotterman, AZ
Bob- I am sorry I cannot be there to share in the celebration of your amazing career and contributions to our Association. I have countless memories, but none better than the work we did together on the GLBT Task Force. You helped make what seemed an impossible task possible, and that is the hallmark of much of your work with the NEA. You are a remarkable man, and I am so blessed to have had the chance to work with you. All the best, PK
07/06/09 - Eric Weiss (VT)
After so many years of listening to your expert and concise opinions I can't believe that when I return next year, you won't be there. Thanks you so much for all of your work and the history you have somehow kept in your head. I wish you all the best and many years of enjoyable retirement.
07/06/09 - Sandra Fischer
Bob, in all of the other choices that you have had in your career, thanks for choosing to stand with education and teachers. As the students would say, "You rock!"
07/06/09 - Heather L Griffin
Bob, a huge THANK YOU for all that you've done for our members and public education. I'll sure miss your cogent explanations at RA. All the best in retirement!
07/06/09 - Nancy Olson
Dear Bob,
Although I live in Oregon, I have always felt safe knowing that if things got rough, I could always count on you to be there for the members. I will miss your concise, to the point answers to questions and also your great smile, even though you try hard to keep a straight face! Best of luck to you in our retirement and thanks for being there for all of us for so meny years. Nancy Olson
07/06/09 - Aileen Cleary
Dear Bob,
I have been to many NEA-RAs and I always look forward to listening to you and your perspective.
You have served NEA members so well, however, I congratulate you on your retirement - enjoy!!
07/06/09 - Cindy Williams--Kansas
As a nine-time delegate to the NEA Representative Assembly, I have appreciated your concise, informative responses to all delelgates' inquiries, dumb ones and all! I will miss your presence at next years' RA. Best wishes in your retirement.
07/06/09 - Bernadette Laughlin
Thank you for your service. I am a "first-time" delegate, but I have heard great things about you from my fellow delegates. I recently passed the Ohio Bar, but I consider myself a teacher first. I plan to work in the area of special education law. You are very inspiring. Best wishes in retirement.
07/06/09 - Bob Maher
HHi Bob,
Thanks for your years of dedicated service to NEA.You have helped make the RA an enjoyable memorable experience with your clear insightful explanations of confusing legal issues.Enjoy your well-deserved retirement.
07/06/09 - Dorothy Moser
Thank you for the fine job you have done for us.
I have been a delagate since 1968.
07/06/09 - DR. Sandy Keaton
Mazel Tov, Bob!!!! What an amazing career and fantastic work that you ahve done for all members of NEA. May you have a marvelous retirement for many many years...Best Wishes!!!
07/06/09 - Gordon Glenn
Bob, THanks for your keen insights and sometimes witty delivery of them. It has been a pleasure to hear your legal opinions!
07/05/09 - Sarah Holmes, Georgia
Bob, Thank you for your devotion to public education!I have attended several NEA RA's and have always looked forward to hearing your comments. Your advice was always very clear and professional. We will miss you very much. Enjoy your time with your family; however, I do hope you come back to visit with us.
07/05/09 - Linda Wilson from Kentucky
I have been to ten RA's. We will miss your insight. Thank you for your professionalism. Enjoy your retirement.
07/05/09 - Kay Krause - WI
The NEA family will miss your words of wisdom. We will miss your legal explanations making the most difficult subject easier to understand. May you find retirement to your liking especially enjoying those grandchildren.
07/05/09 - Antoinette Smith - Georgia
Thank you for your devotion to public education and civil rights. The WORLD is a better place because of you and your work. Peace and love to you and your family
07/05/09 - Amy Harrison North Carolina
Thank you so much for clarifying questions and issues so clearly over the years! I have been to 4 RAs and will miss your presence in the future. Good luck and enjoy your retirement!!!
07/05/09 - Jeff Carpenter
Bob,
All the best wishes for you in your retirement. I have had the fortunate experience of being here for three RA's have looked forward to you sharing the general counsel. I always look forward to your style and delivery on NEA's position. I really love your hair!
Jeff Carpenter
Wisconsin Delegation
07/05/09 - Mary Modder, WI
It is always interesting to explain to the folks back home the significance of the "Bob Chanin Caucus" T-shirt. They think I'm nuts! I tell them it is something they have to see for themselves, but now they will never be able to come to an RA and see you. :(
07/05/09 - Erika Schmidt-Oklahoma
Bob,
Make sure that you thoroughly enjoy spending time with your children and grandchildren. Travel lots and enjoy your retirement!!!
07/05/09 - Mary Michiels
Dear Bob,
Whenever you are asked to clarify an issue, you do so in such a way that even the first time RA goers can appreciate and understand the issue and NEA's stance.
Thank you for all you have done for the NEA.
07/05/09 - Colleen Briner-Schmidt
What a priviledge it has been to work with an organization under your guidance. Your brilliance, guidance, and leadership have led us forward through difficult times. Thank you so much.
07/05/09 - Dana Convery
Bob,
Thank you for all your years of service to the NEA. You have been a wonderful advocate for education, and I am proud to have had the priviledge to have seen you in action at three RAs. You'll be fondly remembered by the NEA! Happy Retirement!
07/05/09 - Callie Marksbary Senior Director from Indiana
Bob: You have enlightened me, taught me, challenged me, and made me laugh each and every time we have met. We all owe you such a debt of gratitude!!!! We will miss you and hope that you enjoy your retirement.
07/05/09 - Beverly Doughty
Bob, I have been in awe of you intelligence with the legal matters that come before the assembly. You will be greatly missed. Best wishes to you!!
07/05/09 - Michigan
We have enjoyed your efficiency on the floor! You will be missed! Thank you!!
07/05/09 - Erin Andreasen Kole
My first RA was in 2002. I don't think you can be replaced. You are an inspiration. Thank you for living a life that has benefited millions of Americans.
07/05/09 - Rebecca Levison
Thaks for all your advice over the years and your service to Public Education.
07/05/09 - Mary Johnson
Thanks, Bob!
I will certainly miss your wise, on-point comments at the RA--and they were also always presented in a way that was so clear and understandable. We will all miss you greatly.
Thank you for all your wonderful years of service. I am so happy to have obtained my own "Show Us Your Amicus Briefs" t-shirt yesterday! Thank you again--Mary Johnson, Michigan
07/05/09 - Darlene Kelchak
Dear Bob,
You will missed after all of these years. I too am retiring this year but hope to be back in the future as a retired teacher.
07/05/09 - Bonita Fillmore
Thank you for all your years of service to the members of NEA. It has been greatly appreciated. You will be missed. Enjoy your retirement and think of us.
07/05/09 - LaVonne Miller
Dear Bob,
You are one-of-a-kind. I have always been impressed by your intellect and ability to express yourself. We will certainly miss you!
07/05/09 - Shaun Creighton, Arizona
In 2008 I attended my first RA with my mother, who had attended the RA for many, many years. I distinctly remember her telling me about Bob Chanin, the legal counsel for the NEA, who was a "legal rock star" that clarified so many RA items so well. I was a little doubtful that a lawyer could also be a rock star, until I actually made it through the RA. Now I'm just disappointed that I only got to see Bob in action for 2 years.
My mom retired this year, too, and I know how much she's looking forward to spending time with her family and friends. I imagine you are, too, Bob. Godspeed, and enjoy your well-earned retirement!
07/05/09 - Mary George Smith
Thanks for all you have done for NEA. We will miss you and hope you truly enjoy your retirement.
07/05/09 - Vince J. Rosato
Bob,
I have enjoyed your articulate and efficient expertise in matters legal for 4 years with a side of humor that makes you a union friend for life. Thank you!
07/05/09 - Georgia
Thank you for all that you have done to clarify those moments that left most of us puzzled until you spoke.
07/04/09 - Lynn Emerson
I have always enjoyed your erudite comments when you have spoken to the assembly regarding questions that no one knew the answer to. Thank you for your many years of service to America's teachers.
07/04/09 - John L. Meeks, Jr.
Thank you for your dedication to the National Education Association. I appreciate your hard work on behalf of your national organization. Best wishes to you and your family as you embark on the next step in your life's journey.
07/04/09 - Tim Ema
Thanks Bob. I have come to the RA for a number of years now and except when I was deployed overseas, I have not missed an RA when your SANE and just comments alwyas made sense to me. I appreciate all your guidance and i have brought your comments to my folks back in my district and they love your cander and believe in your interpretation of difficult decision.
07/04/09 - Donna Rudroff- HNEA
Mr. Chanin- LIstening to you explain the legal aspects of all that effects NEA has been an empowering experience. You are always direct and to the point, yet fully explain the ramifications of each point. It will not be the same without you! Good luck and many thanks!
07/04/09 - Divina Pasion
Hi Bob, On behalf of the Garden Grove Education Association, Garden Grove, CA, We would like to thank you for your years of excellent service in helping all educators. P.S. I just love the short waves in your hair! My grandpa had the same type of beautiful hair! = )
07/04/09 - Marilyn Feranec
Dear Bob
On behalf of the Fairfield Education Association in Fairfield, Connecticut, we thank you for your dedication and extremely hard work for the NEA. I've never enjoyed the RAs more; we'll all miss you.
07/04/09 - Sara Lee Pierre - Illinois
Bob,
Thank you so much for all you have done for me. When I started coming to the NEA RA's back in Kansas City and sat and listen to you explain one of your famous Amicus Briefs, I knew then that you was someone I wanted to have on my team. You have always made me feel as if you were working just for me. I thank you for that personal touch you have put on your work and made us feel so loved. God Bless you and your family as we now give you back to them full time. You will always be remembered for your professionalism, your knowledge of your work and for me, that wonderful Brooklyn way of speaking. I love you Mr. Chanin.
07/04/09 - Marge Houghland, IL
I have been attending RA's for 31 years. The highlight of the conventions has always been Bob's clarification of some pointthat we are debating. He has always been fantastic! We will miss him very much.
07/04/09 - Sharon Fitch Boudreau
Since my first RA in Los Angeles 1980 I have admired, marveled and wondered at your expertise. Thank you for you years of dedication to NEA and all our members.
Enjoy your retirement and put away your watch.
Sharon Boudreau
NEA Board 1994-2000
California
07/04/09 - Beverly Carlson
We have an attorney named Chanin.
His advice has the power of a cannon
He's always on task.
What more can we ask?
We'll sure miss that cannon named Chanin!
07/04/09 - Dana Bayiates
Mr. Chanin,
This will be the last time I attend an NEA RA because you will no longer be there to entertain us with your dry wit and subterranean charm. But seriously, I have spent the last 6 years at the RA instead of spending the Fourth of July with my children, and they're old enough now to notice ;>
Thank you for being there for NEA's 3.2 million members and their families; you're one of the top 5 smartest men I've ever met in my life and only one of the two attorneys I've met (TEA's Bryan McCarty being the other) whom I sincerely respect because of the area of law which you have chosen to practice. What a difference you have made in our lives and the lives of America's public school children.
I'm wearing my Bob Chanin t-shirt Monday, along with about 8,000 other delegates, but I'm special, so I would like for you to autograph mine. Don't worry, I'll seek you out sometime before the end of the day on Monday :>
Sincerely,
Dana Bayiates
Knox County E.A.
Knoxville, TN 37920
07/04/09 - Karen Yoho - Frederick, MD
Bob Chanin, you are an NEA rock star! We told the first time delegates from our local that it would be their privilege to hear you speak at this RA. All it took was one time and they were star-struck. I don't envy those who will try to follow in your footsteps.
07/04/09 - Val Thurnell
You don't know me from Adam but you have made the RA the BEST for me....I even dared to come up to you the 1st day this year and say so...You are the BEST!!!!!!!
Val Thurnell, Utah
07/04/09 - Jerry Brien
Thanks for all of the terrific work you have done for the association.
07/04/09 - Joyce Johnson
I have been attending the RA for over 15 years. Each year I am more impressed with your knowledge and your ability to help the delegates understand the issues. The NEA -RA will never be the same without you. Thanks for everything.Best wishes on your retirement. Come back and see us.
07/04/09 - Debbie Restivo
Hi Bob, On behalf of the Frontenac Teachers' Association, Frontenac, KS, we would like to thank you for your dedication to the NEA. You are one of a kind, unique, and irreplaceable. Thanks so much for everything!
07/04/09 - Molly Phalen
Thanks to you, Bob, the Rockford Education Association has "one of the most sacrosanct contracts in America" (Magistrate Judge P. Michael Mahoney. All Rockford teachers owe you a tremendous debt of gratitude for you brilliant argument to the 7th Cirucit Court of Appeals which resulted in the preservation of our contract.
On behalf of the 2000 REA members, I wish you the best as you begin this new stage of your life.
Molly Phalen
President
07/04/09 - Gene Craig
Bob, I thank you for your continued dedicated and expert legal advise you have provided over the years of your service with the NEA. It will difficult to find someone to follow in your footsteps. Congratulations on your retirement and, as a retiree, I can definitely recommend retirement!
07/04/09 - Anne Loeffler
Bob, Thank you for your professional guidance of this association. Thank you for being our (my) advocate on so many issues. You have been a gift to us all. Thanks
07/04/09 - Chuck Riegler
Bob, When I was on the NEA Board, your reports were always the highlight of the meeting. Your expertise, candor, and dry sense of
humor will be greatly missed. May you enjoy a long healthful and fulfilling retirement.
Chuck Riegler former Board member from Ohio
07/04/09 - Nancy Holland
Bob, Thanks for your hard work of behalf of teachers and your terse comments at the NEA RA. THe RA won't be the same without you. I hope your successor has at least half of your brilliance.
07/04/09 - Amy DeGroot - Sioux City, Iowa
Bob,
Thank you for all of your years of dedication to NEA. I greatly respect the knowledge and expertice that you have brought to the floor at the RA's since I began attending in Atlanta in 1997.
Best of luck in your retirement!
Amy DeGroot-Hammer, Sioux City, Iows
07/04/09 - Bonnie Lartz, IL
Bob, Thank you for all of your years of dedication to NEA. I greatly respect the knowledge and expertice that you have brought to the floor at the RA's. Best of luck in your retirement. Sincerely, Bonnie Lartz, Moline, IL
07/04/09 - William Vega
You are such an inspiration! Your progressive work with education has left a lasting impression on the nation! you have shown that the power of one can make a great impact to encourage positive change.
07/04/09 - Sandra Walker, Kansas
Thank you for your dedication and passion throughout the years for teachers and kids. You will be missed...Enjoy your next journey and be fulfilled! You will always be appreciated.
07/04/09 - Nonita Stiggers
I have been attending NEA/RA's for over 20 years and have been continually impressed with your knowledge, wisdom, and the manner in which you articulate your responses so that we all understand what is at stake. Thank you for your dedication and commitment to the NEA,teachers, ESP's, but especially to the children. You will be missed.
07/04/09 - Patty Jurczak (IL)
Bob,
This is my 4th RA (I was not elected to the RA in Philadelphia) and at each RA I looked forward more and more to the opportunities to hear you clarify, advise or just wave to the sea of all of us. This organization will be at a huge loss when you retire and I for one will greatly miss your reassuring presence at my future RA's. Thank you for all of your dedication to the NEA and all of its causes. For a lawyer, you're OK. P.S. I am a huge, vocal supporter of you in my state caucus meetings!!!! With much admiration, Patty
07/04/09 - Diane
You have made my RAs so much more enjoyable....Thank you for cutting to the chase to get to the message.
07/04/09 - Elizabeth Ahlgren
Bob,
I can't imagine what the RA will be like with someone else serving as counsel, or the NEA board meetings for that matter. You definitely have a fan club who waits for you to speak at a mike. We appreciate all you do and I only hope your career with NEA has been as much fun for you. Have a long and happy retirement! xoxo
07/04/09 - Dan Parsons
Bob, this is my fourth RA and I can't believe you won't be a part of it any more. I have always been impressed, not only with the depth of your knowledge, but with your eloquence and sense of humor as well. You will be sorely missed. Thanks a million for your service. Dan Parsons, President, East Whittier EA (California), RA Delegate 2004, 2006, 2007, and 2009
07/03/09 - Alida Graham
Congratulations, Bob! You have always "spiced up" the NEA RA - which was greatly appreciated by all! You will be missed. I enjoyed working with you on the UniServ Review Committee - wasn't that fun! I'm sorry that I am not at this RA to congratulate you in person. Best Wishes, Alida
07/03/09 - Diane B. Gonzalez
Dear Bob,
Even though you don't know me personally your work through the NEA has impacted my life. I want to thank you for all of your years of dedication and persistence on behalf of the GLBT community, especially in those early years when others were not willing to go out on a limb for such a simple social justice issue. JFK once said " One person can make a difference and everyone should try". Thank you for trying. You went above and beyond. I wish you a happy and healthy retiremant and plenty of time to relax at the beach.
With kindest regards,
Diane (new chair of the SOGI committee)
07/03/09 - Josie Cannella
Bob, we all appreciate all the thoughtful and intelligent assistance you have generously given to us in so many ways. Your years of hard work and dedication should rightfully be followed by as many years of relaxation and goofing off. Please enjoy them to the fullest.
Sincerely,
Josie Cannella, CT
07/03/09 - Maureen Marek
Thank you for all of your hard work and dedication to the cause. You are greatly respected and we will miss your expertise.
07/03/09 - Peggy Lear Bowen
Dear Bob,
YOU ARE AWESOME!!!!
I treasure our friendship!
Over the years we have worked on many issues that made life better for one and all, ie. injured workers paid during non-contract hours when the disability crossed into non-contract time,(summer,etc.).No District Owned any NEA Member!
I will miss knowing that you will be there to answer some delicate, job-on-the-line question.
Your courage gave me strength when others fell by the way-side. You understood the need to support the lone voices in the wilderness that saw things the way it should be before an issue was popular or understood by others.
You always seemed to do the right thing because it was the right thing to do.
Please visit us often, my wise and caring one. I hope you have taught others to have your insight and ability to listen so that your passion will always be present.
May your days be filled with
LOVE, LUCK, LAUGHTER,
Peggy Lear Bowen
Reno, Nevada
07/03/09 - Lori
Just a quick note to say THANK YOU for all you have done to help NEA, Public School and OUR CHILDREN! You ROCK!
07/03/09 - Jill Wright
Bob, You will be missed, but we certainly wish you a long and happy retirement. Share your art so we can auction it for the Fund! As a delegate from Indiana I am especially grateful for the assistance and council you have given ISTA. Blessings.
07/03/09 - Faith O. Mowoe, CA (OH!)
Dear Mr. Chanin:
You've been at all of the RAs that I have attended(5)to date and I've admired the manner in which you've addressed legal points of contention whenever they arose during those meetings. I've always known that you're important to us as educators but I only now read JUST how much you've done for public education in this country and the world. Thank you very much indeed.
Enjoy retirement --- more time with your family and your favorite hobby, which I also just read about.
Take care, and God bless.
Faith
P.S. Thanks, Mrs. Chanin, for sharing your husband (soulmate!)with us alllllllll these years. You and my mother share a lovely name, Rhoda.
07/03/09 - Carmen M. Stokes
Thanks Bob for all the hard work you have done on behalf of undocumented students. MY you receive the blessing of all the Gods from all directions for your great and humble heart. Thanks
07/03/09 - Kevin Kuhn
Thanks, Bob! I recently realized what a hero you are to me. As a gay man and public school teacher, you helped pave the way for me to be "out" comfortably in my current job. You have made a difference in my life and I am grateful!
Kevin Kuhn, Aurora, IL
07/03/09 - Evelyn Wall--Wyoming
I have always appreciated yor words of wisdom and explainations on various by-laws, rules, etc at D.A.
Thank you for all you have done and enjoy your retirement!!
07/03/09 - Arbernice Rouse
Bob, thank you so very much for all that you have done for our illustraous organization. Your knowledge and uncanny sense of humor will greatly missed. I pray that you have a great retirement. And I hope that the person will be a great as you are.
07/03/09 - Janis Gilchrist
Thank you for your dedication in making sure that our professional organization stays professional. Could you stick around and mentor the next person in line for your job. Enjoy your retirement.
07/03/09 - Diana Reed
Bob, the NEA RA will not be the same without your presence. Your knowledge, expertise, and sense of humor will be greatly missed. As a member of ISTA, I can not thank you enough for your support of our organization while we go through these trying times. Because of you and others at NEA, ISTA will be able to continue. Best wishes and enjoy your retirement.
07/03/09 - Kim Vivolo
Bob,
It is with deep regret I say goodbye and good luck to a man who has not only represented the NEA with integrity and poise but who also has shown diplomacy and restraint when needed.
I wish you the best on your life's journey!
Kim Vivolo- Ohio
07/03/09 - Debbie Glenn
Bob,
I have never been to an RA without you being on the stage (1992). It just won't be the same! Your wit and dry humor (as well as your eloquence and ability to clearly explain complicated legal matters) will be sorely missed by those of down on the floor. Congratulations on an outstanding career and you are wished all the best in your retirement.
Sincerely,
Debbie Glenn
Upland Teachers Association
Upland, California
P.S. My husband John Glenn (also UTA) says that he lost $300 in Orlanda because your watch was 2 minutes slow. You might want to have that checked out.
07/03/09 - K.Marquardt
Bob,
Thanks for your patience and energy! You will be missed.
K.
07/03/09 - Herb and Edie
Retirement is a good thing. If your in Maine Bayside Northport stop in and say hi. Not sure yet if the hockey pokey is what it is all about, but Maine in the summer come close. Enjoy your new life. This machine is giving me so much trouble I see why you still use the yellow pads.
07/03/09 - Barb Grabow
You will be greatly missed...a Wisconsin Delegate.
07/03/09 - Lisa Eaton
Thank you Mr. Chanin for your guidance and support throughout many NEA RAs! Your sense of humor and professionalism is awesome and will be missed! Good luck in your retirement!
07/03/09 - Susan Banning
Dear Mr. Chanin,
Thank you so much for your guidance and knowledge in helping the state of Colorado work toward the hoped for defeat of Amendment 54 and the other anti-union, anti- working people amendments during the 2008 vote. Thank you so very much for your guidance!
Sincerely,
Susan Banning
07/03/09 - Susie Garrison
You have made my years as an NEA delegate very memorable. Your ability to explain things has helped me understand many issues and when you let some humor sneak in, it was especially wonderful. Thank you for your years of service. You will most definately be missed.
07/03/09 - Bonita Fillmore
Thank you so much for your years of service to the teachers of this nation. You have helped make us strong. You have personally inspired me with your dedication to our group.
07/03/09 - Shirley Ross
Bob, you have been the ultimate champion of children, educators, and public education in this country. You must realize the tremendous admiration, respect, and love we have for you. I especially want to thank you for standing by Indiana in our current time of serious and unparalleled need. Indiana we will be forever grateful to you and everyone at NEA. No one deserves the Friend of Education Award more than you, Mr. Chanin. Best wishes for a wonderful retirement.
1997-2000 NEA Board Member from Indiana
07/02/09 - Jim Mordecai
I have been honored to be elected by members of the OEA to seven R.A.s and been thankful that I could hear Bob present his intelligent examination of a variety of issues over the years from the hearings on Bylaws and Constitution and from the stage of the R.A. floor. It has been my privilege to witness a talented professional doing his job in a praiseworthy fashion. Thank you for sharing your talent with an audience of thousands.
07/02/09 - Norma Heeter
For 25 years I was an elected delegate to NEA. For me, you were one of the great higlights. I probably should not say your accent grabbed my attention first but it did and your legal/NEA knowledge at a moment's notice was
incredible. I always felt you were the person in whom we placed our trust. Thank you, thank you, thank you. I am now retired and am very happy for you. You are going to love it.
07/02/09 - Janet Jackson
Bob,
Thank your for your dedication, energy and knowledge that you used to improve education for all of America's children. You will be missed.
07/02/09 - Carol Krogmann
Thank you so very much for all you have done for the children of America, public schools and NEA members. We value your knowledge, expertise,sense of humor and friendship. Enjoy your well-deserved retirement. You will be greatly missed.
07/02/09 - Carol Hanson SDEA
Oh sure, you're georgous. And sure, you're intelligent beyond belief. And sure, you've put your dedicated heart & soul in to serving public education for so many years. But just think...that all pales to the joy & laughter you given thousands of people every year of your career! THANKS SO MUCH FOR THE SMILES, the ones you gave us all when you spoke, and the ones we'll have as we remember you!
xoxox
07/02/09 - Judy Briganti
Bob,
Your professionalism, wit and caring support for our profession will be greatly missed. I can not imagine coming to an RA without hearing your voice and comments.
You will be missed but have left a lasting positive impression with countless members--especially me.
Respectfully,
Judy Briganti, ISTA Immediate Past President
07/02/09 - Bonnie Bowen
Thank you for everything you have done for children and teachers. Live well, love greatly, and laugh deeply.
07/02/09 - Doreen McGlade
Bob, your contributions to public education may not be evident to the general public, but NEA members across the country truly do appreciate your contributions in support of every child's basic right to a GREAT public education. We also appreciate your expertise and support on behalf of education professionals, including all of your excellent advice to the delegates of the NEA RA. You will be missed, but I wish you the joys of retirement. (Please drop by RA any time!!!)
07/02/09 - Radojka Joyce Skocic
Bob Chanin-you are the greatest. I love your accent and your dry sense of humor. I love how you make the legal issues understandable to all, and your knowledge of the law. I am in the Bob Chanin fan club and wear my t-shirt proudly. We will miss you terribly, but we are happy for you. Good luck and Best wishes. You have made my years at the NEA-RA more enjoyable. I too will retire soon, but the fight for public education and the memories will live on.
07/02/09 - Barbara Stek
I have been a delegate to RA almost every year since 1982. I cannot imagine one without your presence. I join with all the others in thunderous applause when you finally have the opportunity to enlighten us on some important issue. Your expertise is amazing. You deserve a wonderful retirement, but please know that you were be greatly missed. Take care!!
07/02/09 - Theresa P. Tracy
I will miss your expertise at the RA. I have always been amazed at your astute ability to have "the" answer to whatever was thrown out there. Best wishes in your retirement.
07/02/09 - peggie vaughan
i could fill joy and confidence when you came to the podium.
Thank you Thank you and may you retire knowing "i did what I was supposed to do".
07/01/09 - Joanne Sisler
Bob,
Thank you for your years of dedicated service to the future of this country. Children may never know your name, but you will not be forgotten.
Sincerely,
J. Sisler
07/01/09 - Nancy Hill
Thank you for your years of sevice to education and the NEA! Your integrity and wisdom are appreciated. Your sense of humor as you deliver your opinions will be will be missed at future RAs.
07/01/09 - Connie Morris
Enjoy your new life! We are going to miss you.
07/01/09 - Phyzell Roland
Thanks for all the hard work. We will miss you.
07/01/09 - NEA Staffer
Bob we will miss you.
07/01/09 - An NEA Supporter
Bob is great. Does he have to go?
06/29/09 - Georann Whitman
What would the NEA RA be without at least one memorable appearance at the podium from my hero, Bob Chanin?? Every time you speak, I say a silent prayer of thanksgiving that we have you on our team!!! Thank you for your years of service and for "having our back!" Your wisdom, integrity and dedication to education are greatly appreciated! Again - you are my hero, Bob Chanin. Thank you so much from all of us in KNEA!
