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SPRING/SUMMER 2021
THE WASHINGTON
NURSE MAGAZINE VOLUME 51, NO. 2
/
A PUBLICATION OF THE WASHINGTON STATE NURSES ASSOCIATION
THE WASHINGTON NURSE Biennial Report WSNA elections 2021 Washington State Nurses Convention VOLUME 51, NO. 2 SPRING/SUMMER 2021
WASHINGTON STATE QUITLINE
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Why I give...
“I believe in supporting
the WSNA-PAC so that
we can advocate for
candidates who will
go to Olympia and
advocate for nurses
and patients.”
— Clarise Mahler, RN
Learn more about WSNA-PAC
and make your contribution at
wsna.org/pac
ARE YOU TAKING
ADVANTAGE OF THESE
MEMBER BENEFITS?
Savings of up to
40% on general dentistry and
Significant discounts on
35% on specialty dentistry
ANCC certification
WSNA members are eligible to apply for
Legal and identity theft the $2,500 Healthcare Partners Fund
protection at a reduced rate scholarship and to receive a 5% discount on
tuition for four terms when enrolled in one of
many nursing-related programs
WSNA members have access to these and many
other benefits through WSNA, ANA and AFT.*
Learn more at wsna.org/membership/benefits.
* AFT benefits apply only for those members who are
represented by WSNA for collective bargaining
OUR
STRENGTH
COMES FROM
EACH
OTHER
2021 Washington State Nurses Convention
Speakers
Elections and appointments
2021 Resolution: Supporting Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
PAGE 8
SPRING/SUMMER 2021
NURSING PRACTICE
2019-21 BIENNIAL REPORT 62 Accepting constructive
criticism
FRONT
63 New online courses help you
5 Letter from the President 26 Introduction 54 Elected and earn CNE and enhance your
appointed officers professional competency
6 News briefs 28 Strategic priorities
55 Staff organization chart 64 Nurses’ guide to mental
6 Calendar 30 Health access
56 Affiliations and related health support services
32 Safe staffing organizations
CONVENTION
36 Nursing practice IN MEMORIAM
58 Central Washington
8 Our strength comes Region Nurses
from each other 38 Action on 2019 66 Joan Therese Garner
resolutions Association
10 Featuring...
40 Quality and safety 58 Inland Empire Nurses REGIONAL EVENTS
12 Meet the candidates Association
for 2021 elections 45 Membership growth 67 King County Nurses
and engagement 59 King County Nurses Association
13 How to vote for elected offices Association
48 Occupational and 67 Rainier Olympic Nurses
21 Call for appointments environmental health 59 Northwest Region Association
Nurses Association
22 2021 WSNA resolution: 49 Association vitality
60 Rainier Olympic MEMBERS AND STAFF
Supporting Diversity,
50 Statements on systemic Nurses Association
PHOTOS COVER AND THIS PAGE: BEN TILDEN
Equity and Inclusion 68 Kyla Arama delivers life-
racism and health equity saving care in West Africa
24 Why I give: WSNF donors 61 Southwest Region
are stepping up to support 52 Where your dues go Nurses Association 70 WSNA staff updates
nurses in need
53 Volunteer
organization chart
SPRING/SUMMER 2021 THE WASHINGTON NURSE 3
VO LU M E 52 , I S SU E 2 • S P R I N G/SU M M E R 20 21 A DV E RT I S I N G C O N T R I B U TO R G U I D E L I N E S DESIGNED AND PRINTED IN
WAS H I N GTO N STAT E
Copyright 2021, WSNA. No part of this publication Information on advertising WSNA welcomes the submission
may be reproduced without permission. rates may be obtained from the of manuscripts and artwork. Executive Editor
The Washington Nurse (ISSN# 0734-5666) is WSNA website or by contacting Please contact Ruth Schubert Sally Watkins
published by the Washington State Nurses Association Martin Hsiung at (206) 575-7979. at rschubert@wsna.org with
and distributed as a benefit of membership to all Editor
Advertising is accepted on a submissions, article ideas or
WSNA members. A member subscription rate of $10 first-come, first-served basis for further questions. It is not Jennifer Carson
per year is included in WSNA membership dues. The preferred positions depending the policy of WSNA to pay for Designer
institutional subscription rate is $30 per year (Canada/ on space availability. WSNA articles or artwork.
Mexico: US$36 per year; foreign: US$49 per year). Ben Tilden
reserves the right to reject
The information in this magazine is for the benefit advertising. Paid advertisements
of WSNA members. The Washington Nurse provides in The Washington Nurse do
a forum for members of all specialties and interests not necessarily reflect the
to express their opinions. Opinions expressed in endorsement of WSNA members,
the magazine are the responsibility of the authors staff or the organization.
and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the
officers or membership of WSNA unless so stated.
STA F F
575 Andover Park West
Executive Director Senior Web and Design Specialist Zachary Seikel
Suite 101
Seattle, WA 98188 Sally Watkins, PhD, RN Ben Tilden
Nurse Organizers
(206) 575-7979 Executive Assistant Labor and Operations Tara Barnes, RN
wsna@wsna.org Mary Mainville Executive Officer Will Nesper, RN
Visit our website at wsna.org
wsna.org. Anne Tan Piazza, MBA Ryan Rosenkranz, BSN, RN, CCRN
Administrative Assistants
Joline Railey Director of Labor and General Counsel and Director
Jeremy Raughton Organizing Strategies of Collective Bargaining
B OA R D O F D I R ECTO RS Gerard Friesz Michael Sanderson
Receptionist
Matty Whitman Associate Director of Labor Counsel
President Labor Advocacy Pamela Chandran
Lynnette Vehrs, MN, RN (Spokane) Office Manager Jayson Dick, MBA, BSN, RN Jacob Harksen
Martin Hsiung
Vice President Nurse Representatives Senior Labor Consultant
Jennifer A. Graves, RN (Seattle) Director of Finance Brenda Balogh, RN Christine Watts, MN, RN
Mary Reed Sue Dunlap, RN
Secretary / Treasurer
Travis Elmore, BSN, RN, RN-BC Chief General Counsel
Vee Sutherlin, MSN, RN, MEd (Nine Mile Falls) Accounting Specialist
Sara Frey, JD, BSN, RN Timothy Sears
Hue Tran
Chair, Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare
Barbara Friesen, BSN, RN Paralegal
Julia Barcott, RN (Yakima) Finance Program Manager
Carmen Garrison, BSN, RN Jeanna Te-LaCevita
Patrick McGraw
Chair, Legislative and Health Policy Council Mara Kieval, BSN, RN
Strategic Researcher
Justin Gill, DNP, ARNP, RN (Gig Harbor) Membership Specialist Sydne James, BSN, RN
Ian Mikusko
Katie Parrish Michelle Moore, BSN, RN, IBCLC
Chair, Professional Nursing and Health Care Council
Bret Percival, RN Director of Nursing Practice
Chuck Cumiskey, MBA, BSN, RN (Olympia) Membership Associates
Shawn Reed, RN Gloria Brigham, EdD, MN, RN
Kelly King
Directors-at-Large Laurie Robinson, RN
Anna Murray Education Director
Christina Bradley, MSN, RN (Tacoma) Samuel Scholl, BSN, RN
Shastie Steinshouer Megan Kilpatrick, MSN,
Susan Glass, MS, RN (Spokane) Jaclyn Smedley, BSN, RN ARNP-CNS, AOCNS
Adam Halvorsen, BSN, RN (Richland) Director of Marketing and Janet Stewart, RN
Rosa Young, MSN, RN, MPA (Seattle) Communications Director of Public Affairs
Hanna Welander, BSN, RN
Ruth Schubert Jennifer Muhm, MPA
Ed Zercher, BSN, RN
Marketing and Communications Public Affairs Associate Director
Resource Nurse Representative
Program Manager Katharine Weiss, MPA
Terri Williams, MS, RN
Jennifer Carson
Organizers
Digital Media Specialist
Crystal Doll
Matthew Vivion
Anne Mansfield
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
I ATTENDED MY FIRST WSNA CONVENTION IN SEATTLE
in 1981. At the time, I was working in Tacoma in an inpatient
psychiatric unit — my first job out of nursing school. I heard
about the convention because my facility was represented
by WSNA for collective bargaining. It was from that gath-
ering that I knew I wanted to be a part of this association.
The convention was dynamic and full of energy. The
speakers’ topics were innovative and challenging. Atten-
dance was impressive, and I was exposed to “movers and
shakers” in the world of health care. I met nurses from all
over the state; it was the first time I started networking. This
was helpful in gathering information about prospective
facilities where I was interested in working.
In 1981, Judy Huntington was the president of WSNA. It was amazing how well that woman
could speak! I recently visited with Judy to share memories of that convention 40 years ago. After
rereading the speech she gave to nurses in 1981, Judy exclaimed, “Oh yes, it was a busy time!”
One of the issues brought forward to the House of Delegates (now known as the General
Assembly) was about the entry into practice: Were we setting our goals for the RN entry level to be
the baccalaureate degree or the associate degree? Today, we have come a long way on this issue.
In 2019, the Washington Center for Nursing reported that 58.9% of practicing RNs statewide have
BSN degrees. WSNA began advocating streamlining the process of AD-to-BSN education years ago.
Then and now, the Washington State Nurses Convention is a time to come together and address
the greatest challenges of the time and set a course for the future. As Judy said in her 1981 speech,
“As individuals, it is impossible to monitor and respond to all the challenges and changes impacting
us daily. Yet, the very economy and survival of our profession demands that we do. It is through
our nursing associations and our united efforts that we have the greatest potential for power
and influence.”
At this year’s Convention, taking place April 28–29, we will zero in on the vital issues of today.
We’ll consider the Board resolution on diversity, equity and inclusion and have Dr. Ben Danielson
speaking about creating a culture of anti-racism in health care. Keynote speakers and panelists
will address the experience and lessons of the COVID-19 crisis on nursing. Just as importantly,
we’ll hear about cultivating kindness — something we all need right now after what we’ve been
through in 2020!
Yes, it will be a virtual meeting, but that will not take away the joy of coming together, sharing
stories and advocating for all of us! Our speakers and agenda are vibrant and interesting, and we
are working to instill a sense that we’re all coming together to support each other and celebrate our
accomplishments. The Washington State Nurses Convention will not be a disappointment.
I look forward to (virtually) seeing you all April 28 and 29!
Lynnette Vehrs, MN, RN
WSNA President
PHOTO: MERYL SCHENKER
SPRING/SUMMER 2021 THE WASHINGTON NURSE 5
NEWS BRIEFS • CALENDAR
NEWS BRIEFS
WELCOME
CALENDAR
Welcome Pacific-Northwest APRIL 2021
Chinese Nurses Association as a
28-29 Washington State
Nurses Convention
new organizational affiliate 29 Elections – deadline
for nominations
wsna is excited to announce its newest organizational affiliate, the Pacific-Northwest MAY 2021
Chinese Nurses Association (PCNA). PCNA is committed to uniting and celebrating
11 Elections – deadline
nursing among the Chinese American nursing community — aiming to establish a to mail ballots
platform for its members to make connections and exchange career resources, as
17 Legislative & Health
well as diversify future nursing workforce and improve minority health status. Policy Council
Our new partnership with PCNA will allow us to incorporate more diverse voices
31 Memorial Day – office closed
and perspectives into our work of advocating for all nurses in Washington state.
The WSNA Board of Directors created the organizational affiliate program to
JUNE 2021
bring together the expertise and voices of nursing. Together, we more effectively
advocate for the varied needs of nurses and the future of the profession. 1 Education Steering
The WSNA Board grants organizational affiliate status to organizations of regis- Committee
tered nurses that meet certain criteria, including having a formal organizational 7 Legislative and Health
Policy Council
structure and established formal goals. Our organizational affiliates are represented
in the WSNA General Assembly, have a voting seat on the Professional Nursing and 8 Elections – ballot tabulation
Health Care Council, and are entitled to submit the names of qualified registered 10 Nominating and
nurse representatives for appointment to ad hoc groups and task forces. ■ Search Committee
18 ANA Membership Assembly
25 Finance and Executive
Committee
nurse or thank the entire nursing wages, hours and working
Bloodworks Northwest profession. Appointments (and conditions of bargaining unit
to hold “Thank a masks) are required to give members across the state. JULY 2021
Nurse” blood drive blood. Congratulations to the 5 Independence
during Nurses Week BWNW is an independent, Spokane Regional Health Day – office closed
Bloodworks Northwest (BWNW) non-profit organization that has District, Seattle/King County
will honor Washington’s nurses provided a safe, lifesaving blood Public Health – Staff, Seattle/
supply to 95% of hospitals in the King County Health – Super- AUGUST 2021
with a “Thank a Nurse” Virtual
Blood Drive during Nurses Pacific Northwest for over 70 visors and Whatcom County
TBD Board of Directors
Week, May 6 to 12. Every year years. For more information, visit Health Depar tment on
during Nurses Week, nurses are bloodworksnw.org. ■ negotiating and ratifying
honored for the vital role they successor agreements. In SEPTEMBER 2021
play in the health and well-being addition, congratulations go
6 Labor Day – office closed
of communities. This year, it’s Local Units continue to out to members at PeaceHealth
United General Medical Center
even more important to honor negotiate agreements for ratifying an agreement that
nurses’ life-saving contributions during the pandemic extends contract coverage for
OCTOBER 2021
during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Please encourage members During the COVID-19 pandemic, RN case managers who recently 7 Constituent
of your personal and profes- WSNA Local Unit leaders and voted to join WSNA. Representative Council
sional networks to donate blood negotiating team members For information about your
during Nurses Week using the continue to meet with manage- Local Unit, visit wsna.org/union/
donor code NURS to honor a ment to negotiate successor local-units. ■
agreements that address the
6 THE WASHINGTON NURSE SPRING/SUMMER 2021
NEWS BRIEFS
FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
ANA launches National Commission Dear WSNA members,
to Address Racism in Nursing
After much thought and many sleepless
In January, leading nursing organizations National Black Nurses Association (NBNA),
convened for the inaugural meeting National Coalition of Ethnic Minority Nurse nights, I decided to retire and resign my
to launch the National Commission to Associations (NCEMNA) and National Asso- position as WSNA’s executive director
Address Racism in Nursing (the Commis- ciation of Hispanic Nurses (NAHN). The by the beginning of October 2021.
sion). The Commission will examine the Commission members and organizations I notified the WSNA Board of Directors,
issue of racism within nursing nation- represent a broad continuum of nursing
wide and describe the impact on nurses, practice, ethnically diverse groups and as well as WSNA staff, of this decision
patients, communities and health care regions across the country. in November. I provided a year’s notice
systems to motivate all nurses to confront WSNA is part of the ANA Western to give the board ample time to engage
systemic racism. Region of Constituent and State Nurses in a national search and to be able to
The Commission is being led by the Associations and will be contributing to
American Nurses Association (ANA), the Commission. ■
assist with a smooth transition as the
next executive director is selected.
By October 2021, I will have been
in this role for almost five years and will
have practiced as a registered nurse
for more than 45 years. It has been
Congratulations to 2020 an awesome experience and quite
Nurse of the Year award winners the journey! From my perspective, no
career could be more fulfilling. I have
in december , March of Dimes honored 18 nurses in Washington state
never been bored! I am very proud of
with 2020 Nurse of the Year awards. These annual awards are given
all we have accomplished and sincerely
to extraordinary nurses in all areas of the nursing profession across
the state.
look forward to being able to stay
WSNA is proud to recognize three of our members who received involved in different capacities.
a 2020 Nurse of the Year award: Thank you for the opportunity to
serve WSNA as the executive director.
Crystal Almazan, RN
MULTICARE TACOMA GENERAL HOSPITAL
Crystal received the Clinical Care award, which is given
to nurses who demonstrate excellence in delivering Sally Watkins, PhD, RN
care directly to patients in any clinical setting. Executive Director
Chad Markward, RN
SEATTLE CHILDREN’S
Chad received the Behavioral Health
award, which is given to nurses who work in
mental health and addictive services.
Courtney Pittman, BSN, RN
EVERGREENHEALTH
Courtney received the Emergency award, which
is given to nurses who work in emergency
rooms, flight services or ambulance services.
Candidates for Nurse of the Year awards are nominated by their
colleagues. If you’d like to nominate a fellow nurse for a 2021 Nurse
of the Year award, visit nurseoftheyear.marchofdimes.org to learn
more. Nominations are scheduled to open in May. ■
SPRING/SUMMER 2021 THE WASHINGTON NURSE 7
CONVENTION
OUR STRENGTH
COMES FROM
EACH OTHER
In 2019, the World Health Organi- as the Year of the Nurse for other
zation named 2020 as the Inter- reasons: the innumerable and
national Year of the Nurse and enormous sacrifices nurses
Midwife — meant to celebrate the have made during the COVID-19
200th birthday of Florence Night- pandemic.
Washington State Nurses Convention ingale and highlight the impor- Nurses do what nobody else
Online April 28-29, 2021 tance of nurses and midwives. will do, in ways nobody else can
But 2020 widely became known do, in spite of all we go through.
8 THE WASHINGTON NURSE SPRING/SUMMER 2021CONVENTION
We are strong, but we need each In the pages that follow, you’ll learn We look forward to
other to help us keep going. During more about our virtual 2021 Washington seeing you on our
this year’s Washington State Nurses State Nurses Convention. By attending computer screens
Convention, we hope nurses across this year’s convention, we hope you will April 28 and 29.
Washington state will feel connected to feel better equipped to lead change,
and supported by others who have also improve health and just keep going
felt the heavy weight of the pandemic in 2021.
on their shoulders.
SPRING/SUMMER 2021 THE WASHINGTON NURSE 9CONVENTION | SPEAKERS
FEATURING…
Craig Clapper, PE, CMQ/OE Linda Cohen
Safety expert Professional speaker and consultant
Craig Clapper is a consulting engineer Linda Cohen works with
who has 30 years of experience associations and leaders to improve
improving reliability in power, transpor- communication, boost teamwork
tation, manufacturing and health care. and improve the client experience
He specializes in failure analysis, event through further engagement in acts
analysis, reliability improvement and of kindness. Linda’s first book, “1,000
safety culture improvements. Mitzvahs: How Small Acts of Kindness
Prior to entering private practice, Can Heal, Inspire and Change Your
Craig worked for multiple consulting Life,” is an inspirational guide to a life
companies, including Healthcare of gratitude.
Performance Improvement (HPI),
Performance Improvement Interna-
tional, and Failure Prevention Inc (FPI).
Ben Danielson, MD Roxanne Filson, MBA
Clinical Professor, Department of Program Manager, Health Care Division,
Pediatrics, University of Washington Aon, Affinity Insurance Services, Inc.
Dr. Ben Danielson is a pediatrician and Roxanne Filson is a program manager
advocate for the health and well-being in the health care division of Aon’s
of children and families with low Affinity Insurance Services, Inc. —
incomes. For 20 years, he served as the where she works with more than 70
medical director of Seattle Children’s national, state and specialty health
Odessa Brown Children’s Clinic — a care professional organizations.
post he resigned from in November Roxanne has been part of the Affinity
2020 to protest what he identified as team for eight years and frequently
racist and discriminatory practices presents at professional organization
at Seattle Children’s. He is currently a meetings on health care risk
clinical professor of pediatrics at the management and other insurance-
University of Washington. related topics.
CONVENTION KEY DETAILS
Suzanne Gordon
Journalist and author
Suzanne Gordon is an award-winning WHEN CNE
journalist and author who writes April 28-29, 2021 Earn up to 8.25 CNEs. This is a
about health care delivery and health live, virtual event and live partici-
care systems and patient safety. She WHERE pation is required to obtain CNE.
has published several books about Online. Attendees will receive an
nursing’s contribution to health care. SPEAKERS
access link via email prior to the
Suzanne coined the term first day of the convention. To learn more about our
“Team Intelligence” to describe the presentations and speakers,
constellation of skills and knowledge AGENDA visit nurseconventionwa.org.
needed to build the kind of teams upon Visit nurseconventionwa.org to
which patient safety depends. view the full convention agenda.
10 THE WASHINGTON NURSE SPRING/SUMMER 2021CONVENTION | SPEAKERS
Jennifer Graves, MS, RN Katie Haerling, PhD, RN, CHSE
Vice President, Washington Associate Professor, University
State Nurses Association of Washington – Tacoma
Jennifer Graves has been a proud Katie Haerling is an associate professor
member of the health care community at the University of Washington
in the Pacific Northwest for her Tacoma’s School of Nursing and
entire, multi-decade career. Before Healthcare Leadership. Katie’s recent
joining Kaiser Permanente as the Vice research includes examining student
President for Quality and Safety in and faculty experiences debriefing
both the Northwest and Washington after virtual simulation activities and
Markets and serving as the Regional comparing the cost-effectiveness
Chief Nursing Executive in Washington, of virtual and mannequin-based
Jennifer was the Senior Vice President simulation activities.
for Patient Safety and Quality at the
Washington State Hospital Association.
Jennifer Muhm Cheryl Peterson, MSN, RN
Director of Public Affairs, Washington Vice President for Nursing Programs,
State Nurses Association American Nurses Association
Jennifer Muhm has worked in public Cheryl Peterson is the Vice President
affairs for 20 years, specializing in of Nursing Programs at the American
government relations and political Nurses Association. In this role,
communications. In her role as she provides senior leadership to
Director of Public Affairs for WSNA, departments responsible for guiding
Jennifer led efforts to pass the Rest policy development, as well as
Breaks and Overtime Protection and advises the ANA CEO, president and
Workplace Violence bills in 2019. She membership on the full range of policy
has served as a key liaison with the and practice issues facing the nursing
Governor’s Office and other state profession.
agencies throughout the COVID-19
crisis, fighting for the protections and
supports nurses need.
Molly Voris
Special Advisor for Pandemic Health
PRICING REGISTRATION Response and Senior Policy Advisor for
Public Health and Health Care, Office of
$100 Standard rate Visit nurseconventionwa.org Washington State Governor Jay Inslee
to register online. Registration
$50 WSNA members using
ANA Premier Member
closes at 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Molly Voris is the Special Advisor
April 25. for Pandemic Health Response and
discount code ANA50
WSNA members, be sure to the Senior Policy Advisor for Public
TECHNICAL RECOMMENDATIONS use your ANA Premier Member Health and Health Care for Washington
discount code (look for the Governor Jay Inslee. In these roles, she
To ensure the best possible virtual “Enter promo code” link on the
experience, we recommend advises the governor on the state’s
registration form) to get the
accessing the convention on a discounted registration rate. COVID-19 health response, leads policy
desktop or tablet. development and provides guidance
on health care issues.
SPRING/SUMMER 2021 THE WASHINGTON NURSE 11CONVENTION | CANDIDATES FOR ELECTION
ON THE BALLOT BOARD OF DIRECTORS care system, and this can also be done
through the legislative process. I have
Meet the
been a member of the Washington
PRESIDENT State Universal Health Care Work Group
from September 2019 to present. I am a
candidates for Lynnette Vehrs, MN, RN
strong advocate for nurses and patients.
I am asking for your vote to elect me to
2021 elections
Inland Empire Nurses Association
Spokane a second term as your WSNA President.”
Education: Baccalaureate, Washington
The WSNA Nominations / Search Committee and the State University; Master’s, Washington State
University. Position: Retired; volunteering VICE PRESIDENT
Economic and General Welfare (E&GW) Nominating / at homeless medical clinic. Present office:
Search Committee thank all of the nurses who have WSNA President. Past office: Legislative and
chosen to run for elected office this year. WSNA is Health Policy Council — eight years total with Justin Gill, DNP, NP
four of the years as the chairwoman; Inland Northwest Regional Nurses Association
a member-driven organization; YOU are WSNA, and Empire Nurses Association Board of Directors Bothell
volunteer, elected leaders like you are essential to and President. Certifications, honors and Education: ADN, Whatcom Community
keeping members’ voices at the forefront. awards: Lifetime Achievement Award for College; DNP, Yale University. Position: Nurse
IENA. Professional memberships: ANA/WSNA/
All members featured in these pages have Practitioner, Providence Medical Group. Prior
IENA, League of Women Voters, Health Care positions: Nurse Practitioner, CHI Franciscan;
consented to run for WSNA elected offices (as of for All-WA. Nurse Practitioner, Skagit Regional health;
February 2021) and will be included on the ballot. Registered Nurse, PeaceHealth & Skagit Valley
“I envision Washington State Nurses
Elections will take place by secret mail ballot shortly Hospital PCU/Cardiac. Present office: Chair,
Association as an organization of Legislative and Health Policy Council. Past
following the conclusion of the 2021 Washington State power and influence. This was well office: Council Member, Legislative and Health
Nurses Convention. demonstrated at the beginning and Policy Council; ANA-PAC Board of Trustees;
during the COVID pandemic. It is ANA Presidential Endorsement Advisory
amazing how much has changed in a Taskforce Certifications. Certifications, honors
It’s not too late to self-declare year. Every step of the way, WSNA has
and awards: ANA Nurse Advocate Award 2014;
or be nominated! been there working closely with the
Whatcom Community College Foundation
Board (2021). Professional memberships:
Members who want to self-declare their candidacy Governor’s Office, the Department of ANA, WSNA, ARNPs United of Washington State.
for an elected office, or express interest in appointed Health, Washington State Public Health
positions, may still do so by submitting a Consent to along with multiple hospitals and clinics. “As a member of WSNA since becoming
Serve form by 5 p.m. on April 28 (the day of General The entire focus was advocating for a registered nurse, I feel that WSNA has
our nurses and the patients they care been a major piece of my professional
Assembly). Consent to Serve forms may be submitted
for. We have opened our minds and identity. I have had the opportunity to
electronically or via postal mail. For more information serve as a member and chair of the
and to submit a form, visit wsna.org/serve. Nomina- hearts to the discrimination of people
of color. We are listening and building Legislative and Health Policy Council. I
tions will also be accepted during our virtual General believe that nursing needs to be present
new pathways to be diverse, inclusive
Assembly. Those nominated during General Assembly and equitable with our population of at every policy discussion at the state,
will also appear on the mailed ballot. nurses and the public we take care of. national and international level. I am
All WSNA members in good standing, whether or WSNA has Hope! We have Hope for our committed to promoting the role of
not you are represented for collective bargaining by future. We have Hope for better and nurses at every level of health care
WSNA, have the right to run for and/or be appointed safer working conditions. We have Hope delivery. I look forward to the opportu-
for the citizens of Washington state for nity to serving WSNA further through
to the WSNA Board of Directors, Councils and Commit-
patient safety laws and practice. I wish continued membership on the Board of
tees and as a WSNA delegate to the 2021-2023 Amer- Directors.”
to continue on this pathway as your
ican Nurses Association (ANA) Membership Assembly.
WSNA President. I started in Tacoma as
Only WSNA members represented for collective a psychiatric nurse, cardiac intensive
bargaining (union members) have the right to run for care, and then a skilled home care nurse
the WSNA Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare for 18 years. I retired from teaching at
and the E&GW Nominating /Search Committee, as Washington State University College
well as a delegate to the 2022 American Federation of Nursing. I have worked at all of my
of Teachers (AFT) Convention. patient care facilities under a WSNA
contract. I am a very strong supporter
of our collective bargaining agreements
and the union branch of WSNA. I am
passionate about quality health care. I
want constructive changes to our health
12 THE WASHINGTON NURSE SPRING/SUMMER 2021CONVENTION | CANDIDATES FOR ELECTION
HOW TO VOTE FOR ELECTED OFFICES
The 2021 WSNA Elections will than are eligible to be elected, Voting procedure for Cabinet on Economic and General
occur by mail ballot following that portion of your ballot will elected offices Welfare — including the Economic
the 2021 WSNA General be invalidated and will not be The process for voting by mail and General Welfare Nominating/
Assembly meeting on April 28. counted. Write-in candidates on ballot shall be in compliance with Search Committee and delegates
All eligible WSNA members* will the ballot are allowed. the WSNA bylaws and procedures to the 2022 AFT Convention.
receive a ballot via the mailing To be counted, all mail established by the WSNA Board An up-to-date list of members
address we have on file. To ballots must be returned no of Directors. running for election and their
update your mailing address, later than 4:30 p.m. June 7, 2021. All WSNA members are candidate profiles, including
visit wsna.org/membership/ Please mail your ballot early eligible to vote for elected WSNA self-declared candidates, can
update-info. to ensure it arrives at Integrity officers, members of the Board of be found at www.wsna.org/
Be sure to carefully follow Voting Systems prior to June Directors, councils and the WSNA news/2021/2021-wsna-elec-
the voting instructions enclosed 7. Ballots will be counted by Nominations/Search Committee. tions. Attendees of the virtual
with your ballot and use the Integrity Voting Systems and All members who are registered 2021 Washington State Nurses
enclosed voting envelopes. official election results declared nurses may also vote for delegates Convention may also view the
For each position listed on the on June 8, 2021. to the ANA Membership Assembly. slate of candidates during the
ballot, do NOT vote for more *In order to receive a ballot and be Only members who are convention via the online event
candidates than the total eligible to vote, you must be a duly represented for collective platform.
number eligible to be elected. accredited member of WSNA on or bargaining (union members)
If you vote for more candidates before March 28, 2021. may vote for members of the
Committee Member 2016, WSNA Delegate to WSLC
SECRETARY TREASURER DIRECTOR AT-LARGE (3 POSITIONS) 2017, AFT Delegate 2017-2018, elected Delegate to
the ANA 2020 Membership Assembly. Appointed
Attendee to the 2018 ANA Quality and Innovation
Martha Marie Goodall, ADN, RN Phoebe Dang Lim-Vuong, MSN, DNP-FNP Conference Orlando, Florida. Certifications, honors
Inland Empire Nurses Association King County Nurses Association and awards: Daisy Award at St. Joseph Medical
Mead Kent Center 2018, CMSRN, Food Service Director of Year.
Education: ADN, Spokane Community College. Education: MSN, Rush University; DNP-FNP candidate Professional memberships: WSNA, UFCW21, ANA,
Employer: Providence Holy Family Hospital. Current 2023, Johns Hopkins University; BS, Biochemistry, ONS member, Puget Sound ONS member, AMSN
Offices: Board of Directors Secretary/Treasurer, ANA University of Washington. Employer: Zoom+Care Academy of Medical Surgical Nurses.
Delegate, Providence Holy Family Hospital Local Unit Prior position: Charge Nurse, DaVita Dialysis.
Chair, Conference/Staffing Committees, Inland Honors and Awards: Clinical Nurse Leader, member
“I have been a registered nurse for 11 years
Empire Nurses Association. Certifications, honors of the Sigma Theta Tau honor society. Professional after a 30-year career managing large food
and awards: WSNA outstanding Local Unit Chair, memberships: ANA, ANNA, AANP. service operations at Boeing, Microsoft and
Habitat for Humanity Build. Professional member- the FAA and Hospitals and Restaurants. I
ships: WSNA, AFT, ANA, IENA. knew it was the right profession for me
John J. Gustafson, RN because I saw how much nurses helped my
“I have been active in WSNA since I became Rainier Olympic Nurses Association
a registered nurse. Currently I serve on Poulsbo mom who had cancer for 18 months and her
the Cabinet as Secretary/Treasurer and as last 18 days of life. The nurses helped make
Education: AAS, ADN Nursing Tacoma Community
Providence Holy Family Hospital Local Unit College. Position: Registered Nurse, Certified things better for my mom. After becoming
Chair. By being involved, I hope to help mold Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse, CHI St. Michael a nurse, I decided to lean in and learn all I
the future of nursing.” Medical Center. Prior positions: Certified Nurse could about the profession and I simply fell in
Tech and Certified Nursing Assistant, St Joseph love with WSNA. The history and the people
Medical Center; 30-year professional management are mind blowing... My eyes are wide open.
experience including dietary manager experience There is a phrase that AFT has that I heard
at Valley Medical Center and San Joaquin General
Hospital and at large food service operations at for the first time when I was a WSNA Nurse
Boeing, Microsoft and Federal Aviation Adminis- delegate in Pittsburgh (Stand up, Speak up,
tration. Past office: Cabinet member Economic, and Show up.) I realized I did that, always have.
General Welfare 2017-2019; Bargaining Team Member I also know I will continue to do it for as
2018-2019 St. Joseph Medical Center; appointed long as I live. The nursing profession means
PAC Board of Trustees 2017-Present. St. Joseph everything to me because as a bedside
Medical Center elected Grievance Officer 2016-2019,
Co-Chair of Nurse Staffing Committee, Conference nurse I get a unique opportunity every day
to do whatever I can to make things better
for the patients. At the same time, I also can
advocate for the profession by listening
and observing and helping to make things
SPRING/SUMMER 2021 THE WASHINGTON NURSE 13CONVENTION | CANDIDATES FOR ELECTION
better on a wider scale for the Nurses and allowed me to leverage my experiences to supported by WSNA and its membership to
many others. During the pandemic, our share and engage WSNA by bringing another meet the needs of Washington state nurses
hospital and my floor had two outbreaks and voice to the table for the community/public and the people we serve with both passion
I advocated for safer PPE and PAPRs with health challenges. I have a strong back- and dedication.”
success. I also reached out to my co-workers ground as an educator and policy maker that
if there were things I could do to help them. I continues to be a priority for me to remain
Martha Galvez, RNC
appreciate what UFCW21, SEIU and WSNA did informed and engaged. As an active clinician Southeast Region Nurses Association
together for us. There are future opportuni- addressing the social determinants of health Pasco
ties working together. Safe Nurse Staffing and health disparities the opportunity to Education: Associate Degree in Nursing. Position:
Matters and Nursing Complaints are Gifts and engage, dialogue, get the job done so we can Staff Nurse, Kadlec Medical Center. Current office:
opportunities to improve and as Co-Chair of get health care to all. The changes in delivery Kadlec Medical Center Local Unit Chair, WSNA-PAC
the Staffing Committee at my hospital I can of health care have moved well beyond the Trustee. Certifications, honors and awards: Certi-
reach out to nurses and ask them what they hospital as we engage in telehealth and fication in Perinatal Nursing ANCC. Professional
need to resolve a complaint. Resolutions virtual care for those most vulnerable with memberships: ANA.
matter. As a Trustee for the PAC Board, I a lens of diversity, equity and inclusiveness. “Stay involved and informed in current labor
have a say and have influence to advocate The work of WSNA is never done and it takes and nursing policies.”
for issues and legislation most important for the membership to drive our future and get
nurses. I have passion, empathy and compas- safe, quality and innovative care to all.”
sion in my soul. I will work hard during my
term to make improvements and serve the
WSNA NOMINATIONS /
profession and organization I love to the best SEARCH COMMITTEE
DIRECTOR AT-LARGE,
of my ability. I would appreciate your support STAFF NURSE (2 POSITIONS)
and vote. I will never sit on the sidelines.”
MEMBER (4 POSITIONS)
Sara Morgan Bergenholtz, RN
Heather Stephen-Selby, MSN, FNP North Central Washington Region Nurses
Susan Baek, RN
King County Nurses Association Association
King County Nurses Association
Renton Wenatchee
Federal Way
Education: ADN, Vancouver General Hospital Education: AST, Wenatchee Valley College; BSN,
Education: Kyoungki University, Inchon, Korea.
School of Nursing; MSN, Seattle University College WGU. Position: Staff Nurse, Confluence Health:
Position: Staff Nurse, Virginia Mason Medical Center.
of Nursing; AAS Business, Kwa University. Position: Central Washington Hospital, Medical-Behavioral
Prior positions: Nurse manager at St. Joseph Medical
Director Clinical Services, HealthPoint Community Health. Prior positions: LPN, Midvalley Hospital,
Center, Tacoma; House Supervisor at St. Francis
Health. Prior positions: WSNA Assistant Executive Omak WA. Certifications, honors and awards:
Hospital, Federal Way. Current office: Virginia Mason
Director of Nursing Practice and Education; Spokane COVID Vaccine Clinic (Education and administration
Local unit secretary and treasurer. Professional
Community College Student Health Director and of vaccines), volunteering at the Humane Society.
memberships: ANA.
FNP; Spokane Community College, Dean of Nursing; Professional memberships: WSNA, ANA.
Rotary Club Provider FNP; Renton Technical College,
Dean of Nursing and Allied Health; Group Health “I am passionate about increasing equal
Susan Glass, MS, RN
Family Nurse Practitioner. Certifications, honors and access to quality health care and education Inland Empire Nurses Association
awards: Faculty of the Year Renton Technical College, and supporting healthcare workers’ rights Spokane
Ethics and Human Rights WSNA, Governor’s Award and wellbeing in Washington state. In
for Innovation IBEST, Heart of HealthPoint multiple Education: BSN, Washington State University; MS
occasions.
pursuit of this, I have worked to develop and (Nursing) Arizona State University. Position: Retired.
implement a Shared Governance model at Prior positions: VA 15 years, nurse coordinator; WSU
“I have been an active member with WSNA my hospital and am currently the elected clinical faculty seven years. Present offices: BOD,
for several years as an educator, leader, Chair of the Nurse Practice Committee. Each WSNF Board President, Bylaws Committee; IENA
innovator, clinician and a former employee. of these endeavors presents the chance to treasurer and Investment Committee. Professional
memberships: ANA, Sigma Theta Tau.
I strongly believe the work of WSNA carries empower nurses to take ownership of their
the voice of all nurses whether with the practice and to promote decisions that
legislature, policies, advocacy or with the put their patients first. I have a talent for Evette Runyan, RN
media. Remaining engaged is still exciting consensus building, and as a former political Central Washington Region Nurses Association
and an honor to be part of an organization science major, I bring a well-developed Yakima
that continues to lead the nation on understanding of the legislative process Education: Yakima Valley Community College.
workplace safety, scope of practice, and to the table. I feel that now more than ever, Position: Behavior Health Charge RN, Astria
policy development that impacts health it is important to raise our voices and use Toppenish Hospital. Prior position: Astria Regional
Hospital ACU Charge RN, Preceptor. Present office:
care for those who live in our communities. our unique abilities and understanding of Astria Toppenish – Local Unit Secretary/Treasurer.
I am a passionate voice for those who are healthcare to effect change. If elected, I will Past office: Secretary/Treasurer at Astria Regional,
underserved and underrepresented in our advocate for those laws and policies directly Negotiation Committee, Nurse Practice Committee.
communities. My most recent work as an Certifications, honors and awards: Daisy Award
FNP and Director with community health has Winner 2018. Professional memberships: ANA, AFT.
14 THE WASHINGTON NURSE SPRING/SUMMER 2021CONVENTION | CANDIDATES FOR ELECTION
Brenda Shaw, BSN, MSN-Ed., RN
Inland Empire Nurses Association ADMINISTRATION RESEARCH
Spokane
Education: RN, Christ Hospital School of Nursing, Rachel Wang, MHA, BSN, RN Anne Hirsch, PhD, BSN
Cincinnati, OH; MSNEd, Western Governors King County Nurses Association King County Nurses Association
University; EdD, Liberty University. Position: Retired Seattle Seattle
Prior positions: Sacred Heart Medical Center – Staff
Nurse, Charge Nurse, Assistant Mgr. Student Mentor. Education: BSN, Seattle University; MHA, University Education: BSN, Washington State University; PhD,
(Med-Surg, ICU, Oncology, Outpatient, Cardiac of Washington. Position: NeighborCare Health, Indiana University. Position: Associate Dean for
Step-down.) Director of Nursing District: King County. Present Academic Affairs, University of Washington School of
office: PNHCC member 2017-2021. Certifications, Nursing. Prior positions: Seattle University Associate
“Motivation comes from the willingness to honors and awards: Ambulatory care board Dean; Washington State University Senior Associate
stay involved with WSNA, allowing me to stay certification. Dean/Interim Dean; Pacific Lutheran University
Associate and Interim Dean. Certifications, honors
up on current nursing trends, etc.” and awards: KCNA Shining Star Award, AAN and
Suzanne Scott, RN, MSN, NEA-BC FAANP.
Rainier Olympic Nurses Association
PROFESSIONAL NURSING Lacey
AND HEALTH CARE COUNCIL Education: Virginia Commonwealth University,
Medical College of Virginia and University of
PRACTICE
Colorado Health Sciences Center. Position: Chief
Nursing Officer, Southwest Service Area, Providence Angelica Joy Schmidt, MSN PH, BSN
CHAIR St Joseph Health. Prior position: U.S. Army Nurse King County Nurses Association
Corps. Certifications, honors and awards: Inductee, Seattle
Order of Military Medical Merit 9A proficiency desig-
Charles C. Cumiskey, MBA, BSN, RN Education: BSN, Grand Canyon University; MSN
nation (Army certified expert in nursing), ANCC Nurse
Rainier Olympic Nurses Association Public Health, Grand Canyon University. Position:
Executive, Advanced Board Certification.
Olympia Evening Care Nurse (PACU), Seattle Children’s
Hospital. Prior positions: Travel Nurse – pediatric
Education: Good Samaritan School of Nursing,
ER and PACU; RN, Phoenix Children’s Hospital ER.
Portland, OR; BSN, Saint Martin University, Lacey,
Present office: Local Unit PACU – charge nurse;
WA; MBA, University of Washington Tacoma. ETHICS AND HUMAN RIGHTS housewide Healthy Work Environment Committee
Position: Chief, Patient Logistics Center, Madigan
Chair. Certifications, honors and awards: CPEN
Army Hospital Center. Prior positions: Nursing Care
Rosa Dell Young, MSN, MPA, BSN (expired), CPN (expired). Professional memberships:
Quality Assurance Commission (NCQAC) 2001 – 2012
King County Nurses Association WSNA, ANA.
Practice Manager Commission; GroupHealth; Sisters
of Providence. Present office: Chair, Professional Seattle
Nursing and Health Care Council. Past office: Profes- Education: BSN, Seattle University; MSN, Seattle
sional Nursing and Health Care Council, 2017-2019 University; MPA, Seattle University. Position:
appointed, delegate at ANA Membership Assembly Substitute Nurse, Seattle Public Schools. Prior
2017-2019 and 2019-2021. position: Nursing Supervisor, VA Puget Sound
Healthcare System. Certifications, honors and
“It is our professional responsibly as nurses awards: Sigma Theta Tau; Served in USAFR (20+
to be involved in our professional organiza- years) Retired LTC; mentoring other young nurses.
tion. These are challenging times in health Present offices: WSNA Board Member (2 Terms),
care and in our democracy. We need to be KCNA Board, Alternate and Delegate to ANA
Membership Assembly.
shapers of our future. I’m a strong advocate
for safe staffing and patient safety. I’ve had
the fortune to be a trainer facilitator for Team Vesna Javanovich, BS, RN
STEPPS, Crucial Conversations and Arbinger King County Nurses Association
Outward Mindset, which all promote and Renton
advocate quality and evidenced-based Education: Lake Washington Institute Of Technology
communication which is key to evidence- School Of Nursing; Bachelor’s In Business Education,
based leadership. It would be an honor and Nadezda Petrovic Alfa Bk University. Position: Clinical
Manager / Quality Assurance Specialist, Harvard
privilege to serve the WSNA in any way I can Partners Health. Prior positions: KBC Zemun Medical
to serve to strengthen our profession.” Center, CRNA, ICU RN. Present office: PNHCC.
SPRING/SUMMER 2021 THE WASHINGTON NURSE 15CONVENTION | CANDIDATES FOR ELECTION
is working hard towards making positive Joan Owens, PhD, RN
EDUCATION changes towards improving diversity and Inland Empire Nurses Association
equity within our committee commitments Spokane
Antwinett Lee, EdD, MSN-CNS, BSN, RN and WSNA. If elected, I will work to continue Education: ADN, Spokane Community College;
King County Nurses Association this important work along with the other PhD, University of Northern Colorado. Position:
Lynnwood duties of the committee I am selected for.” Associate Dean Undergraduate Nursing, Assistant
Professor, Gonzaga University. Prior positions:
Education: BSN, Michigan State University; MSN, Spokane Community College, Spokane, Co-Nursing
Seattle University; EdD, Seattle University. Position: Department Chair, Instructor; Washington State
Interim Dean, School of Health Sciences, Seattle University, Spokane, Instructor; Gonzaga University,
Pacific University. Prior positions: Personal Health AT LARGE
Spokane, Clinical instructor; Sacred Heart Medical
Services Supervisor with Public Health-Seattle & King Center, Spokane, RN, Birthplace and Peds After
County; Clinical Performance Lab Director at Seattle Pamela Pasquale, MN, RN Hours; RJO Painting, Spokane, RN, Wellness
University; Nursing Director at Lake Washington North Central Nurses Association Consultant; Healthteam Northwest, Spokane,
Institute of Technology. Certifications, Honors Wenatchee RN, Pediatric Homecare; SJI Corp/NEC Business
and Awards: Washington State Nurses Association Network Solutions, Spokane, Telco Operations
(WSNA) Ethics and Human Rights Award Recipient; Education: Baccalaureate, Everett CC; Master’s in
Nursing, University of Washington; Shoreline CC Manager; Valley Hospital And Medical Center,
Honored as a Nurse Influencer by the University of Spokane, RN, Charge, Pediatrics and Mother/Baby
Washington at the 100th year Centennial Celebration; Labor Management AA. Position: Foot Care RN. Prior
positions: home health, home care, nursing home Children’s Hospital And Medical Center, Seattle, RN
Student Nursing Organization Leadership Award: Charge, Acute Care Float Pool, & Infant Medical
For exemplary leadership and selfless acts of time charge nurse, nurse delegation, RN faculty, Assisted
Living RN, Home Care Aide certification developer, Unit; Deaconess Medical Center, Spokane, RN
and dedication to the nursing program at LWTech; Charge, Pediatrics. Present office: IENA Director at
King County Nurses Association Shining Star Award: CNA instructor, Foot care RN. Past office: WSNA
Board of Directors: 1995-1997, 2011 – 2013; PNHCC Large. Certifications, honors and awards: Maternal
Outstanding Nurse; Mary Mahoney Professional Newborn Nursing, National Certification Corporation,
Nurses Organization Outstanding Service Award: Council Chair, 2017-2019, Member PNHCC multiple
four-year terms since 1993. Certifications, honors Sigma Theta Tau, Delta Chi-at-Large Chapter May,
Service in the role of President; Nomination for the Dr. Golden Key International Honor Society, Professional
Martin Luther King Jr. Humanitarian Award, Seattle and awards: ANA Board Certified, Gerontology.
memberships: AACN Organizational Leadership
King County Department of Public Health. Network, National Consortium for Building Healthy
“WSNA will come out of this pandemic
stronger and even more important as the Academic Communities, Association of Women’s
“I have loved serving on the Professional Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses.
Nursing and Health Care Council and want leader and advocate for the public, nurses
to continue to serve on the PNHCC Council. and for the ever-evolving areas where
I believe in promoting healthy communities nurses provide health care. There has been
through education, advocacy and outreach. overdue recognition of the importance of LEGISLATIVE AND HEALTH
As a nurse leader, I desire to empower nurses nurses in the front line of acute care, but also POLICY COUNCIL
and nursing students to elevate the profes- those who work in schools, long-term care
sion of nursing through evidence-based communities, outpatient settings, research,
practice, equity, inclusion and compassion education and more. In the last four years, CHAIR
for one another.” PNHCC has expanded its own oversight to
support nurses in these specialized practice Erin Allison, BSN, RN, CEN
settings with the new LTC Nurse Practice Northwest Region Nurses Association
Mikey O’Sullivan, MSN, BSN, RN Committee. WSNA will also emerge with new Bellingham
Inland Empire Nurses Association
Spokane
leadership as our current guiding force, Sally Education: ADN, Whatcom Community College;
Watkins, retires. It will be a great benefit for BSN, Western Governor’s University. Position:
Education: BSN, Morningside College; MSN, Purdue Emergency Dept RN, PeaceHealth St. Joseph
University Global. Position: Nursing Professor,
the new executive director to have members
with extensive prior experience and Medical Center. Prior positions: Private Home Care
Spokane Community College. Prior positions: Unify CNA; Caregiver for Adults with Developmental
Community Health, RN; Siouxland Community Health involvement to help with the current work Disabilities; Non-nursing: Mechanical Engineer for
Center, RN, Prenatal Services Manager; Crittenton to maintain our goals and vision and to help Nebraska State Energy Office, Undergraduate and
Center, RN, Prenatal Services Director. Current us grow. After a two-year hiatus, I would like Graduate Research Assistant for Midwest Roadside
Offices: Professional Nurses and Health Care to again lend my strengths and experience Safety Facility. Present office: LHPC Councilmember
Council, OEHSC; IENA Board Secretary. Professional 2017-Present. Certifications, honors and awards:
memberships: IENA, WSNA, ANA, WAHIMSS, WEA,
to PNHCC to especially include our new LTC
Committee within the ever-evolving role of Certified Emergency Nurse, ANAI Fellow; Mt. Baker,
AHE, AWHONN, SSH. Community involvement: ED Practice Council, Search and Rescue. Profes-
Board Secretary for Spokane Ballet Ensemble. ‘nurse practice.’” sional memberships: ENA. Mt. Baker, ED Practice
Council, Search and Rescue
“I have been a board member of Inland
Empire Nurses Association since moving to “The COVID-19 pandemic has given light
Washington state. For the past year, I have to the resource gaps and socioeconomic
served on the PNHCC and OEHSC commit- disparities in the U.S. health care system.
tees. I enjoy representing the East side of the Nurses are an essential and irreplaceable
state and working closely with nurse leaders part of the interdisciplinary healthcare team
on these committees. I want to continue my and have worked tirelessly throughout this
work with PNHCC because the committee pandemic despite being faced with some
16 THE WASHINGTON NURSE SPRING/SUMMER 2021CONVENTION | CANDIDATES FOR ELECTION
of the toughest challenges of their careers. Joni Hensley, BSN, RN Jessica Lewellen, RN
Nurses are also historically the fiercest Central Washington Region Nurses Association Inland Empire Nurses Association
advocates for their patients — and now, Everson Spokane
more than ever, it is time for us to advocate Education: BSN, Washington State University; Education: Associate Degree, Blue Mountain
for ourselves. As a Legislative and Health BS Environmental Science, Western Washington Community College, Position: Psychiatric
Policy Council Member for the past four University. Position: Retired. Prior professional Nurse, Providence Sacred Heart. Prior positions:
experience: I was a public health nurse for Whatcom 2007-2009 Montana State Hospital, 2010 Franklin
years, I have enjoyed building relationships County Health Department for 31 years serving Hills Rehabilitation, 2009-present DSHS individual
with our legislators. I also had the honor in many capacities in public health throughout respite caregiver. Offices: Participated and volun-
of being a Fellow in the American Nurses my career. Last professional work experience teered during last negotiations (contacting local
Advocacy Institute — a year-long program was with the WA State Dept of Health during start businesses, communicating with other local unions,
which focused specifically on advocacy by of pandemic. Past office: Served on PAC board, passing out pamphlets to union members, texting
nurses, for nurses. I have never been one to Legislative Committee and was Local Unit Chair for members about upcoming local unit meetings,
many years. Certifications, honors and awards: taking pictures of local businesses in support,
sit quietly when there is work to be done. As Currently certified in Infection Control and as a Faith helping out at rally, being a member of group
Chair, I will continue to foster these relation- Community Nurse; past certification as Community tasked to prep for possible strike). Shop steward for
ships to bring real-time nursing concerns Health Nurse and Environmental Health Specialist my unit. Delegate for the Spokane Regional Labor
and issues to the forefront of our legislator’s Luminary project; Currently assisting in the re-write Council, currently on the executive board. Delegate
minds and agendas.” of Scope and Standards of Public Health Nursing at Spokane Alliance. Participated as a voting member
(national group). Professional memberships: WSNA, at WSLC Convention 2019, 2020 as a delegate for the
NWRNA, APIC Spokane Regional Labor Council
AT LARGE (3 POSITIONS) “Since retiring from public health last year, I “I wanted to start being more involved at
feel called to continue to serve my commu- the state level after our 2019 negotiations
Stephanie Wahlgren, BSN, RN nity outside of governmental public health. I at Sacred Heart. Participating in my union
Northwest Region Nurses Association have always appreciated the efforts of WSNA and being a voice for my local has been truly
Sedro-Woolley and made many nursing friends during my rewarding. Seeing union members working
Education: Associates in Nursing, Skagit Valley past involvement with the Association. I was together as one opened my eyes to the
College; BSN, University of Washington. Position: so pleased to see the development of new strength we have when we fight together.
Emergency Nurse, Saint Joseph Medical Center. committees and am excited to share my Now with COVID-19 changing everything, I
Prior position: Skagit Valley Hospital staff nurse in energy and free time to help. I currently hold want to keep fighting for our members’ rights
PCU, ER. Certification, Honors and Awards: SANE-A, a certification in Infection Control and was during this pandemic. Over the last two years
SANE-P, Kathleen Marshall Award 2019, Nurse of the
Year innovator 2019. Professional memberships:
very involved in working with my nursing I have been a delegate and an executive
WSNA, IAFN, Forensic Nurse Academy, Mount Baker colleagues in Long-Term Care in my public board member for the Spokane Regional
Nurse Practitioner Association. health role. I also participated in developing Labor Council, where a group of us re-started
healthcare guidelines and making visits to our local YELL (Young Emerging Labor
“Working with sexual assault survivors is nursing homes during outbreaks when I Leaders) group. As the YELL Secretary-Trea-
an honor that I do not take lightly. Their worked at the State early in the pandemic. I surer I now have experience in developing
strength and courage to come forward believe that nurses will continue to be called and reviewing policies. I have also been a
about a vulnerable time in their life and the on for IP advice and feel that we should be at voting delegate at the Washington State
willingness to trust me with their history and every table where healthcare is discussed. I Labor Council for two years, and currently
their evidence increase my courage and recently became certified as a Faith Commu- participate in the SRLC PAC.”
strength and motivates me to work for them nity Nurse but haven’t become established
through better legislation. Giving voice to a because of the COVID outbreak. So, I have
very hard topic and to advocate for their safe, Gemma Aranda, MS, BSN, RN
reached out to a very impoverished area in King County Nurses Association
trauma-informed, patient-centered, quality Whatcom County and am helping to deliver Bellevue
care motivates me to work at the state level. food to homebound individuals and to get Education: Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Position:
I have expertise in my knowledge and skills to know other community members. There Registered Nurse, Overlake Medical Center and
for serving sexual assault survivors, intimate has also been the opportunity to participate Evergreen Health Care. Certifications, honors and
partner violence survivors, nonfatal strangu- in committee work in this community and awards: Third Academic Honors BSN 1992-1995
my goal is to help with access to healthcare Present offices: Overlake PACU Unit Rep and
lation survivors and those affected by child Overlake Hospital Grievance Officer. Past office:
sexual and physical abuse.” when plans are more developed. There is a
Overlake Hospital Contract Negotiation Team 2017.
possible interest by Northwest Center for PH
Practice to help with data collection and I
am hoping to work with them at some point.
WSNA involvement in home health and policy
development would be wonderful!”
SPRING/SUMMER 2021 THE WASHINGTON NURSE 17You can also read
