endorsements
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Statements Added Regularly
Statement of Endorsement
By Lyllian Simins, Former Vice President at Large of NTEU Chapter 224
Dear NTEU Colleagues,
My name is Lyllian Simins, and I served as vice president at large on our chapter’s executive board until recently (my letter of resignation explained why I felt I had to resign). I am now retired from SSA and have no personal stake in the outcome of this election. I am writing because I believe in our union and in the value of honest, effective, and collaborative leadership—which is why change is necessary.
I proudly and wholeheartedly support Don Nagel, Jess Murphy, Jennifer Nixon, Kim Ryan, and Tyler Bellin. Here’s why…
Statement of Endorsement
By Urania Juang
“As an NTEU rep, Jen (i.e. Jennifer Nixon, Vice President At Large Candidate) is dedicated, responsive, and passionate about helping her fellow NTEU members. Jen has helped me immensely on multiple occasions, including in requesting and obtaining reasonable accommodations and drafting and filing grievances on my behalf.”
Statement of Endorsement
By Lucia Pearlman
To Whom It May Concern,
It is with great enthusiasm that I endorse Jessica Murphy for Executive Vice President/ Chief Steward of NTEU.
Ms. Murphy earned my respect as an attorney with extraordinary knowledge in navigating complex employment situations. I benefited from her professional guidance and support in 2024. She lived up to her reputation of being “one of the best”. She is a dynamic and personable leader who consistently demonstrates a unique ability to think strategically while delivering results with remarkable efficiency. It is undeniable that under her leadership, she will ensure that every voice is heard and respected.
Her combination of vision, dedication, and tireless advocacy makes her the ideal choice to serve as our next Executive Vice President. I wholeheartedly support her candidacy and encourage others to do the same.
Statement of Endorsement
By Jean Loh
A vote for Jen as Vice President at Large! I met Jen earlier this year. Her experience and humanity was immediate to me. During a very busy and precarious time, Jen was a rock. She responded immediately and within the parameters of her duties, provided answers that spoke to the depth of her expertise and experience, and was always prepared to schedule calls or meetings with me and relevant individuals. Not only did her professionalism and sharp insight stand out - Jen's compassion and affable personality was a much-welcomed source of grace at a time when much everything else was fight or flight. She is astute, incredibly skilled, and compassionate. Jen is the consummate champion of the people NTEU represents.
Statement of Endorsement
NTEU Bargaining Unit Member
I unreservedly recommend Jessica Murphy, Esq., as Executive Vice President/Chief Steward. Jess offered me expert professional guidance and support when drafting a response to a very unfair interim evaluation that I received from an inexperienced supervisor. She made herself available any time, including nights and weekends, to help me with my issue. She will give you 1,000%. She is an asset to the Union and to the constituents she serves.
Statement of Endorsement
by Sagrario M. Perez
I am happy to fully endorse Jennifer Nixon for Vice President at Large. Last year, I was placed on an opportunity to perform successfully. I have worked for the Administration for nearly twenty four years and I was an AFGE steward years ago. Nevertheless, I felt that I needed help, guidance and support from my union.
During our first conversation, Jennifer demonstrated that she cared about my situation and about doing everything she could to help me. Jennifer was supportive and very knowledgeable about the process. She gave me invaluable advice as to how I should approach my workload to ensure that I approached the OPS successfully. Additionally, Jennifer gave me very practical and honest advice as to what my expectations should be and what I needed to get done. I believe that Jennifer would carry the same qualities and skills that she showed while assisting me to her new role as Vice President at Large. Jennifer will fight and advocate for your rights.
Thank you.
Statement of Endorsement
by Angel Morales Lugo, NTEU member since 2018
I am 100% behind Jenn’s candidacy. I have worked for the SSA for close to 11 years now. I have worked as a Teleservice Representative, Case Manager, Language Specialist, Decision Writer, and as a Disability Examiner. As such, I can talk a little about the wonderful co-workers I have encountered during my time in the agency. I met Jenn close to one year ago when I needed advice from the Union concerning personnel transactions that I needed to make. Jenn not only offered to help; she maintained an open line of communication even after regular working hours. She offered her personal cell phone number to be contacted, and delineated a “surgical strategy” as I call it, to help me achieve the desired outcome. Jenn is a very reliable and intelligent person, who one will always want to have advocating for our team.
Jenn knows our work, is the perfect example of a team player, and is the correct candidate to fill any position within the NTEU ranks. Although I am sure that all of the candidates running to be selected as Vice President at Large are good, Jenn is the ideal person to fill that chair.
In today’s work circumstances and the labor wars ahead, we need more people like Jenn to advocate and assist in our efforts.
“En La Union Esta La Fuerza”
Best regards brothers and sisters.
Statement of Endorsement by Ashwin Iyengar
I believe Jess Murphy is the best candidate for EVP/Chief Steward because she is a proven leader who is passionate about advocating for other members of our chapter. I am new to working in the federal government, and Jess was very helpful in terms of offering me professional guidance and support. I am confident she will do a fine job in this position.
Statement of Endorsement by an NTEU Member
I fully endorse Jess Murphy for the position of EVP/Chief steward. I’ve known Jess for about 3 years since she voluntarily started working with our region. She is incredibly intelligent, a strategic thinker and planner, and very responsive and generous with her time. She is a tremendous asset to NTEU. NTEU needs her extensive knowledge, experience, dedication, and advocacy. She is the best candidate for this office.
Statement of Endorsement by Matina McDaniel
The ability to be both the attorney and a union member is extraordinary, but if you haven’t interacted yet with Jess Murphy or Kim Ryan, the union may seem nebulous and distant. Jess and Kim crush that misperception. Jess has given me effective counsel on my labor rights, bringing the strength of union representation from across country directly to my doorstep. She is indefatigable, resourceful and effective. Working with Kim in San Francisco, I have seen firsthand how she leads with solid reasoning, speaks with conviction, and has a steely resolve. We need their strength now more than ever.
Statement of Endorsement by Sapna Llano
I am enthused and proud to endorse Jessica (Jess) Murphy for Executive Vice President/Chief Steward of NTEU Chapter 224. Jess has been a source of inspiration and guidance to me since I started at SSA about two years ago. She has supported me both professionally and personally, and is a true mentor and guide. Whenever I have a question or need help, she is there. She also represented me in my reasonable accommodation request—she was knowledgeable, well-spoken, and always one step ahead, anticipating what was needed before I even realized it.
Jess is the kind of person who makes time for others, gets to know people and listens carefully. Just as important, she knows when to take action and speak up to ensure things are handled the right way and in accordance with the rules.
Beyond what she’s done for me, I’ve seen the impact she has across our workplace. Many speak highly of her. It’s common to hear, “Ask Jess” or “Jess must know the answer to that.” This reputation speaks volumes about the respect she has earned from others in SSA.
In short, Jess is not only a genuine and all around great person but also a valuable source of information and a true asset to our organization. She looks out for members, makes sure they know their rights, and helps them navigate the process when they need to ask for something. She brings compassion, knowledge and determination to everything she does, and she has the highest respect and trust of the people she represents.
I believe Jess is exactly the kind of leader NTEU Chapter 224 needs in the next Executive Vice President and Chief Steward, and I fully support and endorse her candidacy.
Thank you.
Statement of Endorsement by Gini Varkey
I am pleased to endorse Jess Murphy for Executive Vice President/Chief Steward. Jess offered me professional guidance and support, and connected me to resources within the agency that I would otherwise be unaware of. She was readily accessible in addressing my concerns and I am confident that she will continue to advance the interests of all Union members.
Statement of Endorsement by R. Matt Senseny
I would like to lend my endorsement to Jessica Murphy for the position of Executive Vice President and Chief Steward. I have experience working with Jessica in both a personal and professional manner.
Professionally, I served in an Executive position some years ago for Chapter 224 of NTEU. Jess was (and is) a strong and unwavering advocate for all employees in our bargaining unit.
Personally, I know her advocacy skills were strong, but did not know how strong until she represented me in an action management took against me. Her skillful preparation and affirming counsel put me at ease. She (we) prevailed with a good result.
I cannot recommend her enough for this important position at NTEU Chapter 224.
Statement of Endorsement by Helen Varsos
I have known Jessica Murphy for many years as she faithfully served as my Regional Vice President. Jessica has always been very responsive and helpful whenever I needed her. She has been a consummate professional in all our dealings and has always advocated for all of the bargaining unit employees. She truly listens to the needs of the members and takes action. Jessica genuinely cares about the issues that affect all of us. I know she will continue to advocate and fight hard for everyone if elected. Jessica is a dedicated public servant who wants to make a difference and if given the opportunity, she will because she knows what matters most. I wholeheartedly endorse Jessica Murphy as our next Union Executive Vice President and Chief Steward.
Statement of Endorsement by Chris Danecek
I have had the opportunity to work with Jessica Murphy on several occasions where union support was essential. Her extensive knowledge and experience were evident as she provided me with thoughtful guidance and unwavering support during challenging times. In addition to her professionalism, Jess brings a kind, empathetic, and approachable demeanor that makes her a pleasure to work with. I fully endorse her candidacy for Executive Vice President/Chief Steward and am confident she will be a strong and compassionate advocate for our members.
Statement of Endorsement by Aaron Kochar
Jess recently advocated for me in negotiations with the Agency; she provided expert knowledge and strategic counsel on my options—not just the formal issues, but also on the potential ripple effects of pressing ahead further, given the current climate. Her patience, dedication, and compassion helped me navigate the difficult process.
Statement of Endorsement by Andrew Salib
I have had the great fortune of not only working with Jessica Murphy, but also getting to know her on a personal level. She is as kind and empathetic as she is knowledgeable and zealous in her representation of union members. Her guidance and advisement related to a professional issue I faced was invaluable and I make this endorsement with the fullest confidence that, as our Executive Vice President/Chief Steward, she will do an incredible jobs of safeguarding our rights and advancing the cause of our membership. Thank you Jessica for all that you’ve done for me and my family.
Statement of Endorsement by Mishaela Kirkpatrick
I am honored to endorse Jessica Murphy for the position of Executive Vice President/Chief Steward!
Previously, I spent over a decade in the private sector, without the support and guidance of a union. Since becoming a member of NTEU, I’ve realized the significance of having strong representation and reliable, transparent leadership to serve as our collective voice, especially now. I am confident that is exactly what Jess (and Team Trailblazers) will do on our behalf if elected!
Based on my own personal experience with Jess in her representative capacity, I know she has the requisite knowledge, experience, leadership skills, and positive attitude to provide the highest level of representation to all members of NTEU. Moreover, I am certain she will ask the right questions, consider every angle, and advocate tirelessly on our behalf to ensure NTEU’s success, keeping us informed every step of the way.
Statement of Endorsement by Kathy Tomlinson
I currently serve as the R5 (formerly known as) Vice President for NTEU. I am also a “newer” rep/steward. I have with with Jessica Murphy since I became a rep. I want to emphasize what I have seen working with Jess. She is incredibly dedicated to her role as a rep/steward. Even after hours, she is willing to talk to me about issues I may be having professionally, but also about any personal issues I have. This is not just a sympathetic ear. Jess has worked with members/non-members alike on any number of employment related issues including RAs, unfavorable PACS, disciplinary issues, and the like. If she doesn’t know the answer, she finds it out. Then she is happy to share this information with newbies like myself.
Jess is respectful and courteous to others. She may disagree with what a supervisor is saying or doing, but she maintains a professionalism that benefits NTEU. She is also kind and sympathetic to the employee she is helping. She may not be able to “fix” the issue, but that does not mean she doesn’t care about you professionally. She will check up with you just to make sure you’re doing okay. Again, this may not be on “official time” but on her own time.
Jess works at doing our job. She is an SAA and performs that work but additionally she “writes” just like the rest of us. She “gets” our woes. She sees the weird DWI and she experiences the technology issues we have.
I write this because I support Jessica Murphy in her run for office. I don’t write this because I have issues with any other candidate. I just know she is the right person for the job because I have worked with her. I do count her as a friend and have benefitted from her friendship but even with that bein said, I still firmly believe that she is the right person for the job. She shares her knowledge. She is willing to mentor and hep others. She is inclusive and professional. She puts the organization above her own needs. She is organized. She will use her wealth of information to benefit all of us. I hope you will consider her and vote for her in this year’s election,
Statement of Endorsement by Ben Vidic
As a member of NTEU, I endorse Jess Murphy for the position of Executive Vice President/Chief Steward and hope you give her the opportunity to serve in this position. When I have reached out to her for guidance and help on issues, she has always responded within 24 hours and has even used her vacation time to help me when problems have arisen. Jess will help bring transparency to the Board, ensure meeting minutes are freely available, and post updated on the Union website.
Statement of Endorsement by Jon Kelley
Jess Murphy was my rock and union representative during a very trying time, and during COVID to boot. Supportive, kind and generous with her time despite the fact that we were all struggling. Also fierce and fearless in her representation over me. It didn’t stop there. When I left government service, her endorsement was the primary reason that I landed on my feet. I couldn’t imagine a better Chief Steward. Vote Jess Murphy and Team Trailblazers!
Statement of Endorsement by Lauryn Slotnik
Jessica Murphy has been so helpful any time I’ve contacted her, both in advice for professional concerns and issues, and in connecting me to a knowledgeable representative when needed for a meeting. She stays on top of all issues we may need to be apprised of, and keeps us informed by regular emails and updates. I highly recommend her for Executive Vice President/Chief Steward as she is thoroughly devoted to her coworkers in NTEU in any way she can help or advise them. I can’t speak highly enough of Jessica for any position in NTEU she may pursue.
Statement of Endorsement by Nate Koppel
I endorse Jessica Murphy for Executive Vice President/Chief Steward as she has always been responsive, helpful, and knowledgeable. Her assistance has been invaluable in helping me as a federal employee and demonstrates commitment to the needs of NTEU that I can personally attest to.
Statement of Endorsement by Krishna Stark, former SAA
I highly recommend Jessica Murphy to serve as Executive Vice President/Chief Steward.
I have been the lucky recipient of Jessica’s assistance on a couple of occasions. In the first instance, she prevailed in having an AWOL charge removed, and in the other, provided valuable guidance regarding speech recognition software.
Additionally, Jessica kept union members informed of recent developments. Jessica’s commitment to the union members was consistently demonstrated by her ready availability and support to those with questions or in need of assistance.
Given Jessica’s clear dedication and based on my personal experience, I can say without reservation that she would make a terrific EVP/Chief Steward.