Retired IAFF Officer Stays Dedicated to Labor at NLC

May 7, 2009 – After former Anne Arundel County, MD Local 1563 President Keith Wright retired because of a job-related injury, he knew he wanted to continue working within the labor movement. To achieve his goal, Wright went back to college with a little help from scholarships available through Union Plus.

In 2002, Wright injured his upper back on the job. After three years of light duty, returning to regular duty seemed unlikely, and he retired on disability. After spending a few months catching up on household projects, he was ready to go back to school.

“I tried community college until a fellow IAFF member encouraged me to check into the National Labor College,” says Wright. “After looking into its labor education degree, I felt confident that this was the direction I’d like to go.”

Union Plus awarded Wright a scholarship for his first year that he use to attend any institution of higher learning. In 2009, he received a scholarship specific to the labor college.

The Union Plus NLC Scholarship has provided more than $172,000 since its inception in 2002. The NLC is the nation’s only accredited college exclusively dedicated to the education of union members, leaders and staff.

“I have been very grateful to Union Plus for their assistance,” says Wright. “Having a family adds a whole new dynamic to obtaining higher education. Not only am I financially responsible for my education, but also my two sons’ education.”

Union members – including IAFF members – have access to scholarships and other benefits through Union Plus, from car rentals to legal services. Click here for a full list.