Angela Cox of TWU Local 555 has been selected to receive a Union Leaders of the Future Scholarship from the AFL-CIO's Union Plus benefits program. In addition to a small cash award to pursue her studies, Cox gained access to years of experience: She will be mentored by International President James C. Little, who will share his knowledge and help Cox become a better union leader.

The Union Leaders of the Future Program provides scholarships and mentoring to women and people of color who will help form the next generation of union leadership. This year 13 women and people of color representing 10 unions were awarded over $33,000 in scholarships.

"This is another example of the union movement not just talking the talk but walking the walk when it comes to diversity," says AFL-CIO Executive Vice President Arlene Holt Baker. "We're committed to developing a leadership that mirrors our workforce, and my message to women and people of color in that you can be anything you want to be."

Although only 29, Cox has compiled a strong union track record since becoming an Operations Agent for Southwest Airlines. She is a Shop Steward for Local 555 and worked full-time for the AFL-CIO's Labor 2008 Campaign and has been a TWU Legislative Intern in the Washington Office.

"It's not really a big base for Southwest here," Cox said, referring to Dulles International Airport in Virginia. "I used to speak up for my co-workers, and finally they told me to run for office, so I did."

She hopes that by advancing her education, she can advance her career and the interests of working families. "This scholarship and mentoring program will help give me direction in choosing my path," she says. Cox is attending the National Labor College to obtain a certificate in union administration.

When reached by the Express during a break in her studies, she was looking forward to attending her first system board meeting the following week. She praised the classes for giving her a good overview of union work, from arbitration to contract administration to organizing.

Cox believes President Little will be an ideal mentor because he will supplement classroom work with actual field experience. She hopes to be able to sort through which union roles she's best suited for. Although Cox loved her political work, she's not sure she would make it a full-time career.

President Little, who also started in the airline industry, has 35 years of experience building a strong and stable future for TWU members and working families everywhere. He said he views developing a diverse leadership as part of his legacy. "Acting as a mentor in this Union Plus program is a way of giving back. As a movement if we don't evolve, we dissolve. By sharing some of my experiences, I hope that I can help Angela overcome some of the obstacles I, and others, have faced."

The Union Leaders of the Future Program is open to union members, leaders and staff. The program provides annual awards of up to $3,000 to women and people of color to help them pursue union career goals and develop leadership skills.

For more information or to apply for a 2010 Union Leaders of the Future Scholarship, visit UnionPlus.org/Diversity.