Kelly Smith named as recipient of our 2026 MSEA-SEIU Steward of the Year Award

MSEA-SEIU Steward Kelly Smith addresses MSEA-SEIU delegates after being named as our 2026 MSEA-SEIU Steward of the Year during our 2026 MSEA-SEIU Annual Meeting Banquet.

By Jason Alley
MSEA-SEIU Chief Steward

Good evening, brothers, sisters, and siblings of MSEA-SEIU Local 1989.

It is my honor and privilege to recognize someone who truly embodies what it means to be a union steward and union activist. Someone whose dedication, enthusiasm and commitment to solidarity inspire everyone around her.

This year’s MSEA-SEIU Local 1989 Steward of the Year is Kelly Smith.

Kelly is the embodiment of what a true union steward should be. Her boundless energy and infectious attitude are always on display. Whether she is signing up new members, lobbying legislators on issues that matter to working families, or stacking boxes for the Solidarity Harvest, Kelly shows up ready to work, ready to help, and ready to make a difference.

Her passion for our union and her remarkable work ethic are evident in everything she does. Kelly doesn’t simply participate; she leads by example. She serves as an Alternate Board Member, contributes her expertise on the Compensation and Classification Team, serves on the Bargaining Team, and dedicates her time to the Solidarity Harvest Committee. Each of these roles require commitment, persistence, and a belief in the power of collective action, qualities Kelly demonstrates every day.

But perhaps the best measure of Kelly’s impact comes from the people who work alongside her.

Her peers and coworkers describe her as a great communicator and an even better listener. They speak about her dedication and her ability to keep members informed. Following bargaining sessions, Kelly is often among the first to share updates and debrief members on the latest bargaining notes, helping ensure everyone stays connected and engaged in the process.

Kelly understands that being a steward is more than enforcing a contract, filing a grievance, or answering questions. It is about building relationships, empowering members, and strengthening our union. It is about showing up when people need support and reminding us all that solidarity is not just a word, but an action.

Because of her unwavering commitment, her leadership, and her belief in the strength of working people, Kelly has made a lasting impact on her chapter, her coworkers and our union as a whole.

Please join me in congratulating the MSEA-SEIU Local 1989 Steward of the Year, representing the Eichel-Crinion Chapter, Kelly Smith.

Kelly, thank you for your service, your leadership and your dedication to our union family. We are stronger because of you. Congratulations!