Texas AFT Retirees seek nomination to TRS Board of Trustees

Texas AFT Retiree+ members Craig Adams and Phyllis Ruffin are seeking the nomination for two open positions on the Teacher Retirement System of Texas’ Board of Trustees. The TRS Board of Trustees is responsible for administering TRS and making decisions regarding TRS’ $200 billion investment fund. Though the TRS Board of Trustees is not responsible for setting the amount in monthly annuities that retirees receive, the decisions the board makes impact the health of the fund, which has been identified by the Legislature as a key factor when considering the passage of a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA).

Craig Adams is a retired teacher who taught in Spring Branch ISD, Stafford ISD, and the Houston Community College System, among other places. Craig comes from a family of educators. His parents, his sister, and his niece all served or are currently serving as educators in Texas public schools. Craig retired in 2011 and has been receiving retirement benefits since then. Craig is running for the “Retiree” position on the board. Any TRS member who is currently retired and receiving benefits may sign Craig’s online nomination petition now and is eligible to vote for him when the voting begins in March 2023.

Phyllis Ruffin is a retired teacher and paraprofessional who taught in Alief ISD. Phyllis is a single mom who, at one point, had to work four jobs at the same time to provide for her family. Phyllis’ mantra is “lift while you climb.” As Phyllis moved up in her career, she always made sure to support and uplift others. Phyllis is an active volunteer at her church, her local YMCA, and the Houston Chapter of the NAACP. Phyllis is running for the “At-Large” position on the board. Both active and retired TRS members  may sign Phyllis’ online nomination petition now and are eligible to vote for her when the voting begins in March 2023.

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