The campaign sign for Melissa Romano who has succeeded Amanda Curtis as the President of the Montana Federation of Public Employees.
In a significant development for Montana’s labor community, new leadership has emerged within the Montana Federation of Public Employees (MFPE), the state’s most extensive union, encompassing a diverse group of professionals including educators, law enforcement, and various public sector employees.
Melissa Romano, a Helena-based Democrat and educator, has been chosen as the new president of MFPE, succeeding Amanda Curtis who has served since 2020. Romano, who is also a state representative, expressed her excitement about the role, stating, “Livable wages, real benefits, and fair working conditions unite MFPE members across our wide professional and political spectrum.” She added, “I ran for president as a longtime member with deep policy experience, and I know unionism is about leveraging informed, engaged, and empowered members into winning fights for our shared values. I’m so excited to get started.”
Alongside Romano, the union members elected Lance Edward from the Billings Education Association as the 1st Vice President-elect, Michelle Wheat from the Montana Department of Transportation Employees as the 2nd Vice President, and Eric Matthews from the Bozeman Education Association as Treasurer-elect. These new leaders will officially assume their roles on June 15.
Amanda Curtis, the outgoing president, has announced her plans to retire from her position at MFPE to return to teaching in Butte. Despite this change, Curtis will continue her involvement with the organization as both a member and mentor. Reflecting on her tenure, Curtis remarked, “MFPE members are proud to have organized Montana’s largest labor union, a union built on democracy where members call the shots.” She highlighted achievements such as securing historic pay plans and resisting privatization and union-busting efforts. “I’m grateful to all members for stepping up to lead across this state, and I know Melissa will take this baton and run,” Curtis said.
