Every three years, after successful contract negotiations, we elect the officers who represent St. Joe’s nurses. Strong, engaged leadership builds a stronger union, and passionate nurses like you are the backbone of our collective power. Remember: YOU are the Union. Every victory—from wage increases to safer staffing—has been won through our collective action and solidarity.

If you’re a WSNA member in good standing, you’re eligible to run for office. This is your chance to lead and make a difference. Nominations are now open and will close on 1/19/25. We encourage every interested nurse to step up! The elected positions include:

• Two Co-Chairs
• Secretary
• Treasurer
• Membership Coordinator
• Grievance Officers

This year, we’re considering adding a Social Media Officer to amplify our union’s message. For more details on officer duties and election rules, please review the Local Unit Rules.

A Special Thank You to Sally Budack

Sally Budack has been an exemplary union leader since joining SJMC in 1990. Over her 25 years in SADU, she’s served as secretary, grievance officer, bargaining team member, and staffing committee member, leaving a lasting impact on nurses, patients, and the community. As she prepares to retire, we celebrate her incredible contributions:

• 1995: RONA Nurse of the Year
• Advocated for pedestrian safety: Secured crosswalks on J Street and a no-turn-on-red policy, enhancing safety for staff and patients.
• 2008: Founding member of the Hospital Staffing Committee and creator of the ADO process, which led to state-mandated improvements.
• 2008: WSNA Rising Star Award recipient
• 2008-Present: Mandatory Break OEHSC Chair
• 2023: WSNA Excellence in Practice Award recipient

Thank you, Sally, for your unwavering dedication. You’ve left an indelible mark, and you will be deeply missed.

A Special Thanks to Emily Nollmeyer

Emily Nollmeyer, our current co-chair, has decided not to run for re-election. During her tenure, Emily:

• Led major improvements to the hospital staffing committee
• Helped secure contracts with double-digit wage growth
• Fought for fair compensation for donning and doffing, culminating in a $500,000 settlement for FBC nurses

Thank you, Emily, for your leadership and tireless advocacy!

Donning and Doffing Settlement Updates

Nurses impacted by the D&D settlement will soon receive detailed information via email and postal mail regarding their payouts and disbursement procedures. Please ensure your contact information is up to date. For questions, contact your Nurse Representative at Jrichardson@WSNA.org.

Wage Increases Effective 1/5/25

The new wage scales, differentials, and premiums took effect on 1/5/25 and will be reflected in the 1/24/25 paycheck. The $1,300 ratification bonus (pro-rated by FTE) will also be paid on that date. (We previously indicated in error that the bonus  amount would be $1,500. $1,300 is the corrected amount.) Check your pay stubs to ensure your increases are correctly applied.

International Experience Re-Step Process

Over two dozen nurses have submitted their international experience to WSNA, and we expect this to result in step increases- some as high as 8 steps! If you have international RN experience or know a nurse who does, there’s a six-month window to submit this information. Contact your Nurse Representative at Jrichardson@WSNA.org for assistance.

Together, we’re building a stronger, more united future. Let’s keep up the momentum and make our voices heard!

Questions? Contact one of your current officers or WSNA Nurse Representative Jared Richardson, jrichardson@wsna.org.

In solidarity,
Emily Nollmeyer, Co-Chair
Carina Price, Co-Chair
Matthew McGuire, Treasurer
Sally Budack, Co-Secretary
Shannon Suchland, Co-Secretary
Yunna Flenord, Grievance Officer
Shelly Mead, Grievance Officer
Teresa Kindell, Membership Coordinator