In spring of 2024, Anna Tresvalles was pregnant and working hard on her Urban Studies courses. This spring, she crossed the stage to recived her bachelor’s degree with baby Tala at her side. Motherhood, it turns out, is leading Anna’s urban policy interests in new directions. She has discovered the community-building effect of being an outgoing new mom in Astoria, finding a lot of support from other young parents — and considering the organizing possibilities in her current setting. Read more.
Congratulations to the 2025 recipients of CUNY SLU’ Joseph S. Murphy Scholarship for Diversity in Labor and the 2025 Rising Leader! These students exemplify leadership, equity, and a deep commitment to justice in the workplace and beyond. We invite you to meet this year’s honorees and celebrate their achievements. Read more.
Kaarthika Thakker was organizing her coworkers before she even knew what a union was. Now she’s adding a master’s degree in Labor Studies to her extensive organizing experience. Becoming a labor lawyer is her next goal. Of her time at SLU, Kaarthika said: “It just really means something to go here, I think. And it really changes who you are as a person.” Read more.
Growing up in Utah, Joseph Newswander was a theater kid. Though he never acted in “Newsies,” he recommends the 1992 film as an inspiring labor story based on the actual NYC Newsboys’ Strike of 1899. After high school, he participated in the AmeriCorps City Year program in New York and stayed here for Union Semester at SLU and a B.A. in Labor Studies. In addition to acing his classes, he works at 1199SEIU. Read more
CUNY SLU has developed programs in collaboration with unions, municipal agencies, and community groups. Many students take advantage of employer, union, and other benefits to cover the cost of their tuition. With Bachelor’s, Master’s, and certificate programs in labor studies and urban studies, we prepare students for impactful careers. Learn more.
Apply now and join CUNY School of Labor Studies and Urban Studies community of renowned scholars and experts in
movement-building and policy-making. Secure your spot for the upcoming semester. Learn more about our program and the opportunities that await you.