Get to Know Blair

Hi! I’m Blair Catlin Brown, and I’m proud to continue serving Sussex County in solidarity on the DSEA Executive Board. Union work is at the heart of who I am and I couldn’t do it without the unwavering support of my husband, Mark, and our son, Gus. They know that standing up for educators is my biggest calling outside of being a mom and wife.

I began my union journey in 2015 as a building representative in Somerset County, Maryland, where I learned how to navigate district pressures and advocate for colleagues. From there, I joined Wicomico County Public Schools and served on the President’s Council for the Maryland State Education Association.

In 2021, I came home to Indian River School District, where Gus now goes to school, and joined Selbyville Middle School as a School Social Worker. Within weeks, I jumped in as an Association Rep and haven’t slowed down since.

Here’s what that dedication has looked like:

• IREA Association Rep (SY 2021–22)

• DSEA Executive Board Member (since Jan. 2022)

• IREA Communications Chair (Mar. 2023)

• IREA Vice President for Teachers (SY 2023–24)

• DSEA Member Organizer (SY 2024–25, grant-funded)

• Spokesperson in local news on proposed state salary increases

• Speaker at Sussex County Council in support of educator impact/VSA fees

• IREA President (since July 2025)

Every day, I show up for members, whether it’s through meetings, texts, calls, or emails, because solidarity means being there when it matters most. 💜