East Kootenay

I began my nursing career in 2018 and became involved with the union in 2023 when I took on the role of steward, followed by becoming a JOHSC representative. In the fall of 2025, I joined the Regional Executive as the Mental Health representative, and I would like to continue my journey with the Regional Executive as Steward Liaison. With three years of experience as a steward, I understand the challenges that new stewards can face, particularly in our rural communities where they may be the only union representative at their worksite. I am committed to providing support, guidance, and mentorship to both new and experienced stewards to help ensure the East Kootenays continue to have a knowledgeable, confident, and reliable steward team.

Melissa has been a proud BCNU member since 2016. She began her nursing career in Calgary before relocating to Fernie to raise her family closer to the mountains.
Over the past 2 years, Melissa has served as a site steward for the Elk Valley Hospital.
As regional steward liaison, Melissa is committed to strengthening our union by developing confident, knowledgeable and supported stewards. She aims to build strong connections between regional leadership and stewards across the Kootenays by fostering collaboration, communication and shared learning.

I’m Lisa Foxworthy, an LPN at East Kootenay Regional Hospital and an active BCNU worksite steward. I became a steward because I’ve never been particularly good at sitting quietly when something isn’t right. I believe in asking questions, digging for answers, sharing what I learn and helping members understand and advocate for their rights.

As Regional Steward Liaison, my priority would be building a strong, connected steward network through recruitment, mentorship and ongoing support. I want stewards across our region to feel confident asking questions, supported when challenges arise and connected to one another. Strong stewards create strong representation, and I would be proud to help build both across our region.

I am an RN at EKRH working as a member of the Transition Liaison team. I have been a Steward and the NYNN (YNN) Regional Representative for the past 3 years. I am passionate about our Union and believe Stewards are the foundation of strong member advocacy. They are the eyes and ears of the Union and play a vital role in protecting members’ rights. Taking on the role of Steward can feel intimidating, and I want new Stewards to feel supported in an environment where asking questions-even the “silly” ones-is encouraged. If elected as Steward Liaison, I want to create a network where Stewards feel connected, supported, and comfortable sharing questions, experiences, and knowledge. Empowering Stewards strengthens our Union and supports members.

I have been an active BCNU member since 1989 and an elected BCNU Steward since 1991. Over the past 35 years, I have served as a worksite Steward, Essential Services Representative, Steward Coordinator, EK OH&S Representative, EDMP Representative, Interim Regional Chair, and Full-Time Steward-at-Large. I have also served on the EKRH JOHS Committee, including as Co-Chair, and have mentored many members to become successful stewards and activists. Guided by honesty, integrity, and respect, I am committed to supporting members, strengthening steward development, promoting collective agreement rights, and advocating for safe workplaces and quality patient care.