Press Releases
DPE has media staff in Washington, D.C. to handle inquiries from journalists on issues related to professionals in unions. To schedule an interview with a member of the DPE staff, contact Katie Barrows at kbarrows@dpeaflcio.org or call 202-638-0320 ext. 15 or 202-549-5991.
DPE Celebrates Historic Election of Roxanne Brown to Lead United Steelworkers
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Katie Barrows
Communications Director
P: 202-549-5991
kbarrows@dpeaflcio.org
WASHINGTON, October 24, 2025 - Department for Professional Employees, AFL-CIO (DPE) President Jennifer Dorning released the following statement in response to the United Steelworkers’ (USW) announcement that Roxanne Brown will become the next International President on March 1, 2026:
“I am thrilled to congratulate Roxanne Brown on her election as the next International President of the United Steelworkers (USW). I have had the privilege of working with Roxanne during her tenure as a DPE General Vice President and have seen firsthand the passion and commitment she brings to advancing the interests of her members and all working people.
Throughout her career, Roxanne has been a tireless advocate for policies that strengthen the labor movement and improve the lives of workers. Her leadership marks an exciting and historic moment for USW, and I look forward to continuing to work with her to grow the number of professionals in unions and to build an even stronger labor movement.
Additionally, I congratulate USW’s newly elected and reelected officers. With this leadership team, USW members have a wealth of experienced leaders that positions their union for continued success.
Finally, I want to extend my appreciation to USW International President David McCall for his service and leadership. His dedication has positioned the USW for future advancements.”
About DPE
The Department for Professional Employees, AFL-CIO (DPE) is a coalition of 24 unions representing over four million professional and technical union members. DPE affiliate unions represent professionals in over 300 occupations in education and healthcare; science, engineering, and technology; legal, business, and management; media, entertainment, and the arts; and public administration.
DPE Remembers Former United Steelworkers International President Leo W. Gerard
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Katie Barrows
Communications Director
P: 202-549-5991
Kbarrows@dpeaflcio.org
WASHINGTON, Sept. 22, 2025—DPE President Jennifer Dorning released the following statement in response to the news of the passing of former United Steelworkers (USW) international president Leo W. Gerard:
“President Gerard was a remarkable leader who committed his life to standing up for the rights of working people. His over 50-year career is defined by his efforts to grow USW as well as the global labor movement. President Gerard was instrumental in ensuring that workers across industries had the power to achieve a fair return on their work. He will be missed.
My thoughts are with President Gerard’s family, friends, and USW siblings during this difficult time. Rest in power, President Gerard.”
About DPE
The Department for Professional Employees, AFL-CIO (DPE) is a coalition of 24 unions representing over four million professional and technical union members. DPE affiliate unions represent professionals in over 300 occupations in education and healthcare; science, engineering, and technology; legal, business, and management; media, entertainment, and the arts; and public administration.