An Enduring Journey

An Enduring Journey
By Chuck Mulidore
NAPS Executive Vice President

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” Those words, written by Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu, mean that every journey, no matter how long, has a simple, yet critical, beginning. That journey—and first step—for the National Association of Postal Supervisors was no different; it is written in Article I of our Constitution & Bylaws.

Although brief, it is the heartbeat of our association—the reason supervisors from across the country traveled to Louisville, KY, in 1908 to form NAPS—and the reason we remain strong and united today. A constitution is crucial for any organization as it clarifies its purpose and basic structure, outlines member rights and responsibilities and provides a framework for decision-making and conflict resolution, ensuring consistency and accountability while helping attract and retain members by offering a clear understanding of how the organization functions. A written constitution serves as a foundational document that guides our organization’s operations and provides a roadmap for future leaders, ensuring the long-term stability and effectiveness of NAPS.

Article I declares our name: the National Association of Postal Supervisors. That name is more than a label; it is a promise. It says to every supervisor, manager and postmaster across the country, “You are not alone. You belong to a nationwide family of leaders who share your challenges, your responsibilities and your commitment to the mission of the United States Postal Service.”

Article I also reminds us of our purpose: to protect and promote the welfare of our members while strengthening the Postal Service we serve. That dual mission—caring for our members while supporting the institution—makes NAPS unique. We not only are advocates for a fair system of pay, due process for all EAS employees and the professional respect we have earned, but also ensure our partnership in guaranteeing that America’s mail service continues its fundamental role to bind our nation together.

When we fight for better pay and stronger benefits, when we stand up for EAS workplace rights, when we prepare new leaders to guide the Postal Service into the future—we are living out the words of Article I. It is more than a clause in a document; it is a living commitment to each other and to the institution that has endured since our nation’s earliest days.

The challenges we face today—technological change, legislative battles and the need for innovation—are real. But Article I reminds us of something even more powerful: our unity. Together, we are stronger. Together, our voices are heard. Together, we carry forward the proud tradition of leadership that makes our service as EAS employees a cornerstone of American life.

Article I is not just our beginning; it is our compass. It guides us and tells us who we are, why we exist and what we must always strive to be. As members of NAPS, we do not simply belong to an association—we belong to a mission, a movement and a family that has endured for over 117 years.

That is what makes NAPS unique, makes us strong, unites us and gives us purpose. It is our North Star on this incredible journey—one of a million miles with many more to go.