Annelise Henderson
Excellence in Leadership and Advocacy Award Recipient Profile
Annelise Henderson is a registered nurse working in acute care at Richmond Hospital. With over 35 years of nursing experience, she serves as a steward and regional ratio representative for BCNU’s Richmond-Vancouver region. Henderson was also a member of the Nurses’ Bargaining Association provincial bargaining committee, which helped negotiate the 2023 agreement to establish minimum nurse-to-patient ratios in BC.
Richmond-Vancouver regional council member Raina Sidhu strongly supported Henderson’s nomination. “Annelise possesses clarity and conviction, and she leads with action, integrity and consistency,” she states, adding that Henderson made a strong impact in her region in 2025 when she stepped into a support role for two full-time stewards.
“Annelise offered mentorship and day-to-day help with complex contract questions and addressed members’ concerns,” explains Sidhu, noting Henderson delayed the start of her planned retirement to provide the extra assistance.
“Annelise’s background as a former regional executive member provided valuable historical context,” says Sidhu, “and her actions show she is deeply committed to collectivity, solidarity and the long-term strength of our union.”
BCNU full-time steward Shannon Wright has worked with Henderson for over 15 years. “There is no one I would trust more than Annelise to assess an issue with honesty and integrity,” Wright says. “She stands up for social justice, even when it puts her in difficult position.”
BCNU steward and Richmond-Vancouver regional occupational health and safety rep Kathie Hutchinson has worked with Henderson for over 30 years. “Annelise is a colleague, friend, mother and grandmother who has donated countless hours as a volunteer coach and mentor of youth fastpitch players in her community,” Hutchinson shares. “Throughout her career, Annelise has been a powerful example of excellence in patient care, and she has my strong endorsement for this award.”
Congratulations Annelise!