Challenges to collective bargaining in Wisconsin, Ohio and other states have "mobilized our members and allies on the ground," said Jenny Ho, MPA '10, a labor economist for the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees in Washington, D.C., at the ILR School's Labor Roundtable Nov. 18.

"There is deep sense of solidarity. A career in the labor movement is an exciting opportunity to be part of a larger fight for the interests of working families and for a fair and just economy," she said.

"I wanted students to know how rewarding it is to do work that builds worker power. I also wanted them to know that there are a variety of careers within the labor movement. Work environment, hours and day-to-day tasks can vary dramatically depending on the particular occupation and the particular union," she said.

Simon Boehme '14, who attended the event, said, "Questioning labor leaders on their motivations, beliefs and daily activities provided a glimpse of the field I never knew about."

Cornell alumni participating in the 2011 Labor Roundtable included:

Mary Catt is assistant director of communications at the ILR School.