International Headquarters – President’s Office

PRESIDENT’S OFFICE

Oversees all administrative and operational activities of the union.

Department Head: Phil Smith, Executive Assistant to the President/Chief of Staff, 703-291-2420

The Organizing Department bolsters the UMWA’s future with an innovative and proactive organizing strategy with an intimate approach. They work to further diversify the union’s membership, bringing it into the next millennia.

Department Head: Kris Mallory, Director of Organizing, 703-291-2428

LEGAL

The Legal Department represents the UMWA and its members in matters relating to collective bargaining, contract enforcement, government regulations, organizing, health and safety, corporate bankruptcy, and other matters requiring legal counsel.

Department Head: Kevin Fagan, General Counsel, 703-291-2463

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

The Government Affairs advocates for the UMWA’s membership in Washington, D.C., and in state capitols throughout the U.S. regarding legislation and regulations that affect UMWA members and their families.

Department Head: Adam Banig, Director of Governmental Affairs, 703-291-2403

JOURNAL

The Journal Department produces the award-winning, bi-monthly publication The United Mine Workers Journal. The UMW Journal’s first issue was printed in January 1890, and it is the longest continually-published union periodical in North American history.

Department Head: Missy Hunt, Editor of the United Mine Workers Journal, 703-291-2402

COMMUNICATIONS

The Communications Department manages the union’s social media outlets as well as the UMWA website. They ensure that our viewership gets the most up-to-date information about union activities. They also produce all in-house videography for the union as well as spread the UMWA’s message to the general public across North America. All media inquiries should be directed to the Communications Department.

Department Head: Erin Bates, Director of Communications, 703-291-2430

CONTRACTS/RESEARCH

Research Department provides industry-related information to decision-makers throughout the union for use in collective bargaining, strategic campaigns, legislative efforts, and legal documentation. It also works with the District Offices on contract enforcement.

Department Head: Jason Haught, Director of Research, 703-291-2415

CIVIL AND HUMAN RIGHTS

The Civil and Human Rights Department works both with other labor unions and affiliates and within the UMWA to promote diversity education and to build bridges between union brothers and sisters, for the protection of our member’s fundamental rights. We fight to defend the mental and physical well-being of our members in their work environments. Everyone, regardless of color, age, gender, or sexuality, has a right to feel comfortable in their workplace.

Department Head: Shanna Peeks, Director of Civil and Human Rights, 703-291-2423

VETERAN AFFAIRS

The Veterans Affairs Department runs the union’s Union Veterans Leadership Council. The Office’s focus is to promote veteran issues, giving our veterans a voice, ensuring their healthcare and quality of life, and advocating for better treatment. The Department strives to be a solid and dependable resource for UMWA veterans and their families.

Lead Staff Member: Ron Bowersox, Veteran Affairs Coordinator, 724-479-8692

President’s Office