EdCast A Steward of the Profession Posted April 18, 2012 By Matt Weber Dennis Van Roekel, a 23-year teaching veteran and longtime activist for children and public education, is president of the National Education Association (NEA), which represents more than 3 million educators. As NEA president, he leads the nation’s largest labor union and advocate for quality public schools.In this edition of the Harvard EdCast, Van Roeke discusses the perception of unions, his personal legacy, and how to make the teaching profession more of a dream job for young Americans.About the Harvard EdCast The Harvard EdCast is a weekly series of podcasts, available on the Harvard University iTunes U page, that features a 15-20 minute conversation with thought leaders in the field of education from across the country and around the world. Hosted by Matt Weber, the Harvard EdCast is a space for educational discourse and openness, focusing on the myriad issues and current events related to the field. EdCast An education podcast that keeps the focus simple: what makes a difference for learners, educators, parents, and communities Explore All Articles Related Articles EdCast A First-Choice Profession EdCast Voice of the Teachers' Union EdCast Embracing the Whole Student, Being Ratchetdemic Reimagining what teaching and learning looks like when we allow authenticity to happen across the board.