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ENDORSEMENTS
"Experience and accountability matter. This team combines these elements along with the energy to create change. I watched them all bring their unique talents to our union last term and am pleased at what they have accomplished. I am confident our union will move forward under their leadership."
Betty Holladay
Retiree from ODHS
"I am endorsing the Powerhouse team for workers! Why because they have the proven leadership to move our Union forward. These leaders care about each of us. I am proud to work alongside each of them. I encourage members to vote alongside me for this slate!"
Sharon Loney
President Local 150, Assistant Director Region 1 Central Valley, At Large State Agency Council
"This team has the vision and the drive to lead us toward a brighter future. Their commitment to transparency and action is exactly what we need right now."
Kelly Kalkofen
Board of Directors, Region 1
"I do not often endorse, and I don't think I've ever endorsed a slate. I do now. I cannot begin to conceive of any viable replacement for Melissa's experience and knowledge. Johnny has been showing up and grown into the role, giving promise for the future. Chelsea is by far the most principled, motivated, fundamentally capable, and inspiring person I think I have ever met. Cristal has absolutely proven her leadership and passion for a long, indisputable time. Mark has shown, in a short time, his skill, knowledge, approachability, and unique ability to explain in accessible terms our Union's finances. And last, and most definitely not least, Renae possesses an integrity beyond measure, and has a fierce advocate's heart. Not only do I believe in the leadership that is evident here, I genuinely like each of them as human beings. I do not give praise lightly, and I never sell anything. My heart to yours, this is not just the best option, but literally a stellar cast for a magnificent path forward."
Shaun Notdurft
Oregon Supported Living Program
President Local 902, Board of Directors
"These candidates work tirelessly for our members. They listen and show up promoting our Union values at every opportunity. Proud to see them willing and able to take on the challenges facing 503 and Oregon with a strong voice and an even stronger sense of commitment."
Barbara casey
Retired from ODHS
Board of Directors
"I endorse the full slate"
martin ramirez
ODHS Medford
"These 2 women have worked non stop and tirelessly for our causes in multiple ways to ensure our voices were not only heard but demanded the response to be non-negotiable. They have been consistently ALL inclusive without backing down to rhetoric as the reason to give in to inexcusable behavior from those who have NO INTENTION of changing their position on the strategies that management uses against us as Women of Real Cultural Diversity. Let us Endorse a MOVEMENT of Togetherness And SOLIDARITY by voting them in to Lead the Way for Strength to be an Asset and Not a hindrance and Get It Done!"
barbara evans
Candidate for Lane County Board of Directors
"The Powerhouse Slate for SEIU 503 stands out as the only team with the proven bargaining experience needed to deliver the strong contracts members deserve.Great contracts require preparation, strategy, and member involvement, not just passion. Every leader on this slate has firsthand experience negotiating their own contracts, and nearly all have negotiated union staff contracts. This dual perspective provides a deep understanding of labor relations, tactics, and leverage. At a time when workers face rising costs and staffing shortages, the Powerhouse Slate brings the real-world expertise necessary to secure better wages, safer workplaces, and lasting respect from day one."
Austin Fölnagy
Employment Department
Bargaining Delegate and CAPE Treasurer
"I endorse the full slate"
Joe Daunt
"As an Assistant Board member on the Board of Directors District 3 I would be honored and proud to endorse Mark Workman, Treasurer. And the entire slate of the following candidates running for Statewide office, Mellissa Unger, Executive Director, Johnny Earl, President, Chelsea Alionar, of Public Sector, Cristal De Jarnac, VP Of Care Sector, and Renae Bracken, Secretary. I have had the privilege of witnessing each slate candidate’s expertise, experience, knowledge base, endless dedication, and this slates rapport and ability to successfully coordinate SEIU 503 matters in the upmost professional manner. First and foremost, this amazing slate of Statewide candidates will always have SEIU 503 Union members’ best interests at hand and are proven strong leaders. In addition, Mark Workman has already demonstrated in the short time he has been acting treasure that he has the ability to be open and transparent as an officer, improved treasurer reports, and has the ability to engage with others in a respectful and positive manner. Mark Workman is treasure to behold as a person himself!"
Shelly McCarthy
OHCC Care Provider
Assistant Director, Board of Directors and Co-Director, District 5. Director
"I endorse the above slate"
Linda Burgin
Past Statewide President
Retired
"I endorse the full slate"
Graciela Hernández Villegas
Homecare
"All these individuals are amazing leaders who have a proven track record of getting things done. I am continually amazed to see how they show up and dedication to all SEIU workers."
Board of Directors, Higher Ed Director
andrew struthers
"As the existing Care sector Vice President i am termed out. I have appreciated my tie in the exec committee and I endorse each person on this slate. I have worked with all of them and know they have what it takes to move this union forward. They are already leaders in their locals and each have the experience, tenacity and loyalty to our members that is needed. We have a lot of negative federal stuff coming our way and we need experienced leaders to fight for our rights as a member ran union. Please help us get these inspiring people voted in to continue to fight for workers' rights across the state and in our regions. My vote is with them and I hope your vote is too."
Joy'e Willman
PSW
Homecare Secretary/ Treasurer
"I endorse the slate"
Specials Coalition Director/ DOJ VP
kathy lamar
"Melissa has been invaluable for her accurate and factual breakdowns during our higher education bargaining sessions, and has always been extremely knowledgeable and a perfect person for our executive director position. Johnny has always cared deeply and fought for all our union siblings, while both as my local president and our Statewide. He is one of my role models and why I have become so involved in not only our union, but the community, too. Chelsea is thoughtful and caring, but knows when to remind folks to respect each other, and drafts amazing resolutions based on human rights, encouraging our union to continue to champion these important goals. Cristal is always striving to make things clearer and easier to access for our members through her advocacy and ideas. Mark is considerate, forthright, and honest, ensuring that all concerns are addressed, not only about our budget, but also for our members in shared spaces. Renae is extremely passionate about ensuring all neurodivergent union siblings are given the same consideration and ability to engage. This slate is a winning team, and I wholeheartedly endorse their re-election!"
University of Oregon
SEIU 085 Vice President, (Appointed) Assistant Director Region 2
Annie McVay
"I endorse the full slate"
Nayeli Aguilar Diaz
Homecare
"This slate is a hardworking group that knows the ins and outs of all sublocals not just one. They have experience, integrity, and care about the members they represent. I wholeheartedly endorse these folks who are willing to learn, take on the hard issues, and strive to make OUR union a better organization for us all."
Patty Falkenstein
PSW Homecare 99 VP
"Oh, you can't scare me, I'm sticking to the union!"
Len Norwitz
Retired 503 Political Staff
"Happy to endorse these proven leaders of our union. They show up for the fights and are holding our elected leaders accountable. As higher ed bargaining starts to ramp up to fight mode, there is no stronger leadership team id like having my back."
Chris case
University of Oregon
Assistant Director Higher Education
"I have been a Steward for 6 years. Melissa has served her term as VP in that time. I have apart of Melissa's Journey as well as when Johnny Earl was first elected as President. I believe both of roles show up and represent workers as well all fight for fair contracts. I look forward to walking in their path as power continues to grow!"
Sarah LeBrun
Nursing Home Council Delegate
"I have complete faith in Melissa and Johnny's leadership"
Ruby Thompson
University of Oregon
"The Powerhouse Team are effective and assertive defenders of our contracts and rights on the job. They understand that there are no shortcuts when moving our diverse and essential 503 membership to speak with a unified voice. We are powerful together and we need this team of leaders to continue to do the hard work of creating the conditions where we can demand respect and quality of life in Oregon."
University of Oregon
President, SEIU 503 sublocal 085
Jennifer Smith
"I believe that this slate of candidates is most qualified to continue moving our Union into the future."
Ron Strle
PACS HOOD RIVER POST ACUTE
Steward
"I’ve had the pleasure of working with these folks for the last two years in a variety of ways. The most important thing about each of them for me personally is that they accept me. Each of them has contributed to my growth as a person and as a leader. Why I would vote for them is that the treatment they give me is the treatment they are committed to giving all of our members."
Renae Bracken
Oregon Department of Justice
"These union members have a proven track record of improving working conditions for members within their locals through dedicated advocacy and activism. I am confident they will continue to bring their best efforts, integrity, and commitment to representing members' needs where it matters most. Their leadership and dedication make them strong candidates for statewide endorsement."
Beth Robinson
University of Oregon
Steward/ GC Delegate
"I support the full team!"
Felisa Hagins
SEIU Staff
"I endorse Melissa, Johnny, Cristal, Mark, and Renae. These are our Members who have the Experience, Knowledge, Integrity, Passion and drive to get the job done. I've worked with them personally, for years, and they have never let me down."
Shelli Adams
Lake County
CAT Leader & Homecare Worker
"I believe that this slate of candidates is most qualified to continue moving our Union into the future."
Joy'e Willman
Homecare
Current Care Sector Vice President of SEIU503
"Please support these leaders who are showing up for us! They have experience, and ethical values that we need to strengthen our Union and help us have the resources we deserve from the value we bring to our work."
Chaz Dutoit
Homecare
"I endorse Melissa, Johnny, and Cristal.
Knowledgeable, Spokesperson for Blue Collar workers and Politically ready to fight for us!"
Loril Eaton
OHC/State HomeCare Provider
Chief Steward Personal Support Worker
"I am proud to endorse this outstanding slate of candidates for union leadership. Each of these individuals has demonstrated a strong commitment to serving our members with integrity, transparency, and accountability. They understand the importance of protecting our collective bargaining rights, advocating for safe working conditions, and ensuring every member has a voice in the decisions that affect our union. This team brings the experience, dedication, and collaborative leadership needed to strengthen our union and meet the challenges ahead. They are committed to open communication, responsible stewardship of our resources, and building a stronger, more united membership. I encourage all members to support this slate and vote for leaders who will put the interests of the membership first, work tirelessly on our behalf, and help build a stronger future for our union."
Stephanie Prentiss
SEIU 503 Staff
"Over the past several years, I've had the privilege of working alongside every member of this slate. I've seen firsthand the dedication, integrity, and determination they bring to our union every single day. They don't just hold titles. They lead, they organize, they listen, and they fight for the members they represent. Most importantly, they have remained accountable to the members they were elected to serve. I won't pretend we've always agreed. We've had spirited debates, challenged one another, and pushed each other to defend our ideas. That's what a healthy, member-led union looks like. Every disagreement has made us stronger because we have always come back to the same goal: building a stronger union that puts members first. Under Cristal's leadership, Homecare has grown into one of the largest and strongest sectors in our union. Chelsea has been a tireless advocate for State Workers, ensuring their voices are heard and standing with them when they needed someone willing to fight on their behalf. Their leadership has strengthened our union, empowered our members, and laid the foundation for an even stronger future. Melissa Unger and Johnny Earl have also earned my unwavering support. They have helped our union grow from within while standing firm against attacks from the outside. When our union has faced challenges, they have been our shields, protecting our members, defending our values, and ensuring we emerged stronger together. Integrity is not something you claim. It's something you demonstrate through your actions. Every member of this slate has earned my trust by showing up, doing the work, and putting members first. That is why I am proud to give this team my full and unequivocal endorsement. I encourage every member to vote for this slate and help build an even stronger future for our union.
Kyle Durkee
Homecare Provider
Homecare Council Representative/ Steward
"Ive worked (albeit on a fairly limited basis) with all three of the people i endorsed and feel they bring knowledge and lived experience to the table that will help current and future workers. Cristal has served as president of homecare for as long as ive been a part of the union, and i feel shes done a good job for members and consumers, all while navigating her own challenges. She also has formed good working relationships with state legislators and is likely on a first name basis with a lot of them. For me, she’s got the experience and toughness that will be needed going forward. She has also served on many committees, all on her own time. She also listens to and considers members’ (and leaders’) concerns, and jumps in to help when it counts. I dont have a lot of experience with Johnny Earl or Melissa, but ive seen Johnny participate in member events and hes quite a compelling speaker and commands a room when he enters it. Hes been a good president and i feel that he does have members’ interests at heart. Melissa is someone who knows how to navigate tough conversations. I dont know her well, but i think she would definitely be a great fit for a team like this. In my limited experience with her, she seems to care about the bigger picture and obviously knows quite a bit about the current political landscape. She doesnt back down and doesnt get frazzled. Thats the kind of energy we need right now. I dont know the other people on the slate, so ill refrain from making comment about them."
Shannon Romo
Homecare Provider
"Cristal has done and continues to do a great job at having answers to questions. We have a great group of union leaders fighting for us, backing us, and standing up for our workers rights. I endorse Melissa and Cristal."
LaMara Thrasher
Homecare Provider
"I endorse the whole team and proud to have them representing me in SEIU. Keep the team together, they work so well together and are a dynamic that gets things done to support the union and it’s members!"
Lori lamon
OHCC
"I endorse Melissa, Johnny, Cristal, and Mark."
Josefina Riggs
PSW
"I'm for the whole slate."
Sheri Stephen
Care Provider
"As the Immediate Past President and current Board member, I have had the opportunity to work with this entire group. No one will out work them. They bleed purple. Accountability is their middle name. They know what sacrifice for others means — and they live it. Join me in voting for this talented and dedicated group."
Mike Powers
Past President
SEIU Local 503
"I support Melissa, Johnny, and Cristal. I know all of these people. They have done a great deal for our union. Please vote for them."
Phyllis Wills
Personal support worker
Slate
What a team! This is a slate of member leaders from diverse sectors who have put in years of service to the Union and its members. Each one has done outstanding work at multiple levels on behalf of us, the members of SEIU 503. We are fortunate to have such an experienced and successful team of dedicated leaders who are willing to bring their knowledge and dedication to our Union’s statewide governance. In these times, we are also fortunate these leaders have another important attribute: the courage of their labor convictions.
Melissa Unger
Under Melissa Unger’s leadership, SEIU 503 is an effective collective bargaining union, financially strong, and politically influential to the benefit of members. The Executive Director is the CEO of our Union, and under Melissa our Union is well run. One example: Melissa and her team have done an outstanding job of meeting the budgets set by General Council and the Board of Directors. Melissa responds to criticisms and complaints by considering their cause, not being defensive, and leads the organization for continuous improvement. The opportunity for her continued leadership is an opportunity we must seize.
Johnny Earl
Johnny Earl is one of those extraordinary individuals who continue to personally grow, becoming ever stronger. To the great benefit of our Union, Johnny has brought that capacity and commitment to growth to his leadership roles in the Union, including his current position of SEIU 503 President. Johnny also brings inspiring passion for the Union and the labor movement, and he works his rear off. We can benefit from his gifts as President for another two years. Let’s do it!
Chelsea Alionar
Chelsea Alionar’s contributions to SEIU 503 and its members are inspiring. She shows up everywhere in every way for the Union, members, and the labor movement. She brings that all-out support and consideration for members to her work as a member leader. Add to that her experience as Vice President from the public employee sector, and Chelsea’s continued service as a statewide officer will be a tremendous voice and asset for members and our Union.
Cristal DeJarnac
Cristal DeJarnac has a long history of tremendous service to our Union. She has taken on many leadership roles, and she travels the state to support members. Now, we can have Cristal bring all that experience of service and leadership to the role of Vice President. It’s Cristal-clear, she is the choice for Vice President from the care sector.
Mark Workman
Mark Workman gives his all for our Union. He loves the Union. So, he brings all his considerable skills to his roles as a member leader, including 503 Treasurer. Besides mastering the duties of Treasurer in a short time, including chairing the Finance Committee, he has worked to communicate and bring transparency about the Union’s finances to members. Let’s keep the responsibilities of Treasurer in capable hands. Let’s keep Mark Workman.
Renae Bracken
Every team should have a Renae Bracken. Renae keeps things organized and on track. As 503 Secretary, she carries out her responsibilities on the Board of Directors, Executive Committee and the Finance Committee, and as chair of the Operations Committee, with excellence. Let’s maintain excellence and re-elect Renae Bracken.
Steve Demarest
Past President
Retiree
"My name is Stephanie and I have worked with Chelsea on various incidents and issues and she is the most patient , level headed person I think I have ever met. She’s extremely knowledgeable and provides individuals with the information they need to make informed decisions. I am more than happy to endorse Chelsea."
stephanie andrade
Contract Specialist with SEIU, Secretary of Sub Local 218, Steward
"I endorse Chelsea"
Karla Cook
Sublocal Vice President
"I am proud to endorse Chelsea Alionar for VP of public sector. Having worked with her for over a year, I have seen firsthand her dedication to our members. As a boots on the ground, Union member, I know that whenever I’ve reached out to her, she has listened, followed through, and been there to help. She is approachable, communicates, well, and treats every member with fairness and respect. She consistently advocates for members during difficult situations, helps train, new stewards, and works to bring members together in solidarity. I am confident she will be an outstanding vice president and a strong voice for all Union member members."
Sheila Beard
ODHS, OEP, VEC
"I endorse Chelsea"
James VanderZanden
Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services
"I endorse Chelsea"
sam dooley
OPAR
"Having worked with Mark for the past 7 years, I know that he not only will bring the skills needed to this role but the integrity and care it deserves. I endorse Mark Workman for state Treasurer."
Valeriya Silvernail
Education Northwest
Steward
"I have been a Steward for 11 years and when I changed positions in 2023 I moved to a new sublocal where the landscape was all new. Chelsea made sure I was connected and supported in a way that was so different from what I was used to. Her passion for workers rights is an inspiration and her knowledge and integrity will be strong contributions to our state leadership."
colleen kiser
Chief Steward Sub Local 217
"Mark will be the fantastic treasurer we need. He has the experience, enthusiasm, and honesty to ensure that the union can continue to do what it does best, represent us."
Jason Greenberg Motamedi
Education Northwest
"Mark Workman is passionate about whatever he sets out to do. He is one of the most ethical persons that I know. Mark will carefully account for every penny that comes under his stewardship. I heartily endorse Mark Workman as Treasurer."
Rose Stahl
Mark's Mom
"I endorse Chelsea"
Kateryna Priakhina
ODHS, Public Benefit Specialist
"I am proud to endorse Mark for SEIU 503 Statewide Treasurer. As our Financial Analyst, Mark is the person I can always count on for thoughtful guidance, patience, and support. He consistently goes above and beyond in service to our organization and its staff, and his commitment was recognized when he received a staff award last year. Mark is not only exceptionally skilled at what he does—he is also a dedicated advocate for staff and a genuinely kind colleague. His work often happens behind the scenes, but it makes an enormous difference every day. SEIU 503 would be fortunate to have Mark serving as Statewide Treasurer."
Grace Gowdy
Education Northwest
Senior Researcher
"I am proud to endorse Mark Workman for SEIU Local 503 Treasurer. Mark handles the finance work at our organization, and he is truly the best at what he does. He is exceptionally conscientious, precise, and completely reliable. A strong union requires flawless stewardship of its resources, and Mark has the exact professional expertise we need to safeguard our members' dues."
Jacob Williams
Education Northwest
"As an individual with hidden disabilities, I have found that our Union has been lacking in creating neuro inclusive and hidden disabilities friendly spaces. When faced with an opportunity to advocate for myself and others I found a willing ear to listen and partner in Chelsea. Chelsea listened with an open ear and willingness to learn how creating neuro inclusive and hidden disabilities friendly spaces benefits everyone and not just the 1 in 4 individuals who are in impacted. She also sprang into action quickly to start to address the barriers that exist in our Union. It is individuals such as Chelsea we new in leadership to make the necessary changes in our Union to be inclusive to all and exemplify our Code of Conduct."
Wednesday Martin
ODHS Asst VP L200 VR
"I endorse Chelsea."
jared page
OED BPC
Section Officer - Central Office
"Chelsea has answered my phone call every single time I have called. She has been there to answer every question I have, any help I need she agrees and jumps right on it. I appreciate her more than words."
Stephanie Andrade
ODHS Background Check Unit
"I have known Chelsea for quite some time, and her absolute, unequivocal knowledge of what it means to engage our membership is hands down one of the best I have experienced. Chelsea's work ethic is driven by her dedication to research, fact-based information, and a genuine motivation to share her heart. It is without any hesitation that I hope you will join me in supporting Chelsea for Vice President." Santacroce"
Gina M Santacroce
ODHS-OEP
Compliance Specialist 2
"I have worked with Melissa Unger for the past 10 years. I have always found her very approachable. When it came time for Nursing Home workers to finally get insurance that we could use, Melissa went to the matts for us. Along with our alliance members putting together the essential workers healthcare Trust that brought affordable insurance to Nursing Home workers."
Ron Strle
PACs Nursing Homes
Steward
"Chelsea cares more than just about anyone that I have ever met. She's been available to contact way outside of regular business hours and she's helped me help coworkers with all sorts of challenging issues with grievances and workday. She and I have argued different sides of issues and not once has she ever made me feel like I was judged or wrong for my disagreement with her point of view. Chelsea Alionar has my vote and I know that she will continue to work hard to try to do the best she can for the entire union, not just her own concerns."
Holly Smith
ODHS Oregon Child Abuse Reporting Hotline
"I’ve known Johnny Earl for about six years. It has been my experience that johnny is one of the kindest sincerest, hard-working, and caring people to hold elected position within SEIU 503. I support johnny Earl for PRESIDENT as he supports every SEIU 503 member."
Ron Strle
PACs Nursing Homes
Steward
"I support Cristal DeJarnac for vice president of care sector. Cristal is hard-working, honest and greatly cares for her Union siblings in any sector. I am proud to call Cristal my friend."
Ron Strle
PACs Nursing Homes
Steward
"I'm proud to endorse Cristal DeJarnac for VP the Care Sector of SEIU 503. She's a tireless advocate who has fought hard in our community because workers are getting squeezed by wages that don't keep up with housing costs. Cristal shows up, does the work, and delivers for the people she serves."
Rick Russell
County Commissioner Elect @ Deschutes County
"I believe that this slate of candidates is most qualified to continue moving our Union into the future."
Vivian Barbour
University of Oregon
"I highly recommend Melissa I get for executive director she has served our union in so many ways. She has lobbied , done rallies fought for us to retain our union jobs. She will continue to fight for us! Please consider electing her as our next state wide officer"
Alice Redding
Retiree
"I endorse Johnny Earl."
Bob Petersen
University of Oregon
"I endorse Cristal."
Heidi turner
Full Access High Desert
PSW
"I endorse Cristal for her exemplary achievements and accomplishments"
Liwanag awthon
Deschutes County
"I endorse Cristal for vp care sector"
Jack cawthon
Deschutes County
PSW
"I endorse Cristal"
Chris Christensen
West Salem /neast Salem
"To put it simply, Cristal always shows up! It is apparent when someone lives with genuine care and purpose. Cristal is one of these people. She is devoted to the people, the cause, the betterment of the world. She is constantly sharing important information, navigating member needs/questions/concerns, managing logistics and she seems to do so with her whole heart. In my time getting to know Cristal, she has helped me get a better grasp of policy, my rights and effective actions. She does this all from the abundance of goodness that she lives her life by. I fully support Cristal in her aspirations to continue to lead with sincere care as Vice President of the Care Sector."
Ancient Hatfield
Homecare Professional/Peer Advocate/Wellness Moment Facilitator
"Because I’m really like her how she doing her work"
Leticia Rubalcava
Homecare