Regarding the recent death of Tom Pappas, who served the UFT for 50 years as a member, borough rep, UFT secretary and Retired Teachers Chapter leader:

"Tom was a great teacher and so many of us were his students. He taught us what was important and what was noise. He was tough but also caring and smart. Those of us who worked with him have a storehouse of incredible memories. Often when we get together, we end up sharing Tom stories. Thank you, Tom. You are sorely missed. We were lucky to be guided by your wisdom and plain decency."

Ken Lubetsky, retired
via Instagram

"Over the years as a chapter leader, district representative and political director, I always appreciated Tom’s outstanding and outspoken guidance. He was a mentor to so many of us and he always listened and shared his perspective. He will be remembered and never forgotten for all of his guidance."

Marvin Reiskin, retired
via Facebook