The NAPE/AFSCME Board of Directors held its final regular meeting of the 2023-2025 term on March 29, 2025. Five board members not seeking re-election were recognized for their service to our union. René Botts (DHHS, Lincoln), Gail Mann (DHHS, Beatrice), Avery Hulse (DHHS, Lincoln), Toni Bonsera (DHHS, Omaha), and Anissa Rasmussen (Economic Development, Lincoln) leave the board having presided over record membership growth.
These members leave the board with a combined 100 years of state service to their fellow Nebraskans. Together, they have provided leadership for our union guided through a lens of ensuring we continue to deliver the best services to our friends, neighbors, and community.
Anissa has served on the board for the last four years. She says those four years have flown by, and during that time she, “learned how important it was that it was her duty as a board member to advocate for all union members.” Anissa will continue to be involved in our union and looks forward to seeing new leaders step up to serve.
Avery has served our union in numerous roles, and she was elected to the board this last term. She encourages others to step up and be leaders, even if they are a little nervous. “I always had it in my mind that a person had to be an expert on the board. It was a major learning experience for me, and I highly recommend serving for anyone who is interested.” I’m so thankful for everyone who took time to teach me and allow me to voice my own thoughts, opinions, and experiences.
René is most proud of our growth during her time serving on the board. “My favorite work with our union is volunteering to organize new members.” René spent many hours serving as a Volunteer Member Organizer, and she encourages others to get involved in the VMO program. “I can’t wait to see us continue to grow!”
When Toni was first elected, the Board met in the basement of our old headquarters which is now a discount tire store. Having served on and off for many years, Toni is glad that during her most recent time on the board, leadership has inspired enthusiasm in our local union. “We’re no longer seen by some as something external and ‘over there’. We’ve stood shoulder-to-shoulder and won some very important victories.”
Toni says she’s very proud of our union and has been honored to serve on the board. “I know I’m leaving the work of NAPE in the most capable of hands and hearts.”
