OPEA

The new OPEA Board of Directors

The OPEA Board held its first meeting of 2010 on Saturday, February 6th, welcoming several new Directors.

Part of the new OPEA Board, taking the oath of office.  From left, Rita Heath, Glenn Hightower, Mike Jackson

"I want to thank every member who voted to take our organization in this new direction," said President Connie Stockton.  "Returning to a regional representation will allow us to better serve all members throughout the state.  I was very pleased to see such dedicated leaders today, and look forward to working with them in the months and years to come."

Stockton presided over Saturday's meeting, swearing in several new members: 

The new board is as follows: 

Region 1:  Mike Rogers

Region 2:  Hank Swearingen

Region 3:  Jann Ensz

Region 4:  Mark S. Finch

Region 5:  Carrie D. Croy

                  Patricia Naifeh Parker

                  Thomas Kalayilparampil

Region 6:  Dixie Jackson

                   Susan F. Adams

Region 7:  Rita Ann Heath

Region 8:  Harold Wright

Region 9:  Kenneth Burrow

Retiree Region West:  Glenn Hightower

Retiree Region East:  Carol Miller

No candidates filed for the director’s position in Region 11, so the Board will appoint a director for that region.

"With furloughs, voluntary buyouts, and RIFs, state employees have a rough road ahead. But OPEA will be there as we have for 35 years," Stockton said.  "I urge every new director, as well as every member, to get active in your Association, talk to your co-workers and let's make OPEA the strongest its ever been."