Public Employee Press

Union Scrapbook

Mike Popich disconnects keyboard

He's decided to give the keyboard a rest. Michael Popich, longtime head of DC 37's Information Technology Dept., received a warm sendoff from colleagues and union leaders March 20 at his retirement party.

"He's 55, gave 37 years of his life to the union, and started out as a baby," DC 37 Treasurer Maf Misbah Uddin said playfully. Popich was the target of gentle ribbing at the gathering, emceed by new IT Director Artie Waka.

The retirement brought recognition of the important IT accomplishments under Popich's leadership. These included a digital scanning project, major upgrades to the union's computer system, maintaining privacy protections for union benefits, keeping membership records current and getting the union back online after Hurricane Sandy.

"Mike, we wish you the best on behalf of Lillian Roberts and the executive office," said Associate Director Oliver Gray, who worked closely with Popich on the union's computer committee. Associate Director Henry Garrido thanked Popich for his willingness to put in weekends and long hours to keep the computer system running.

DC 37 President Eddie Rodriguez, Secretary Cliff Koppelman and Retirees Association Executive Vice President Audrey Iszard also thanked Popich for his service.

"I want to thank everyone for a great 37 years at DC 37," Popich said.