I want to send a warm welcome to Shawn Mork, (sreed@wsna.org) who will be replacing me as your WSNA Nurse Representative, effective this week.

Shawn has primarily worked in emergency medicine and behavioral health. She has been a dedicated ED charge nurse, an ANM for Providence in adult and geriatric psychiatric inpatient units, an acute care case manager, and is still a practicing forensic nurse. She graduated nursing school in Pennsylvania as a second career after a career in sales and bid work as a supplier to the United Nations.

Her union background prior to joining WSNA as staff was primarily in a coalition union with SEIU1199NW, however WSNA was her union of choice to work for as she believes that nurses are best suited to represent and advocate for other nurses. She understands the pressures you are under as nurses, union officers, and unit reps as she has been in a role very similar to a WSNA officer. She is excited to work with you all to build your bargaining unit and advocate for nurses and nursing issues. Her career has been built around advocacy for marginalized populations and believes heavily in the power of engaged nurses. As she often says, “I am a unionist to my core, I love labor history and I firmly believe that the next 10 years will be a great period for the labor movement and union density.”

Having been your Nurse Representative for over 16 years, I am looking forward to my new role at WSNA as the Resource Nurse Representative. It’s very likely our paths will cross again. I just want you all to know that I have enjoyed my tenure at CWH. When we were bargaining our most recent contract, I was amazed at the vast history of wins over the years. It has been an honor serving you.

Other Local Unit Changes

Amy Yarbrough has stepped down as grievance officer; however, we are excited to welcome Jasmine Hutchinson into the role.

Nick Jackson has also stepped down as Co-Chair. Paul Stamilio is moving into the Co-Chair position.

In Solidarity,
Carmen Garrison, BSN, RN
cgarrison@wsna.org