Transition time at the state AFL-CIO

North Carolina State AFL-CIO President James Andrews was diagnosed with low-level, early stage prostate cancer in January of this year. We are pleased to report that he is cancer-free and has returned to his regular routine of walking 6 miles a day.

“This health issue made clear that my work for this great organization for more than 40 years can change without warning,” said James. “I am one of the lucky ones because my union job with health insurance provided the yearly health screening which led to early detection of my cancer.”

Because of this health issue, as well as a need to cut expenses and to make better use of current finances, President Andrews proposed a reduction in his workload from June 15, 2015 through the September 2017 convention. The North Carolina State AFL-CIO Executive Board approved his proposal on June 12, 2015.

“By reducing the outlay for payroll as I reduce my workload, I can continue to make a major contribution to this organization,” said James. “My reduced workload will allow me to spend more time with my family and provide an opportunity to do some of the fun stuff I could never find time to do”.

President Andrews will continue to fulfill the requirements and duties of President as outlined in the North Carolina State AFL-CIO Constitution. However, he will not be responsible for the day-to-day supervision of operations and staff. The Secretary-Treasurer will be responsible for such supervision.

“With the leadership skills of our Secretary-Treasurer, MaryBe McMillan, and with the commitment of the highly-skilled and dedicated staff we have employed at the state federation, now is the ideal time to make this transition,” said James.

Given the President’s reduced workload and our effort to reduce our response time, we ask that all matters related to the North Carolina State AFL-CIO be directed to Secretary-Treasurer MaryBe McMillan or state fed staff.

Pictured: James Andrews smiles at 2015 Labor Legislative Conference attendees in Raleigh.