Local 5094 2025 Candidate Statements
Ryan Novosielski – Co-President RBHC Newark & UH
I’m Ryan. I currently serve as Co-President, and have worked at the combined Rutgers for 26 years, starting at UMDNJ as a high school intern. I graduated from Rutgers College in 2004, my hometown hospital is University Hospital, and I’ve been responsible for IT equipment at today’s Rowan SOM. I’ve seen the good work we do and have learned through experience how hard we often have to fight our employers for the treatment we deserve in compensation.
We have made some good progress over the last few years – winning unprecedented contracts from Rowan, Rutgers, and University Hospital. We’ve increased our number of union reps, community connections, and training opportunities – including how to build member power. We’ve had members directly involved in contract negotiations – through open bargaining and pushing for better contracts away from the bargaining table through contract action teams. Most importantly, we heard management’s “final” offers and have successfully moved them off these proposals nearly every time. We also proved to be stronger than a university president and a hospital CEO who were slow to recognize our true worth.
While those are respectable accomplishments, the times ahead are going to require us to be stronger than we have potentially ever been in this local’s history. Federal attacks on everything from research dollars to tuition aid to both Medicare and Medicaid funding mean that all of our employers may face funding cuts in the coming years (many of them conveniently taking effect after the 2026 midterm elections). We learned at the beginning of the ongoing COVID-19 health crisis that our employers can be remarkably uncreative when facing hard times. It was our unions that proposed the work-sharing furloughs that saved jobs (and led to increases in take-home pay for lower-income members). We know that the work we do is important to our communities, and it is on us to protect it –because it’s likely that no one else will. As is common in these circumstances, it’s likely those that can least afford it who will suffer the most if we don’t.
In the midst of all of this, there are reasons to be hopeful. We have built a good team on our Local Executive Board, who are clear on what a strong and thriving union looks like and committed to getting us there. To that end, I ask that you support my fellow candidates, Roshni Danak for Co-Secretary, and Mayra Barreto for Co-Grievance Chair. Both exemplify what it means to be a union leader and have spent many hours of their time on educational calls to learn how to build a stronger and more member-led union, as well as responding to member emergencies, all with significant outside responsibilities.
Often, tough times are the catalyst we need to motivate us to make change. Let’s remember what makes unions what they are: all of our voices together in solidarity. Our union cannot win without you. Join us as we work to build better and fairer workplaces!
Solidarity!
Mayra Barreto – Co-Grievance Chairperson RBHC Newark & UH
My name is Mayra Barreto, and I am currently the co-grievance chair for the Newark Campus. I am running for re-election and wanted to express my desire to continue to represent and work with my fellow HPAE members. A little about myself I have worked for the University since June 1997 first under UMDNJ and now Rutgers University. During my time at the University, I have had many good and bad experiences. These experiences included unjustified write ups and disciplines also a layoff. In those times I could always count on my union. I always had support, advice and help. This motivated me to become involved in any way possible. I started with the contract negotiations team and eventually this led me to run for co-grievance chair.
During my time as grievance chair, I have represented many employees while working with the Executive Board to improve our union, offering training, meetings and support to all our members. This election is very important because workers are being attacked by this current administration, and we also have a very important contract negotiation coming up. I hope you will all trust me enough to vote for my re-election so that I can continue my work with the union.
In Solidarity,
Mayra
Justin Solleder – Rutgers CINJ at large representative
Hi, I’m Justin, and I’d be honored to be your rep. I’ve been a part of our union for all three years I’ve worked at Rutgers, and in the research committee for a little over a year now! I work for CINJ in the population science department based out of 120 Albany Street. I’m a fourth-generation union member, with my father, grandfather, and even great-grandfather holding leadership positions at IBEW Local 164. I hope to bring the same effective and compassionate leadership to HPAE by strengthening our organization and building both community and camaraderie in the research departments and beyond. I’m a scientist at heart, and that means I won’t hesitate to experiment, listen to feedback, and do whatever it takes to find the best results for all of us! Thank you for your time and consideration.
George Rosemond – Rutgers UBHC Acute Psychiatric Services Representative
Empowering Minds, Strengthening Voices – George Rosemond-Griffith for Union Rep
Dear Mental Health Clinicians,
In our demanding and vital profession, your dedication to supporting individuals through their most challenging moments is nothing short of heroic. Yet, despite the critical nature of our work, mental health clinicians often face unique workplace challenges—ranging from burnout and inadequate resources to insufficient recognition and limited influence in workplace decisions.
I’m George Rosemond-Griffith, and I am running to be your Union Representative because I believe that those who care for the minds of others deserve a representative who truly understands the complexities of our field and is committed to advocating for your rights, well-being, and professional growth. As the renowned psychologist Carl Rogers said, “The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination.” Let’s move forward together in the direction of fairness, respect, and support.
Why Vote for George Rosemond-Griffith?
1. Advocacy for Mental Health Professionals:
I will champion policies that address the specific needs of mental health clinicians, including manageable caseloads, access to continuing education, and improved workplace safety. Your mental health and job satisfaction are paramount, and I will work tirelessly to ensure your voice is heard in union negotiations.
2. Combating Burnout and Promoting Wellness:
Burnout is a pervasive issue in our profession. I will push for programs that support clinician wellness, including mental health days, peer support networks, and access to counseling services. A healthy clinician is a more effective clinician, and your well-being is a priority.
3. Fair Compensation and Benefits:
Your expertise and commitment deserve fair compensation. I will advocate for competitive wages, comprehensive benefits, and recognition of the specialized skills that mental health clinicians bring to the table. Together, we can work toward equitable pay that reflects the value of your work.
4. Professional Development and Growth:
Continued learning is essential in our ever-evolving field. I will fight for union-supported professional development opportunities, including workshops, certifications, and conferences that help you stay at the forefront of mental health care.
5. Inclusive and Respectful Work Environment:
Every clinician deserves a workplace free from discrimination, harassment, and stigma. I will promote policies that foster inclusivity, respect, and collaboration among all mental health professionals.
Together, We Can Make a Difference
Your role as mental health clinicians is indispensable. By electing me as your Union Representative, you are choosing a leader who listens, understands, and acts with your best interests at heart. I am committed to building a stronger, more supportive community where your contributions are valued and your challenges addressed.
Let’s empower minds and strengthen voices—starting with yours.
Vote George Rosemond-Griffith for Union Representative. Because when mental health clinicians thrive, so do the communities we serve.
Thank you for your support.