Alaska Nurses Association News  

The Alaska Nurses Association (AaNA) Labor Program has developed a series of training opportunities for the newly-elected RN leaders. Ketchikan General Hospital bargaining unit leaders took part in this training last week. Upcoming training offerings will include grievance handling, negotiating team training and “running” your local union.  Individual training development will also be offered for local leaders as needed. AaNA-Labor Program is also exploring a “visioning” session to discuss strategic planning for our Program within the Alaska Nurses Association.

Please take a moment to thank those colleagues who have agreed to serve you and your local. Everyone is attempting to balance his or her work and home life and it is important to recognize these leaders who have stepped forward to work on behalf of the collective whole.

As the chair of your Labor Council, I invite any of you who would like to know more to call in for a monthly meeting for the Council, and/or for a meeting of the AaNA Board of Directors. It is your right as a member to attend these meetings, unless there is an executive session. The Labor Council meets monthly, the third Tuesday of the month from 5:30 PM-7:00 PM. The AaNA board of directors meets the second Tuesday of the month from 5:30 PM-6:30 PM. You may also check the AaNA website for regular news updates on your union and professional organization: http://www.aknurse.org

This leadership training has taken place with new and seasoned leaders at all three of our Labor Program bargaining units. If you were willing to serve your fellow nurses, you have resources available to you. Come to a meeting and find out what we do for each other.

(Left to Right) Front Row: Diana Porter(grievance officer), Sharon Clarkson (Negotiating team), Wanda Yoder (KGH BU Treasurer), Sarah Eichman (KGH BU Secretary)                                                                      

Back Row: Susan Walsh (KGH BU President, AaNA BOD & Labor Council), Jen MacDonald  (negotiating team), Donna Phillips (Labor Council chair), Kristin Fahey (KGH BU Vice-President & Negotiating team), Lila Elliott (Health & Safety Officer & Labor Council)       

Submitted by Donna Phillips, BSN, RN  

AaNA Labor Council chair