Chandra Smith
Richmond
Summary
Dynamic UniServ Director skilled in enhancing member engagement and advocacy. Proven success in developing strategic initiatives and fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders.
Experienced labor relations professional with a strong focus on active listening and relationship building. Successfully led training programs that promoted professional development and addressed member concerns, contributing to improved organizational objectives.
Results-oriented UniServ Director with expertise in analyzing educational policies and proposing actionable recommendations. Committed to fostering member engagement and navigating complex labor disputes to protect union interests.
Experienced with labor relations and advocacy, focusing on resolving conflicts and improving workplace environments. Uses advanced negotiation and organizational skills to support and represent union members effectively. Strong understanding of labor laws and union-management dynamics, ensuring fair and equitable outcomes.
Knowledgeable [Desired Position] with strong background in labor relations and advocacy. Successfully managed and resolved complex disputes, and fostered collaborative environments. Demonstrated negotiation and organizational skills to support union members and drive positive outcomes.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
UniServ Director
Virginia Education Association
8001 Franklin Farms Drive
11.2017 - Current
- Developed and implemented strategic initiatives to enhance member engagement and advocacy efforts.
- Facilitated training programs for staff and members to promote professional development and leadership skills.
- Analyzed educational policies and proposed actionable recommendations to improve statewide educational standards.
- Collaborated with diverse stakeholders to address member concerns and drive organizational objectives.
- Evaluated program effectiveness, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and member needs.
- Led outreach efforts to strengthen partnerships with local education agencies and community organizations.
- Worked closely with legal counsel to navigate complex labor disputes, protecting the interests of union members.
- Organized regular meetings with members to foster open dialogue and gather valuable feedback on desired improvements.
- Conducted thorough investigations into allegations of misconduct or unfair treatment, ensuring objective resolutions were reached.
- Coordinated professional development opportunities for members, leading to enhanced skills and career growth.
- Managed caseloads effectively, providing timely assistance to members facing employment-related challenges.
- Maintained accurate records of member information while adhering to strict confidentiality guidelines.
- Provided guidance to newly hired educators during orientation sessions, establishing a supportive network from day one.
- Monitored legislative developments impacting education professionals, staying informed on relevant policies and initiatives.
- Assisted union leaders in developing and implementing strategic plans for organizational growth and long-term success.
- Developed strong relationships with local union leaders to better support their needs and goals.
- Collaborated with faculty, staff and students to identify and address institutional challenges.
- Coordinated and supervised academic advising activities.
Special Education Teacher
Richmond City Public Schools
John Marshall High School
11.2012 - 11.2017
- Developed and implemented individualized education plans (IEPs) tailored to student needs.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to enhance support services for students with disabilities.
- Utilized assistive technology tools to facilitate learning and engagement among students.
- Conducted assessments to monitor student progress and adjust instructional strategies accordingly.
- Designed behavior intervention plans that improved student outcomes and reduced disciplinary incidents.
- Developed IEPs tailored to individual student needs, ensuring their academic success and personal growth.
- Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
- Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
- Improved student behavior management by implementing consistent routines, clear expectations, and positive reinforcement strategies.
- Evaluated student progress regularly using various assessment methods, ensuring accurate measurement of skill development and areas requiring additional support.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities focused on evidence-based practices in special education teaching methodologies.
- Taught students across multiple classifications and degrees of special needs.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive support for students with special needs.
- Instructed students with physical and cognitive disabilities.
- Conducted assessments to identify students' strengths and areas for improvement, informing instructional strategies.
Financial Aid Counselor
Virginia Union University
1500 Lombardy Street
08.2008 - 09.2012
- Advised students on financial aid options and eligibility requirements.
- Processed and reviewed financial aid applications for accuracy and compliance.
- Educated students and families about federal, state, and institutional aid programs.
- Developed workshops to enhance financial literacy among prospective students.
- Collaborated with academic departments to streamline the financial aid process.
- Provided financial aid counseling to enrolled and prospective students.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge on relevant laws, regulations, and policies surrounding higher education finance in order to provide accurate advice to students.
- Facilitated workshops aimed at educating students about available financial aid options, increasing awareness of potential resources.
Education
No Degree - Special Education
Virginia Union University
1500 Lombardy StreetHigh School Diploma -
John F, Kennedy
Richmond, VA06-1982
Master of Business Administration - Master Education
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA12-2005
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA06-2002
Skills
- Labor relations
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Problem-solving
- Problem-solving abilities
- Team collaboration
- Active listening
- Relationship building
Timeline
UniServ Director
Virginia Education Association
11.2017 - Current
Special Education Teacher
Richmond City Public Schools
11.2012 - 11.2017
Financial Aid Counselor
Virginia Union University
08.2008 - 09.2012
No Degree - Special Education
Virginia Union University
High School Diploma -
John F, Kennedy
Master of Business Administration - Master Education
Virginia Commonwealth University
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Virginia Commonwealth University