My name is Rhonda Morgan and I’m asking for your vote and the opportunity to serve as Director for Region 1, representing members who live in Marion and Polk Counties. I currently serve as assistant director for this same region and would welcome the responsibility of representing you in the Director role. As Assistant Director, I’ve spoken up for those who are not in the room, even when the message was unpopular. I believe we are stronger because of our diversity- not in spite of it. Diversity of race, religion, orientation and political ideology. We are a big union- the Largest in Oregon, and we represent workers across many spectrum. I feel it is important that no member feels marginalized because of decisions that are made by our governing body. I’ve been an active member since I came to state service 16 years ago as an office specialist 2 for the APD program in North Bend. I got involved in leadership positions because decisions were being made that I simply didn’t understand. They felt like they were happening in a vacuum with little input from the people I worked with in a small rural town on the south coast. So I started showing up, asking questions, and offering a different perspective. I bring 15 years of union experience to this position including: Bargaining Delegate, General Council Delegate since 2006, Steward for 12 years, Sub local 207 Vice Chair, and then Chair. Statewide President for DHS/OHA Local 200 for 4 years, Chair of Staff screening committee, Chair of Women’s Council, CAPE council delegate and Region Chair, Steward Committee member Director of Human Services sector on Board of Directors for 2 terms and I’m currently serving as one of the first Contract Specialists in the nation for Public sector, supporting the Human Services Coalition. Now I find that I enjoy the opportunities to mentor other new leaders in our union. I encourage you to Vote in this union election! – hopefully for me- but if not- Please use your voice and vote! Thank you for your consideration! In unity!! Rhonda