Everything happens for a reason. And for every reason there is a goal. When I chose to get involved in our union over 16 years ago, it was for the purpose of understanding my rights and finding a way to combat the bullying I witnessed in the departments I worked in.
Most people know me from working in various areas of the institution. I began my career at UCH in what was once called the Farmington Surgery Center, migrating over to the Dermatology Department/ MOHS surgery, landing in Clinical Research and ultimately the IT Department. I’ve enjoyed and appreciated the experience and knowledge I’ve gained from the various roles I’ve worked.
At the same time, I chose to advance through the union ladder, in various positions from union rep to union steward to vice president for membership activities for six years and until recently serving as your first vice president for collective bargaining. Some may say I’m quiet, others, the life of the party. Some recognize me as a compassionate, empathetic confidant who stands with members to defend the contract, their rights and the truth. Even when the answer isn’t “yes,” you have always received the truth, and you always will. I’ve prided myself on believing that telling someone what they want to hear does both people a disservice. There’s no knowledge gained in sugarcoating reality, only cavities.
I made the tough choice to run for UHP president after my four years as first VP and I’m proud to say that even though the road was bumpy, the goal is the same. Leading UHP into a new path forged by respect and confidence is the only way to achieve any of the goals we have set. We require mutual respect from our membership, management and ourselves.
Everyone won’t always be happy. But if that was the case, there would be no need for a union. I’m hoping this path I’ve chosen allows us to see where we fell short, where we can improve, and how we can build more for the betterment of all our members in UHP.
This isn’t a path I’ve designed alone, which is why I’m very excited to have the executive team I have by my side. Your executive board is committed to having a hand in making posi-tive changes for all the job titles we represent, not just the few.
Every one of you makes UCH what it is. The institution doesn’t run without any of you, because all your roles are important and it’s time to make that known. That only works if we’re in this together and with your help, we can do that. UHP isn’t the 11 members of the board, the union reps or the union stewards. We are ALL the UNION and we ALL can make change.
I look forward to serving with you. And I hope you look forward to what’s in store.
—In solidarity, Shawn Brown