ATU Announces Winners of James La Sala Scholarships
The following students beginning post-secondary education in the 2024-2025 academic year won scholarships in memory of former International President James La Sala, a legend in the ATU, who devoted more than 60 years to the ATU. Under his leadership, the ATU expanded education initiatives, broadened ATU legislative programs, revamped ATU Organizing, and revived the ATU-COPE program. Short bios and excepts from their essays appear below:
Gianna DiPerna, daughter of Jeffrey DiPerna Local 85-Pittsburgh, PA, is attending Seton Hill University to study Pre-law, Finance and Political Science. A member of the National Honor Society and the Business Honor Society, Gianna also volunteers for the Race for Grace and is President of the Norwin High School Orchestra.
“While our world continuously changes and not always for the better, the endless fight from organized labor leaders to keep transit operators safe is a trickle-down effect because the safety of the operator has a direct effect on his or her ability to ensure the safety of the passengers on the bus, many of whom are also workers en route to their jobs, hence offering physical protection and safety to them as well.”
Tedd Hong, son of Thinh Chi Hong Local 1277-Los Angeles, CA, plans on attending USC to study Mechanical Engineering. Through his internship at LA Metro TCAP, Hong is a team leader as well as Captain of his swim team and an award-winning Science Olympiad.
“Unions primarily use two means to gain negotiation leverage: collective bargaining and strikes. By using these methods, union members can guarantee that they are heard and guarantee that their wishes are either met or close to met. These negotiation methods are especially effective since labor laws protect unions and their members from employers targeting or removing the union, therefore equalizing the powers of the workers and employers.”
Richard Johnson, grandchild of Charles H. Hawkins Jr. Local 689-Washington, DC, is attending the University of Pennsylvania to study Finance or Economics. As Vice President of the National Honor Society, Johnson also volunteered with the Boy Scouts of America and Dreaming Together International, an organization to empower disadvantaged people through language in foreign countries.
“For decades, the narrative around organized labor has often focused on the direct advantages it offers union members – higher wages, better benefits, and stronger job security. While these are undeniable benefits, the positive impact of unions extends far beyond their membership rolls, creating a ripple effect that strengthens the entire economy and society.”
Shathviki Krishnaraj, daughter of Subramaniam Krishnaraj Local 113-Toronto, ON, is attending the University of Waterloo to study Electrical Engineering. As Executive Director of Our Future of Change, Krishnaraj helps to unite students against human trafficking. She is also a prolific Carnatic vocalist and violinist and Co-Director of her school’s Music Council.
“Through my work in anti-trafficking activism with OFOC, I know that giving women the power to become financially independent makes them less vulnerable to sexual exploitation. By having the autonomy and agency to make choices, economic independence allows these women to overcome societal stigmas, support themselves, and break the cycle of trafficking.”
Lina Umar, daughter of Shazia Umar Local 846-St. Catharines, ON, is attending University of Toronto to study Physcology. As the Founder and CEO of Innocence North America, Umar has raised thousands of dollars to bring justice and support to wrongfully convicted inmates. She was also the founder and Head Volunteer Event Coordinator for the Muslim Youth Niagara and mentored students in the Niagara Falls Badminton & Tennis Club as well as the School Club.
“Through strikes, protests, and collective action, labour unions fought tooth and nail to secure fundamental rights and protections for workers across the nation. Considering now the countless lives that have been transformed by the advocacy of organized labour. It has only been through their efforts that we now enjoy fair wages, reasonable working hours, and safe working conditions.”
Javonne Wilson, son of Lindsay Wilson Local 1179-New York, NY, is attending Villanova University to study Criminology. As an athlete on the school’s basketball and flag football teams, Wilson established strong leadership and communication skills that helped lead his teams to the playoffs. He has received multiple awards but one of his most fulfilling opportunities has been to volunteer for the Special Olympics.
“Organized labor demonstrates significant influence in promoting the welfare of the community, advocating for social welfare initiatives, enhancing healthcare systems, and safeguarding the rights of workers. Labor unions utilize political power to shape policies that meet broader societal concerns, thereby enhancing the general welfare of the community. This leads to advantages not only for members of the union but also for the broader public.”