Candidate profiles and statements for 2019 WSNA elections

WSNA Board of Directors (11)

President (1)

Lynnette Vehrs, MN, RN

Inland Empire Nurses Association - Spokane

Education: Baccalaureate, Washington State University; Master’s, Washington State University. Present Position: Retired; volunteering at homeless medical clinic. Present Office: WSNA Legislative and Health Policy Chair. Past Offices: WSNA Legislative and Health Policy Council – 8 years total with 4 of the years as the chairwoman; Inland Empire Nurses Association Board of Directors and President. Awards, Honors, Service: Lifetime Achievement Award for IENA. Professional memberships: ANA/WSNA/IENA, League of Women Voters, Health Care for All-WA.

“I have a vision for WSNA that is one of strength and compassion. WSNA has had a history built on principles of advocacy for our patients and registered nurses. I wish to continue on this pathway as your WSNA President. I have been an RN for 42 years. I started in Tacoma as a psychiatric nurse, cardiac intensive care, and then moved to Spokane and worked as a skilled home care nurse for 18 years and retired from teaching at Washington State University College of Nursing. I have worked at all of my patient care facilities under a WSNA contract. I am a very strong supporter of our collective bargaining agreements. I have participated as a member on the negotiating teams several times. Currently I volunteer as an RN at a Spokane homeless medical clinic. I am passionate about quality health care. I want constructive changes to our health care system and this can also be done through the legislative process. I have been a member of the Legislative and Health Policy Council for a total of 8 years, last 4 years I have been your Chairwoman of this council. The council has been successful with a number of bills passed, including safe staffing, increased public health funds, addressing the opioid crisis and increasing the funds for nursing education. I will continue to advocate protecting our scope of practice, public health, and social justice in the delivery of health care. It is essential that we are involved in health care through health policy and legislative actions. There is more work to be done. WSNA’s powerful team of nurses will pass our meal and rest breaks bill along with others. I am a strong advocate for nurse and patient safety. I am asking for you vote to elect me to the position of the next WSNA President.”

Vice President (1)

Jennifer Graves, MS, BSN

King County Nurses Association - Seattle

Education: BSN, University of Portland; MS, University of Portland; Certificate in Human Resources Management, University of Washington. Present Position: Vice President, Quality and Safety and Regional Chief Nursing Executive, Kaiser Permanente Washington. Past Positions: Senior Vice President of Patient Safety and Quality, Washington State Hospital Association; Chief Executive and Nurse Executive, Swedish Medical Center. Past Offices: Vice President, WSNA Board of Directors; Director-at-Large, WSNA Board of Directors; Vice President, Washington State Nurses Foundation; President, King County Nurses Association. Awards, Honors, Service: WSNA Honorary Recognition Award, 2017; March of Dimes Distinguished Nurse of the Year, 2017. Professional Associations: ANA, WSNA, KCNA, ACHE, NWONE, STT.

“As a member of WSNA for several decades, I have witnessed the value of our professional association and am grateful that WSNA is inclusive of all nurses, in all roles, and strives to create unity during such a divisive time in our country. It would be my honor to represent you and serve the nurses of our state and work together to advance our profession and further the important mission of WSNA.”

Pamela Pasquale, MN, RN, BC

District 7 - Wenatchee

Education: Baccalaureate, Everett CC; Master’s in Nursing, University of Washington; Shoreline CC Labor Management AA. Present Position: Foot Care RN. Prior Positions: Long professional journey beginning from hospital in 1985 hospital to home health; home care; nursing home charge nurse; nurse delegation; RN faculty, Assisted LIving RN; Home Care Aide certification developer; CNA instructor; Foot care RN. Present Office: Chair, WSNA Professional Nursing and Health Care Council. Past Offices: 1985 – 2007 Capitol City Nurses; Snohomish Co Nurses, Officer or Chair; WSNA Board of Directors 1995-1997, 2009-2011, 2017-present; Practice Council 1997-2001, 2001-2007: 2011-2017, Chair 2017-present; Foundation: 2007-2009.

“It’s been exciting to feel the new energy at WSNA as we have moved forward. New leadership is anticipated in this election and it’s important to have those with the association history, experience and familiarity with the issues that will help contribute to the new leaders’ success and keep WSNA moving forward. My talents and strengths are my commitment to the Association for over 30 years with my direct involvement which has included 3 terms on the Board of Directors, as well as many years serving on the Professional Nursing and Health Care Council where I am currently chair. Additional strengths for the Association are in to assist new WSNA staff who also benefit from members like myself, who have the institutional memory and knowledge of the past Association activities and successes that would help them transition quickly and effectively. WSNA is recognizing and supporting efforts to reach out to my specialty interest: Long term care nursing practice. It is emerging as an important initiative and I’m particularly interested in guiding that effort to develop a successful partnership.”

Secretary Treasurer (1)

Verlee “Vee” Sutherlin, BSN, MSN, Med.

Inland Empire Nurses Association - Nine Mile Falls

Education: Diploma, Deaconess Hospital School of Nursing; baccalaureate, Whitworth Unversity, MSN, University of Portland; M.Ed,Gonzaga Unviersity – Spokane Present Position: Retired Prior Positions: Faculty Spokane Community College and a Staff Nurse SHMC. Present Office: WSNA Board of Directors Secretary/Treasurer. Past Offices: WSNA Board of Directors, Secretary/Treasurer; WSNA Finance Committee; IENA Board of Directors; Inland Empire Nurses Association treasurer. Awards, Honors, Service: Inland Empire Nurses Association Nurse of Year.

“I am a candidate for WSNA Secretary/Treasurer and would appreciate your vote. It has been my privilege and responsibility to serve as your current Secretary/Treasurer for the past two years. I am proud of the work our WSNA Board of Directors has done and continues to do at a time when there have been many challenges in the labor and health care environment. My background as a staff nurse, nurse educator and administrator provides me with the skills to serve effectively in this position and contributes to the stability of WSNA in Washington as well as nationally. I appreciate your support of my candidacy for Secretary/Treasurer on the WSNA Board of Directors and Finance Committee.”

Director At-Large (3)

Christina Bradley, BSN, RN

Pierce County Nurses Association - Tacoma

Education: Franklin Pierce High School; baccalaureate, Pacific Lutheran University; MN, Western Governor’s University. Position: CHI Franciscan, Stroke Coordinator RN. Present Office: Member of WSNA PNHCC. Past Offices: WSNA Board of Directors Staff Member at Large; WSNA-PAC Board of Trustees, WSNA Delegate. Awards, Honors, Service: Gladys Campbell Nursing Scholarship.

“I have always loved advocating for nurses as evidenced by my prior involvement with WSNA and PCNA. It is important for nurses to participate professionally in nursing and to recognize the benefits that come with a nursing association and union. I feel like I would be a good candidate to help promote this involvement. The strengths I would bring to a leadership role in this association include clear and professional communication skills, a passion for helping nurses, a caring, compassionate perspective, and past experience with WSNA.”

Susan K. Glass, MS, RN

Inland Empire Nurses Association - Spokane

Education: BSN, Washington State University; MS (Nursing), Arizona State University. Position: retired since March 2015. Past Positions: Spokane VAMC-cardiology nurse coordinator, oncology nurse navigator, other duties as assigned (15 yrs at VA); WSU clinical instructor; VNA staff nurse (supplemental); SHMC staff nurse, telemetry (supp); HFH staff development coordinator; Deaconess. Present Office: WSNA Board of Directors, director at large. Past Offices: Inland Empire Nurses Association Treasurer 2016-present; investment committee since approx. 2000-present. Awards, Honors, Service: Outstanding RN in advanced practice Spokane VA, 2005.

“I have enjoyed serving on the WSNA Board of Directors as it provides an opportunity to serve the membership and help guide the organization forward. It is important to have a balance of mature members as well as newer nurses serving on the Board in order to have broad representation of the profession.My strengths include a broad understanding of nursing practice, history of working in multiple settings, clear writing style, attention to detail, and an ability to get along with people. I hope to continue to serve the Association.”

Mikey Anne O’Sullivan, BSN, RN

Inland Empire Nurses Association - Spokane

Education: Master’s, Morningside College, will graduate April 2019. Position: RN, Unify Community Health Center. Present Office: Inland Empire Nurses Association, Director of Community/Public Health, 2017-present. Awards, Honors, Service: Alpha Beta Kappa National Honor Society, member 2017-present. Current GPA 4.0. Professional Associations: American Nurses Association.

“When I started my master’s degree, I started learning about the large numbers of nurses compared to others in the medical profession. I often wondered why nurses were not using these numbers to make a change. When I lived in Iowa, I followed WSNA on Facebook because I was so impressed with the impact they had and support they gave to nurses. When I moved to Spokane, I wanted to be involved in a nursing association to be part of this excitement. I reached out to different associations and only heard back from IENA. I researched them before joining and was happy to find that they were associated with WSNA. I was welcomed as a new board member and was happy to find so many strong women involved in supporting nurses. This past March I was fortunate to attend the WSNA Hall of Fame banquet. I was welcomed by every person I met and felt like I had been a member of WSNA for many years. When I was listening to the inductees speak, I felt privileged to be in the same room as them and wondered how I would/could make an impact like these women did. I decided the best way to make an impact is to get involved with WSNA. My work with, and dedication to, the underserved population aligns with WSNA’s purpose to ensure health care services are available to all. I believe that my current schooling in nursing informatics will be an asset to WSNA and to promoting quality healthcare using evidence-based research. If given the opportunity to serve on the WSNA board I will support the goals and missions of WSNA. I will promote WSNA enrollment, and I will work with other WSNA members to meet WSNA goals. Thank you for your time.”

Jordan Pai Palimar, MN, BSN

King County Nurses Association - Sammamish

Education: MSN, University of Washington-Bothell; BSN, Pennsylvania College of Technology; Associate’s, Social Work, Northampton Community College. Position: RN2 at UWMC. Past Positions: RN, Lehigh Valley Health Network. Present offices: Board of Directors, Washington State Nurses Foundation board of trustees, PHNCC. Honors and Awards: ANCC Board Certified Nurse for Medical Surgical Nursing WSNA: member since 2014. ANA: Advisory member for the Panel for Palliative Care and Hospice Nursing 2016. Local Unit: King County.

“I look forward to serving nurses in Washington ton to continue to elevate the standard at which they practice, influence policy and healthcare at both a local and national level.”

Trish Tobis, MSN

King County Nurses Association - Bellevue

Education: Master of Nursing, University of Washington. Position: Retired. Past Positions: Bedside nursing, nurse educator, home health, critical care, home intravenous nursing, case manager. Past Offices: WSNA Board of Directors, PAC Board of Trustees, Legislative and Health Policy Council. KCNA Board of Directors. Awards, Honors, Service: KIXI nurse of the day 1982 and 1982, King County Nurses Association excellence in nursing practice award. I have been a member of several committees appointed or elected to WSNA as well as KCNA from 1979 until 2016. I have also been elected to both boards, KCNA and WSNA. Between 1985 and 1995 I was active in crime vicitim association to provide support for crime vicitims of serious crimes. I also held a leadership role and was appointed to a special task force by Governor Gardner to represent crime victimes in 1989. Major legislation was passed in 1990 as a result of this task force work.

Rosa Young, MSN, MPA, BSN

King County Nurses Association - Seattle

Education: BSN, Seattle University and MSN, Seattle University; N/A MPA, Seattle University. Position: Substitute Nurse, Seattle Public Schools. Past Position: Nursing Supervisor, VA Puget Sound Healthcare System. Present Offices: WSNA Board of Directors, Alternate and Delegate to ANA Membership Assembly; KCNA Board of Directors. Past Offices: WSNA Nomination & Search Committee, WSNA Convention Planning Committee. Awards, Honors, Service: Sigma Theta Tau; served in USAFR (20 + years) Retired LTC, mentoring other young nurses.

“I love nursing and enjoy providing health services to those in need. I am a volunteer on many community outreach programs such as Northwest Kidney Centers, MMPNO and KCNA. Retired form VAPSHCS after 33 years of service and 20 years of the USAFR Nurse Corp for 20. I am an active participant in my church Health and Wellness Ministry. Chairperson on the Ways and Means Committee for MMPNO and have served in the role of Chairperson and program organizer for 5 consecutive years. I believe that I have the skill set and qualifications to serve in the role of Member at Large.”

Director at Large Staff Nurse – (2)

Adam Halvorsen, BSN, RN

District 15 - Richland

Education: Columbia Basin College and Washington State University Position: Acute Care Nurse, Kadlec. Prior Positions: Sergeant, United States Marine Corps; AEMT, Medstar Ambulance (Gallup, NM); Firefighter/AEMT, Gallup Fire Department. Awards, Honors, Service: USMC: Meritorious promotion to Private First Class and Corporal, USMC: Marine of The Quarter – Combat Assault Battalion; Washington State University: Outstanding Undergraduate Student.

“I live and have lived to serve, and my life consists of successive chapters penned in the theme of service to others. The WSNA is comprised of those with the same humble ambition: caring for our patients by pushing forward the standard and availability of care, and nursing development through advocacy and education. There is inspiration drawn from my interactions with the leaders within the WSNA and the passion each person holds for people and the profession of nursing is undeniable and immensely motivating. I am drawn to that passion and am excited at the prospect to serve the people and nurses of Washington through further involvement in the WSNA. I have been lucky to serve in a number of leadership roles throughout the years: as a Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps, Class Leader in my fire academy and more recently I was honored to serve as President of the Nursing Students of Washington State, and Director for the National Student Nurses Association. The experience and lessons gleaned through each of these positions has proven invaluable and will continue to be as I move forward in service. There is a sentence from Cicero’s De Officiis that has always struck me and offers insight into my motivation and desire to serve: ‘non nobis solum nati sumus ortusque nostri partem patria vindicat, partem amici’ which translates to ‘Not for us alone are we born; our country, our friends, have a share in us.’ I believe wholeheartedly that we live to serve one another; we are each wonderfully burdened by the honor and obligation to see that each among us are respected, cared, and provided for and I intend to use any talents I possess to work toward that idea. Service within the WSNA will allow me to do so.”

Judi M Lyons, RN

District 18 - Ellensburg

Education: Associate Degree, Yakima Valley Community College. Position: Staff nurse, Kittitas Valley Healthcare. Current Offices: District President, WSNA-PAC Board, ANA Delegate. Past Offices: WSNA President, WSNA Board of Directors; Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare; Local Unit Secretary; District President. Honors and awards: WSNA Joanna Boatman Staff Nurse Award.

“I have had the opportunity to participate with WSNA for over 40 years. I bring renewed energy and a long history of involvement. My knowledge of past history of WSNA will help bridge activities as we move into the future. I enjoy being part of the ‘solution.’ As an active member of WSNA, I help to that end.”

WSNA Nomination / Search Committee (4)

Suzanne Baek, RN

King County Nurses Association - Federal Way

Education: Kyoungki University, Inchon, Korea. Position: Staff nurse, Virginia Mason Medical Center. Past Positions: Nurse manager at St. Joseph Medical Center Tacoma, House Supervisor at St. Francis Hosp. Federal Way. Present Office: Virginia Mason Local unit secretary and treasurer.

“Ever since I joined WSNA in 2007, I served as a Local unit rep., grievance officer, and now I am serving as a LU secretary and treasurer. I have a passion, desire, energy and strength to increase my involvement to WSNA for improvement.”

Jan Bussert, BSN, RN

King County Nurses Association - Vashon

Education: Diploma, St. Elizabeth School of Nursing; BSN, Gonzaga University. Position: Retired. Past Positions: Nurse organizer, WSNA; Triage, Vashon Health Center; Yakima Heart Center, ICU, PACU. Honors and awards: ANA Honorary Recognition Award, WSNA Leadership Award. Current Office: WSNA President Past Offices: WSNA President 2015-2017, WSNA 1st Vice President 1979-1983; WSNA 1st Vice President 1993-1997; WSNA President 201502019 and 1997-2001; ANA Board of Directors 2000-2003.

Judith (Judy) Huntington, MN, RN

King County Nurses Association - Kent

Education: MN, BSN, University of Washington. Position: Retired. Past Positions: WSNA Executive Director, 1999-2017. Past Offices: WSNA President, WSNA second vice president, chair of ANA Constituent Forum, ANA second vice president. More.

Susan E. Jacobson, CCRN, RN

District 6

Yakima

Education: Associate degree, South Puget Sound Community College; Chamberlain University/Chamberlain College of Nursing (graduating 2019), Associate’s of Arts & Science. Position: Staff nurse, ASTRIA Regional Medical Center. Past Positions: AACN Certified in Adult Critical Care (CCRN), Charge Nurse – ICU, Chair – Safe Staffing Multidisciplinary Committee, Member – Safe Staffing Multidisciplinary Committee, ACLS Instructor, PALS Provider, NALS Provider, Mentor/Preceptor – nursing students. Current Office: WSNA Legislative and Health Policy Council; District 6 Board of Directors, Secretary. Past Offices: President, WSNA (2013-2015); Vice President, WSNA (2011-2013); chair, WSNA Legislative & Health Policy Council (2007-2011); member, Legislative and Health Policy Council (2002-2013); WSNA Board of Directors (2007-2015); member WSNAF Board of Trustees (2007-2011); chair, WSNA Board of Trustees (2011-2013); ANA Nominating Committee. Awards, Honors, Service: WSNA District 6 Excellence in Leadership Award; WSNA Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare Nurse Hero Award; mentor, ICNE Nursing School Students; AACN-CCRN certification/member.

Muriel Softli, BSN, MPA

King County Nurses Association - Seattle

Education: BSN, University of Washington, M.Ed., Central Washington University, MPA, University of Washington. Position: Retired School Nurse. Past Positions: 1962-1967 Public Health New York City, 1968-2010 Seattle Public Schools, 1970-1996 USAFR NC McChord AFB, Wash. Current Office: WSNA Professional Nursing and Health Care Council. Awards, Honors, Service: 2000 WSNA Hall Of Fame, 2017 UW School of Nursing PH Preceptor of the Year, 2018 UW School of Nursing Centennial 1 of a 100 chosen Nurse Influencer.

“I was trained and encouraged to actively participate in my professional nursing organizations by my school of nursing professors back in 1955. Been active since that time to this date. Participating in my professional organizations kept me informed of nursing issues, concerns, trend, legislative bills and laws. I have a need to be current in all these areas in order to comprehend current nursing happenings. Over the years it was wonderful meeting nurses from throughout the state and nation in the different areas of nursing. Being active on those different committees are informative and necessary in becoming a nursing leader.”

Legislative and Health Policy Council (4)

Chair and Member of WSNA Board of Directors (1)

Justin Gill, MS, RN, ARNP

Pierce County Nurses Association - Gig Harbor

Education: ADN, Whatcom Community College; BSN, University of Washington Bothell; MS Nursing, Georgetown University; DNP (in progress), Yale University. Position: ARNP Urgent Care, CHI Franciscan. Past Positions: ARNP Family Practice, Skagit Regional Health; RN, PeaceHealth and Skagit Valley Hospital. Current Office: ANA-PAC Board of Trustees (2017-Present). Awards, Honors, Service: UW Bothell Outstanding Alumni Award, 2017; ANA Nurse Advocate Award, 2014; Whatcom CC Laidlaw Award Recipient, 2012.

“As a current member of the WSNA Legislative/Health Policy Council, former congressional intern and health policy advocate, I feel strongly that nurses have the ability to make a significant impact on health care policy at the state and national level. WSNA is a strong organization that advocates for nurses and patient safety on the front lines. Our profession is involved at every level of health care delivery. Because of this, nurses need to be present at the table in all policy discussions that relate to health care, or the social determinants of health. I have had the opportunity to testify on issues in Olympia, complete an advocacy fellowship with ANA, and lead on issues related to safe staffing and workplace violence. I look forward to using these experiences as a foundation for my WSNA leadership opportunities moving forward. It has been a privilege to serve on the Legislative/Health Policy Council thus far, and I am excited at the opportunity of serving our organization as chair of the committee. I humbly ask for your vote this election.”

Member at-Large (3)

Gemma Aranda, BSN

King County Nurses Association - Bellevue

Education: Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Position: Relief Charge Nurse, Overlake Hospital; Evergreen Hospital. Past Positions: Clinical Educator, 1995-1997; Critical Care Nurse 1997 to present; Post Anesthesia Care Nurse, 2013 to present. Awards, Honors, Service: Third Academic Honors BSN 1992-1995; Overlake Hospital Contract Negotiation Team, 2017; current Overlake PACU Unit Rep and Overlake Hospital Grievance Officer.

“It’s apparent at workplaces that the laws, which were fought for hard by nurses for the protection of their labor rights and professional practice are continuously being undermined. With respect to the bravery, sacrifices and wisdom of our Nurses union who worked hard to pass the House Bills into Law, it is time to restore the precept that each individual at any level of professional position is held accountable for his/her actions and choice to break the law. My faith-based decision making, courage, strength and integrity will help me lead with authority.”

Susan Dunn, MSN, RN, CHRN

King County Nurses Association - Seattle

Education: BSN, Seattle University; MSN, Western Governor’s University. Position: Staff Nurse – Hyperbaric, Virginia Mason Hospital. Current Office: WSNA Legislative and Health Policy Council member. Awards, Honors, Service: WSNA Economic and General Welfare Grievance Office of the Year Award.

“This is an important time for nurses to speak up on health care issues. The Legislative and Health Policy Council helps provide that voice. As a WSNA member for almost 30 years, more than a decade as a bargaining unit grievance officer and as a participant in several contract negotiations, I bring historic and practical perspectives. As a Staff Nurse, I bring the bedside view. I have learned a lot in my last 2 years on the council and want to continue contributing and using that experience.”

Elizabeth Espy, RN, CEN

Northwest Region - Bellingham

Education: ADN, Whatcom Community College; in progress WGU; CEN (Certified Emergency Nurse). Position: Emergency Department RN, PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center. Awards, Honors, Service: Daisy Award Nominee, Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) member, Local Unit Emergency Department Unit Representative, member of hospital-wide Staffing Committee. Northwest District participated in initial meeting to celebrate formation of the district, eagerly awaiting first business meeting to assist in building our board and branding our district.

“When nurses are protected, valued and empowered by employers and lawmakers, our patients have better outcomes. More often, however, we are expected to sacrifice basic workplace safety and personal well-being. We do this every day when we bridge the gap between the needs of our departments and patients with the often inadequate resources allocated by the organizations for which we work. Emphasis needs to be placed on laws and regulations which protect us and our patients. WSNA works tirelessly on our behalf for this. It would be my privilege to serve on the Legislative and Health Policy Council and champion WSNA’s identified priorities at the state level. Thank you.”

Jeremy R. King, MSN, ARNP, FNP-C

King County Nurses Association - Seattle

Education: MSN, ARNP, Seattle University. Position: Nurse Practitioner at Cascade Valley ED Past Positions: 20 years RN experience at Seattle Children’s Hospital and Swedish Edmonds Hospital. Predominantly in Emergency. Current Office: WSNA Legislative and Health Policy Council Member. Awards, Honors, Service: ANAI Fellow 2017-2018, Alpha Sigma Nu member and Sigma Theta Tau member. King County Nurses Association Scholarship recipient; participated in yearlong mentorship program.

“I’m inspired by the nursing profession’s capacity and potential for effecting good in our country. I believe that nursing represents a unique point of view in health care and that it is our responsibility as nurses to advocate for social justice oriented policy and legislation. I believe that as a nurse it is our responsibility to improve the health of all Americans through working for positive change around any issue that affects health. As we move America into the future I believe nursing will help lead our health care system to be more equitable, affordable and accessible to all Americans. I bring 20 years of nursing experience to my work with WSNA. I also bring my strong bias towards health care as a human right with me whenever I participate in Association activities or politics.”

Lynn Nelson, RN, MSN, NCSN

District 13 - Olympia

Education: South Puget Sound Community College; Master’s Degree, Saint Martin’s University. Position: Director, Health Services and Student Support, Capital Region ESD 113. Past Positions: 1997-2002 School Nurse, North Thurston Public Schools; 1990-1996 Home Health Manager, Providence Sound Home Care and Hospice; 1986-1990 Home Health Nurse, Providence Sound Home Care and Hospice; 1985-1986 Med/Surg Acute Care RN, Providence. Awards, Honors, Service: WSNA Excellence in Practice Award, 2017; SNOW Nurse Administrator of the Year, 2013; Johnson & Johnson School Health Leadership Fellowship, 2013; SNOW current NASN Director, past Legislative Chair.

“I have served as the Director of Student Support and Health Services at Capital Area Educational Service District #113, in Tumwater, Washington, since 2002, where I supervise and support school nurses and other support staff in 5 counties, and administer multiple related health and social service programs. I believe that providing quality service for children and families must include an intentional focus on equity in both the health and education arenas. My professional interests focus on both school health and health care policy. I have been an RN since 1985. I received my MSN in Leadership and Health Care Policy from Saint Martin’s University in 1998 and am a Nationally Certified School Nurse with more than 20 years of experience in school health. I am a member of the Washington State Nurses Association (WSNA), the Washington Association of School Administrators (WASA), the School Nurse Organization of Washington (SNOW), and the National Association of School Nurses (NASN). I am currently serving as the NASN Director and am also the past Legislative Chair for SNOW. I was honored in 2017 to have been chosen for the WSNA Excellence in Practice Award, and I was the SNOW Washington State School Nurse Administrator of the Year in 2013 I live in Olympia and have a large blended family who keep me centered. I spend my free time hanging out with my kids, reading, gardening, hiking, and traveling whenever I can.”

Erin Stevenson, BSN, BS

Northwest Region - Bellingham

Education: Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing, Western Governor’s University; Bachelor’s of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Univ. of Nebraska-Lincoln. Position: Registered Nurse, PeaceHealth. Past Positions: Mechanical Engineering – State of Nebraska Energy Office, Ford Motor Company Internship, Midwest Roadside Safety Facility (UNL). Current Office: WSNA Legislative and Health Policy Council, member on the new Northwest Region Board.

“I have enjoyed the last two years serving on the Legislative and Health Policy Council. There is a lot to learn and know about the process and I have barely scratched the surface. I am eager to continue the work to advocate for my fellow nurses statewide, by educating our legislators on critical nursing issues such as workplace violence, meal and rest breaks, and mental health issues. I have never been one to sit quietly when I see something that needs to be improved upon. I bring to this council a passion for changing the current environment to one where all nurses can feel safe and supported at their jobs.”

Stephanie Wahlgren

Northwest Region - Sedro-Woolley

Education: ADN, Skagit Valley College; Baccalaureate, University if Washington; Doctorate, Gonzaga University projected graduation 2021. Position: Forensic Nurse Coordinator, PeaceHealth Saint Joseph Medical Center. Past Position: RN at Skagit Valley Hospital on and off since 2011. Awards, Honors, Service: Nominated for Daisy award x 2, Forensic Nursing Excellence Award.

“The WSNA has been integral to helping move forward legislation to protect survivors of interpersonal violence. Forensic nursing is an emerging science and nursing field. The WSNA has the ability to work with hospitals in compensating nurses for their time. Many times, nurses are not compensated for this work, nor do hospitals see the need to compensate nurses for taking the training and working with sexual assault patients. The IAFN and ENA have put out a joint statement regarding testimony, and evidence collection being better and stronger with foresncially trained nurses. We also have one hospital in the state of Washington that trains all nurses, while this is important, the nurses trained on the East side are not getting the same training as on the West Side. We need to push forward legislation that standardizes education for all forensic nurses in the state. This will ensure standardized practice to each patient.”

Professional Nursing & Health Care Council (7)

Chair and Member of WSNA Board of Directors (1)

Charles C. Cumiskey, MBA, BSN, RN

District 13 - Olympia

Education: Diploma, Good Samaritan School of Nursing, Portland, OR; BSN, Saint Martin University; MBA, University of Washington Tacoma. Position: Chief Nursing Supervisor Group – Transfer Center, Madigan Army Hospital Center. Past Positions: Nursing Commission, GroupHealth, and Sister of Providence. Past Offices: WSNA Professional Nursing & Health Care Council 2013-2015; WSNA-PAC 1995-1997. Awards, Honors, Service: 28 years in the Army Reserves.

At-Large (1)

Rayanne Lilley, BS, RN

Inland Empire Nurses Association - Spokane

Education: BS, Washington State University. Position: Staff RN ENDO/SPU/Infusion/ICU & Clinical Nurse Educator, Sacred Heart and Ashfield Healthcare. Past Position: Food and Beverage Department Head. Awards, Honors, Service: Magna Cum Laude, I.N.F.U.S.E. Award 02/2018.

“I can’t expect change if I do not put the work in for it to happen. I want to be an advocate for nurses as well as patients. I am energized and outspoken.”

Administration (1)

Suzanne Scott, RN, MSN, NEA-BC

Pierce County Nurses Association - Lacey

Education: Virginia Commonwealth University, Medical College of Virginia and University of Colorado Health Sciences Center. Position: Deputy Commanding Officer (COO equivalent), US Army; Madigan Army Medical Center. Past Positions: RN, Vanderbilt University, June 1989 – January 1990; US Army Nurse Corps, January 1990 – present; Chief Nurse, US Army Forces Command, Fort Bragg, NC, August 2012 – June 2015; Assistant Chief Nurse, Womack Army Medical Center, Fort Bragg. Awards, Honors, Service: Inductee, Order of Military Medical Merit 9A proficiency designation (Army certified expert in nursing), ANCC Nurse Executive, Advanced Board Certification.

“As a senior leader in the Army, I have found my passion in taking care of the people who take care of patients. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed building and sustaining a collaborative team that is focused on patient centered care. After moving to Washington last year, my family and I have realized that this is our forever home. Knowing that I am no longer transient, I want to expand my talents to helping build a body of nurses that are focused on what’s important; building and sustaining relationships with our patients. I want to help nursing leaders coach and teach their nurses in understanding the heart of nursing — that trusting relationship between patient and nurse. I want to be involved in the WSNA to help leaders build collaborative nursing teams who can continue to improve the delivery of safe, quality nursing care.”

Education (1)

Heather M. Stephen-Selby, BSN, MSN, ARNP-BC, RN

King County Nurses Association - Renton

Education: Vancouver General Hospital School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Seattle University, Kwantlan College. Position: Nurse Manager/ARNP, HealthPoint Community Health Center. Past Positions: WSNA Assistant Executive Director of Nursing Practice, Education, Research 2014-2018; Adjunct Faculty Heritage University, 2017-18; Interim Dean of Nursing Spokane Community College and Director of SCC student health, 2013-14; ARNP 2002-2013. Past Offices: PNHCC committee member for 4 years prior to becoming an employee of WSNA; Chaired disaster preparedness workgroup for 2 years while with PNHCC council. Awards, Honors, Service: WSNA Ethics Award 2007, Governors workforce 2008, RTC employee of the quarter 2006. King County Nurses Association Director at Large currently.

“As a long time active member with the Washington State Nurses Association and a past employee I am looking for the opportunity to return to engagement. WSNA’s mission, in my experience has been demonstrated on a number of levels around leadership, promoting quality health care, education, advocacy and influencing health care policy in the state of Washington and nationally. As a former WSNA employee, who was the Assistant Executive Director of Nursing Practice, Education, and Research for four years and was an active member prior I believe in the work WSNA does. Being a member our voices, ideas and experiences are not only heard but enacted upon with my past experience with PHNCC. We addressed nursing practice issues such as, scope of practice encroachment, practice gaps including transition to practice, and unclear regulatory language. I bring a highly diverse background as a former employee of WSNA who is familiar with the organization, ANA, and practicing in community health. I understand our challenges as an RN and advanced practice provider through a variety of lenses because I have worked in a variety of settings including acute care, community health, education, and administration. I have been heavily involved at the local and state level on workforce issues for nurses around safe practice, workplace violence and growing the nursing ranks. Policy engagement and legislation are areas in which I have been active. During my employment with WSNA I taught CNE courses and now in-services in my current position. As an active ARNP, I am working currently in community health addressing social determinants of health, health literacy, access, and providing a voice with our diverse communities for healthcare for all. I am also currently a Director at Large with the King County Nurses Association, who are very active leaders around my passion with the homeless and underserved. As an advocate and educator of equal rights and access for all, I am passionate about our ability as a profession we use our voice. As a nurse manager and leader I owe it to my colleagues to step up and engage as we continue to advocate for our patients, communities and ourselves.”

Ethics & Human Rights (1)

Vesna Jovanovich, BS, RN

King County Nurses Association - Renton

Education: Lake Washington Institute Of Technology School Of Nursing; Nadezda Petrovic Alfa Bk University, Bachelor’s In Business Education. Position: Clinical Manager / Quality Assurance Specialist, Harvard Partners Health. Past Positions: KBC Zemun Medical Center, CRNA Oct. 2004 – Sept. 2005, ICU RN May 2003 – Sept. 2004.

“I am a registered nurse, humanitarian, and mother, dedicated to helping people lead a happy, healthy, and productive life. In my current career I am inspired by creating ways to help our senior clients progress and have a new and exciting outlook on thier lives, and also being able to help my medical team help these people reach those goals while applying the best possible care. Working with WSNA, I would be able to apply my knowlege to build and work with a team at a higher level and be part of helping all Washington nurses working on things like compliance and related issues so they may be able to have safe well regulated work environments so that they in turn can give their highest level of care and safety to thier patients. I have a large amount of experience in medicare/medicaid, commercial insurance compliance continued education, and keep current knowledge of changing rules and regulations. I would like the opportunity to exchange ideas with other nurses and also apply my skill sets to helping WSNA grow, stay strong for our members and progress.

Practice (1)

Jennifer Reinhardt, BSN, RN

Pierce County Nurses Association - Bonney Lake

Education: BSN, Pacific Lutheran University. Position: CNOIC Surgical Services Center, Madigan Army Medical Center. Past Positions: St. Francis hospital – staff nurse medical surgical unit. Current Office: WSNA Professional Nursing and Healthcare Council. Awards, Honors, Service: Daisy Award recipient 2016, 2x Swan Award recipient, Advancement towards High Reliability in healthcare award AMSUS 2017.

“I am passionate about strengthening the nursing profession and advocating for Washington state nurses. I would like to continue serving the nurses of Washington state and retain my seat on the Professional Nursing and Healthcare Council. I will continue to collaborate at the state and local level to strengthen clinical quality improvement initiatives, solidify healthy work environments for all health care staff, and advocate for nursing professionals of Washington state. I believe when we improve the quality and employment conditions for the nurses of Washington state we will advance not only the profession of nursing, but patient care as well.”

Research (1)

Anne Hirsch, PhD, BSN

King County Nurses Association - Seattle

Education: BSN, Washington State University; MN, University of Washington; PhD, Indiana University. Position: Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, University of Washington. Past Positions: Seattle University and Pacific Lutheran University. Current Office: WSNA Professional Nursing & Health Care Council. Honors and awards: KCNA Shining Star Award; Fellow in the American Academy of Nursing; Fellow, American Association of Nurse Practitioners.

“I am looking forward to continuing to contribute to the important work of the professional nursing and health care council as the research representative. I have learned a great deal during my previous terms of service and feel much better prepared to help advance the initiatives of the Council.”

Cabinet on Economic & General Welfare (10)

Chair and Member of the WSNA Board of Directors (1)

Julia R. Barcott, RN

District 7 - Yakima

Education: Associate Degree in Nursing, Yakima Valley Commnity College. Position: RN, ICU Med Surg, Astria Toppenish Hospital. Past Positions: ICU/Critical Care Float at Yakima Regional Hospital; Dialysis RN at Davita. Current Office: Chair, WSNA Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare. Past Offices: Vice chair, WSNA Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare (2011-2013 and 2013-2014); local unit co-chair, Yakima Regional Medical Center; member, Yakima regional negotiation team; ANA Standards & Scope of Practice Committee; WSNA-PAC Board of Trustees. Awards, Honors, Service: 2018 AFT Hero Award, WSNA Negotiations/Rising Star Award; Dial Infection Control.

“Rise up! Nurses have been doing this for years. Through WSNA, we are united in improving safety for nurses and our patients. My passion is to continue in this fight with all of you to improve staffing, prevent workplace violence, and address social justice issues. In solidarity we have achieved great changes and can continue to move forward to improve our profession and our communities.”

Vice Chair (1)

Clarise Mahler, BSN, RN, CCRN

King County Nurses Association - Duvall

Education: Baccalaureate, Humboldt State University, California. Position: Staff RN Critical Care, Evergreen Health. Past Positions: Harborview Medical Center, staff RN 1993-1999; St. Joseph’s Hospital, Eureka, CA 1987-1993 Staff RN Oncology. Current Office: Co-chair, WSNA Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare. Awards, Honors, Service: 2013 WSNA Outstanding Negotiation Team Award; AACN.

“I have a passion for helping nurses obtain the best working conditions. I believe when we unify we can have safe staffing, professional respect, advocate for evidence based practice and encourage our hospitals and government to provide health care for all.”

Secretary/Treasurer (1)

Martha Goodall, RN

Inland Empire Nurses Association - Mead

Education: Associate Degree in Nursing, Spokane Community College. Position: Registered Nurse Critical Care ICU, Proviedence Holy Family Hospital. Present Office: WSNA Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare Secretary/Treasurer. Past Offices: Member, WSNA Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare; treasurer, IENA. Awards, Honors, Service: Holy Family Nurse of the Year, Holy Family Employee of the Year for collaboration; 2016 Outstanding Local Unit Chairperson. Habitat for Humanity.

“I have a long history of being involved in the work of our union. Starting at the local unit chair level. I am currently on the E&GW as secretary/treasurer and sit on the finance committee. My ongoing goal is to make our work both satisfying and safe.”

Member At-Large (7)

Francesca Castillo, RN, AAS

Inland Empire Nurses Association - Spokane

Education: AAS, Spokane Community College Nursing Program. Position: Staff nurse, St. Luke’s Rehabilitation Insititute. Current Office: WSNA Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare, member at large; IENA vice president; Chair, St. Luke’s Local Unit, WSNA first time contract negotiator and organizer. Awards, Honors, Service: Compassion award nominee; Member of Spokane Alliance.

“We need state level representation on east side, and I would like to continue with this endeavor. My strengths are the continued representation for the east side of the state bringing ideas to the cabinet.”

Diane Cantu, RN

District 6 - Yakima

Education: Associate of science degree RN. Employer: Position: Charge RN in ER, Astria Toppenish Hospital. Past Positions: 9 years as CNA and Medical interpreter at Astria Sunnyside Hospital.

Edna P. Cortez

King County Nurses Association - Edmonds

Education: Rockford Memorial School of Nursing. Position: RN – Recovery PACU, Seattle Children’s Hospital. Past Positions: PICU, NICU, CVICU, ALNW, ED, UC. Current Office: WSNA Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare. KCNA Nominating Committee. Past Offices: KCNA Board of Directors. Awards, Honors, Service: Daisy Award recipient (Seattle Children’s Hosp).

“I have been a member of WSNA since 1993 and started at Seattle Children’s hospital in 1990. I am proud to be a member of my professional state organization. I am just as proud to be a registered nurse! WSNA has taught me and helped me to be a better advocate for myself, my coworkers and for my patients.”

Ruby Crisostomo Tan, BSN, RN

King County Nurses Association - Maple Valley

Education: BSN, University of Washington. Position: Acute Inpatient Dialysis Nurse, Fresenius. Past Positions: Tele Neuro Med Surg, RN. Awards, Honors, Service: UW Dean’s List 2015-16, Pierce College and Green River Community College Honors Awards

“I would like to serve WSNA throughout the organization and in leadership. I have exceptional focus, dependability, integrity, tact, unselfishness, knowledge, loyalty, enthusiasm, ability to influence others, good leadership, and courage.”

Crystal Kosik, BSN, RN

District 28 - Selah

Education: BSN, Washington State University. Position: Labor and Delivery RNC, Astria Toppenish Hospital. Past Position: Labor and Delivery High Risk Obstetrics at Oregon Health and Science University.

“I am passionate about bringing strength to the WSNA. I know that in order to negotiate fair contracts we must have strong voices within this association. I have worked for several different union hospitals during my career and therefore have knowledge about the way in which things get negotiated. I know that strong voices are the key to accomplishing great things.”

Janet Stewart, BSN, RN

Pierce County Nurses Association - Tacoma

Education: BS, Pacific Lutheran University. Position: Staff Nurse and Break Relief Nurse – Critical Care, St. Joseph Medical Center Tacoma. Past Positions: RN Civilian & Military US Army Nurse Corps. Present Office: WSNA Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare member.

“It has been a meaningful and fulfilling to be a WSNA leader and officer at my local unit where I can help represent nurses, serve on the negotiations team, and help strengthen and support our bargaining unit. I have enjoyed serving on the WSNA Cabinet for two years and would like to continue working to serve nurses in this state level leadership role. I am hardworking, honest, dedicated and compassionate. I hope you will allow me to continue to serve you.”

ANA Membership Assembly 2019-21 Delegates and Alternates (13)

• Ingrid Anderson, Dist. #2, Snoqualmie
• Suzanne Baek, Dist. #2, Federal Way
• Julia Barcott, Dist. #6, Yakima
• Amy Boultinghouse, SW Region, Castle Rock
• Jan Bussert, Dist. #2, Vashon
• Edna Cortez, Dist. #2, Lynnwood
• Chuck Cumiskey, Dist. #13, Olympia
• Julie Drake, Dist. #2, Bothell
• Elizabeth Epsy, NW Region, Bellingham
• Justin Gill, Dist. #3, Gig Harbor
• Sue Glass, Dist. #4, Spokane
• Martha Goodall, Dist. #4, Mead
• Jennifer Graves, Dist. #2, Seattle
• John Gustafson, Dist. #3, Poulsbo
• Angela Hansen, NW Region, Oak Harbor
• Judy Huntington, Dist. #2, Kent
• Vesna Jovanovich, Dist. #2, Mercer Island
• Crystal Kosik, Dist. #28, Selah
• Judi Lyons, Dist. #18, Ellensburg
• Mikey Anne O’Sullivan, Dist. #4, Spokane
• Gwen Parrick, NW Region, Freeland
• Jennifer Reinhardt, Dist. #3, Bonney Lake
• Bernadette Reyes, Dist. #2, Lynnwood
• Suzanne Scott, Dist. #13, Lacey
• Heather Stephen Selby, Dist. #2, Renton
• Erin Stevenson, NW Region, Bellingham
• Janet Stewart, Dist. #3 Tacoma
• Anita Stull, Dist. #2, Seattle
• Lynnette Vehrs, Dist. #4, Spokane
• Rosa Young, Dist. #2, Seattle

Delegates to the 2020 AFT Convention (20)

• Susanna Avery, Dist. #2, Seattle
• Suzanne Baek, Dist. #2, Federal Way
• Julia Barcott, Dist. #6, Yakima
• Edna Cortez, Dist. #2 Lynnwood
• Ruby Crisostomo Tan, Dist. #3
• Julie Drake, Dist. #2, Bothell
• Elizabeth Epsy, NW Region, Bellingham
• Martha Goodall, Dist. #4, Spokane
• Crystal Kosik, Dist. #28, Selah
• Judi Lyons, Dist. #18, Ellensburg
• Clarise Mahler, Dist. #2, Duvall
• Sue Munro, Dist. #2, Seattle
• Gwen Parrick, NW Region, Freeland
• Bernadette Reyes, Dist. #2, Lynnwood
• Janet Stewart, Dist. #3, Tacoma
• Anita Stull, Dist. #2, Seattle