Communications Committee Mission Statement
The mission of the APC Communications Committee is to assist the organization in its responsibility to maintain regular communications with Unit 4 employees.
The mission of the APC Communications Committee is to assist the organization in its responsibility to maintain regular communications with its members and foster engagement. To that end, this committee will obtain and produce informative union content, including, but not limited to the active APC website and social media accounts.
Meet the members:
Renée M. Martínez – Communication Committee Chair
- Time with CSU: 29 years
- Campus: Cal State Northridge
- Time with APC: Joined in 1998, after searching for a steward since 1996
- Time as Steward: Began in the late 1990s, with breaks, including ~2 years around 2016
- Communication Committee: Serving since 2008, now Chair
Why did you want to serve on the Communication Committee?
I first joined the Communications Committee in 2008, during its early years, because I saw the importance of working actively between APC governing Council meetings. At that time, committees like this were crucial for ensuring the union’s functionality, as much of the work had to happen outside of formal sessions.
In my second stint around 2010, we tried to improve APC’s media presence, including a marketing strategy to amplify our union’s principles and highlight our contributions to CSU students. Unfortunately, our proposal to hire a professional media consultant for the website was rejected—a decision I believe held us back for years.
In 2020, I rejoined the committee to help launch APC’s new website, which felt like unfinished business. Finally, we had the resources to create something meaningful for members. Becoming Chair was unexpected, but we’ve focused on improving social media, enhancing the website, and using these platforms to build community engagement.
What do you want members to know?
I want members to know that APC honors and respects their vital contributions to student success. The CSU cannot function without you, even if they fail to acknowledge it. APC recognizes your work, fights to protect you, and ensures fair working conditions so you can continue to support students with excellence.
Especially after the pandemic, we aim to tell your story and make your value known. Whether through the website, social media, or other platforms, the Communications Committee is here to speak truth to power and amplify your voice.
Mario Baeza – Communication Committee Member
- Time with CSU: Since 1990 (34 years)
- Campus: Cal State San Bernardino
- Time with APC: Joined in the 1990s, shortly after starting at CSU.
- Time as Chief Steward: Since 2009.
- Executive Board Role: Council Member at Large since 2014.
- Communication Committee: Serving since approximately 2014.
Why did you want to serve on the Communication Committee?
I’ve always been passionate about getting information out to our members in a format they can easily understand. When I first joined the committee, my main focus was on newsletters. The goal was to simplify complex topics—like bargaining language and technical memos—into something digestible and easy to comprehend. As someone once wisely told me: “Don’t make me think.” That phrase stuck with me because it captures the importance of clear and direct communication.
I enjoy finding ways to present essential information in ways that make it accessible and actionable for members. That’s what drove me to join this committee.
Now that social media is so prominent, my role is to support those who excel in it by providing the necessary information. I ensure the content is clear, factual, and member focused.
What do you want members to know?
The union is here for you, whether or not you feel like you need it right now. Some members think, “I don’t need the union because I have a great relationship with my supervisor.” That’s great, but it’s important to think collectively. Your dues help support others who might not have the same experience—those who need labor relations representatives or expertise in difficult situations.
Membership makes us stronger as a union. Even if you don’t see the benefit directly, you’re contributing to a network of support that’s always there, ready to step in when needed.
And things can change. Maybe your supervisor leaves, and a new one creates challenges. Or maybe a close colleague needs union support in a tough situation. That’s why it’s so important to pay it forward now—to strengthen the union for everyone and to ensure that support is available when it’s needed.
Krystal Flores – Communication Committee Member
How long have you been with CSU, and what campus are you at?
I have been with the CSU for 5 years. I am at Cal Poly Pomona.
How long have you been with APC, and how long as a Steward?
I have been with APC for 5 years and I have been a steward for almost 3 years.
Why did you want to serve on the Communication Committee?
I wanted to ensure that our members are getting accurate and quick information. One of my primary goals in joining the Communications Committee was to solidify a social media account for APC.
What do you want members to know?
Information is constantly changing and updating. Make sure to stay up to date by reading our website and following us on Instagram.
Marcus Allen Cordero – Communication Committee Member
Marcus recently joined the Communication Committee and is a Steward at San Francisco state.
The Communication Committee is honoring APC members by featuring them on the APC Statewide Instagram page. If you would like to be featured, or would like to recommend someone, please contact a member of the committee.