Melinda Person has been elected to a three-year term as president of the New York State United Teachers, the union announced Saturday.

She replaces Andy Pallotta, who retired from the leadership post. Pallotta had endorsed Person to replace him.

“There is no greater honor than to represent hard-working professionals in education and health care from across this state. I firmly believe they are the backbone of our classrooms, communities, and society. They deserve a strong voice in Albany and Washington advocating for better pay, working conditions and respect,” Person said in a statement. “I’m proud to be that voice.”

Person has served as executive director and political director of the NYSUT since 2019. She is credited with initiating and developing several successful statewide programs.

She has a New York state teaching certification in childhood education.

Union delegates also elected Jaime Ciffone, of New York City’s United Federation of Teachers, as executive vice president.

The NYSUT has nearly 700,000 members.