My name is Brittainy Nelson, and I am running for Vice President.

I have been a member of UAEA since July 2017. I started my volunteer experience with UAEA as a Citywide representative. During my time as Citywide representative I assisted members with various cases and acted as Interim Resolution Director. I then filled a vacancy to become the Membership Director.

During my time as Membership director, I have grown the membership to an historical high of 325 members. I have curated swag bags for new members so that they know they are valued in the organization and included information on ways to get the most benefits from being a UAEA member.

I was instrumental in starting the employee of the quarter program, a program that helps members recognize their peers. During my time on the Board, I have sat on several interview panels and been a part of two MOU negotiations. Now I am running for Vice President because I believe I can continue to help lead and grow the organization in a new capacity.

Hi UAEA members!

My name is Brian Gonzales, and I’ve been with the City of Tempe for 25 years. Throughout my career, I’ve always tried to make a positive difference and build meaningful connections with employees across the city. I’ve been on the Tempe Employee’s Council, the Tardeada committee, and for the past 4 years, on the UAEA board as a city-wide rep and most recently as Treasurer. These positions have helped me understand how I can contribute to achieving those goals.

I’ve accepted the nomination and I’m excited for the opportunity to be Vice President. I believe this is another great chance to connect with employees throughout the city and make a positive impact. I’m eager to find ways to better support our UAEA members and help the union overcome the challenges we’re sure to face. I know it’s important to be able to represent all members across our diverse work sites. My time on the board has given me the opportunity to represent members from most departments, serve on our MOU negotiating team, meet with multiple deputy directors, and gain a deeper understanding of how our organization works. I believe UAEA has the potential to be even stronger and I’m eager to continue the hard work to improve pay, benefits, and working conditions for our members. I’m confident I can provide the support and leadership needed for the Vice President’s role, and I understand the responsibility that comes with this position.

I’m committed to serving our members to the best of my ability. Thank you for considering my nomination and for your vote.

Hello everyone, I’m Jeremy Hopf, and I am pleased to announce my candidacy to be your Membership Director.

With 14 years of service with the City of Tempe, I have developed a deep understanding of our work community and its needs, as well as a strong desire to support and grow the membership of UAEA.

My experience includes two years of active service on the executive board, and near completion of Lead Tempe Certification through which I honed my leadership skills and gained valuable insights into member engagement and program development. I am committed to fostering an inclusive environment that encourages participation and collaboration among all members.

I believe that by focusing on our members' needs and aspirations, and by tapping into their talents, we can significantly enhance our association's impact and reach. Together, we can create innovative strategies that attract new members, ensure that all voices within our organization are heard and valued, and increase the quality and variety of services UAEA can provide our members.

I am looking forward to the opportunity to bring my passion and experience to the role of Membership Director and to expand and enhance our association in meaningful ways. Thank you for considering my candidacy.

Hello UAEA Members,

Thank you so much for taking a moment to read this. I’m happy to share a bit of information about myself. My name is Leah Sergeant and I’ve been a City of Tempe full-time employee for 26 years (part time for 3 years prior). Originally, I’m from the Midwest and moved here to go to Arizona State University. While in college, I worked part time with the city and after graduation became a full-time employee here. I currently work with the Kid Zone Enrichment programs as a Community Education Specialist – a job and position, I have thoroughly enjoyed. Especially the relationships I’ve built in my current work group and throughout the city. During my time here, I’ve had the opportunity to be involved in many leadership committees, trainings and programs which has given me a better understanding of how the city operates and put me in touch with employees in all departments.

My involvement with UAEA started with its’ creation back in 2011 – (our grass roots start, as we like to say) in one way or another – as an officer, a representative, and supportive member. Most recently I have served as UAEA’s Vice-President the past four years and realize the very important role our union plays in supporting employees and their rights during their career here. From this experience, I have been a part of MOU negotiations, disciplinary representations, labor management meetings, City Manager and council meetings, policy changes, and working condition improvements. And most importantly providing overall care and support when working through difficult employee situations and meetings as they arise. I believe treating employees with honesty, respect, understanding, and kindness is key. Especially during difficult situations. I look forward to the future of UAEA and what lies ahead for us and how we can continue to improve and look for ways to make your time here at the City a memorable and positive experience. I’m proud of what we have accomplished. The membership and our dedicated e-team, both of which are crucial to our success, have taught me so much and allowed me to have greater understanding of employee’s concerns. I’m also excited about the growth and plans we have for membership involvement and hope to be a part of that implementation. I appreciate your support of UAEA and for being a part of this process. Thank you in advance for your vote.

Have a great day everyone!

Resolutions Director

(no writeup was provided as of this time)