Bialke Named Executive Director of Minnesota Nurses Association

ST. PAUL, Minn., Aug. 27 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- After a nationwide
search, James Bialke has been appointed Executive Director of the Minnesota
Nurses Association (MNA). In assuming his duties on September 11, 2008, he
will lead a strong and growing membership representing 20,000 of the state's
registered nurses.
Mr. Bialke returns to the Association after serving eight years with the
Service Employees International Union; the last two and one half years as
Assistant to President Julie K. Schnell at SEIU Healthcare Minnesota (Local
113). During his prior tenure at MNA as Director of Labor Relations Programs,
Mr. Bialke forged a legacy of helping nurses expand their influence in the
workplace and positioning MNA as a leader in the formation of the United
American Nurses.
Mr. Bialke earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics from the
University of Minnesota, and his Masters in Industrial Relations from Carlson
School of Management, University of Minnesota. He is a member of the Labor
and Employment Relations Association and serves as the labor co-chair of the
Health Care Industry Council.
"James has an immediate understanding of the challenges facing nurses and
health care delivery," said MNA President, Linda Slattengren, RN. "We are
confident he is ready to do the work necessary for MNA to succeed, and to meet
the expectations of our members and the community."
Mr. Bialke is eager to support and implement plans set in place by MNA
members to make sure the voices of patients and frontline nurses are heard.
"I am inspired by the courage and strength shown by nurses everyday. I want
to see the Minnesota Nurses Association continue to play a critical role in
shaping the agenda for nurses, for labor unions, for health care and for our
communities. As we can find new ways to engage our 20,000 members and unleash
their creativity, Minnesota Nurses Association will expand its leadership role
and create power for its members," he said.
Uniting nurses in vision and voice since 1905. With 20,000 members, MNA
is the leading organization for registered nurses in the Midwest and is among
the oldest and largest representatives of RNs for collective bargaining in the
nation. MNA is a multi-purpose union that fosters high standards for nursing
education and practice, and works to advance the profession through
legislative activity. MNA is affiliated with the United American Nurses and
the Minnesota AFL-CIO and is a constituent member of the American Nurses
Association.
SOURCE Minnesota Nurses Association

Jan Rabbers of the Minnesota Nurses Association, +1-651-414-2861,
+1-612-860-6658 (cell)