Cynthia O'Rourke | Labor Representative
Cynthia began her career in the entertainment industry as a makeup artist and longtime member of IATSE Local 798, where she served as committee chair, Secretary-Treasurer, and Delegate. She has also worked as an organizer and labor representative for several IATSE Locals, leading successful campaigns—including one that secured voluntary recognition from Netflix—and bringing experience in bargaining, contract enforcement, and member engagement. Cynthia holds a BFA from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts and a master’s degree in labor studies from CUNY’s Murphy Institute, where she was a Joseph S. Murphy Diversity Scholar. She is excited to bring her passion for union labor to the healthcare sector with NYPNU.
Contact: [email protected]
Elizabeth Baker | Associate Executive Director
Elizabeth joined NYPNU as Associate Executive Director in August 2025, bringing more than 30 years of labor movement experience. A graduate of Amherst College and NYU School of Law, she has fought for workers at the NLRB, in court—including the 1999 case that saved Manhattan Eye Ear and Throat Hospital—and through leadership roles at SEIU Local 32BJ, where she became Bargaining Director for the Greater New York Area. At the bargaining table and as a trustee for health and pension funds, Elizabeth secured major improvements in benefits while advancing strategic organizing and member engagement. She lives in New Jersey with her husband, also a union activist, and their daughters.
Contact: [email protected]
Marjorie Cueva | Office Manager
Marjorie is proud to serve as the Office Manager at NYPNU. She was first introduced to the labor movement through her mother, and she has worked for unions since her very first job. Since immigrating from Ecuador, Marjorie has dedicated her professional career to supporting union operations and member services. She brings to NYPNU an associate’s degree in accounting from LaGuardia Community College and more than 18 years of experience working with NY unions including LiUNA Local 78, LiUNA Local 66, and UA Local Union No. 1. At NYPNU, Marjorie’s focus on the efficiency of the union’s office operations and providing critical organizational support strengthens NYPNU’s ability to advocate for nurses and the nursing profession.
Contact: [email protected]
Shadia Rustveld | 9 East/Lachman, Nights
I've had the privilege of experiencing the resilience and dedication of our union firsthand. I’ve started off working as a MedSurg nurse in 2021, and recently transitioned to CTICU in 2024. I'm passionate about advocating for the rights and needs of nurses, and I believe that together, we have the power to drive meaningful change and shape a brighter future for our profession. I'm thrilled to be part of a union that shares my commitment to empowering nurses and amplifying their voices.
Anna Givant | RN Payor Specialist, Days
I’m an RN with over 25 years of experience. Knowing how much challenges our job presents us on a daily basis I would like to help as much as possible to make it smoother and to fight for fair working conditions and compensation.
Afi Yellow-Duke | Labor Representative
Afi's time in the labor movement began in 2017 while working as a production assistant at StoryCorps. She quickly joined the bargaining committee, and later served as a shop steward while working at WNYC. Over the years, she's been deeply moved by the transformative power of solidarity and member-driven organizing.
As an audio producer and editor, Afi's work has also appeared in outlets including Virginia Public Media, BRIC, and Audible Originals, and was nominated for a Peabody Award in 2019. Afi was also recognized in the 2019 "Bitch 50" from Bitch Media as among the "most impactful creators, artists, and activists in pop culture." Afi is excited to bring their storytelling skills and passion for organizing to NYPNU. Afi holds a B.A. in Sociology/Anthropology and Dance from Middlebury College, and is a lifelong Brooklynite.
Contact: [email protected]
Niamh Girdusky | 7 East, Days
My name is Niamh, 10 points to anyone who can pronounce it correctly! I started my nursing career in step down, and made my way to where I am currently in MICU. Starting as a new grad in 2020 in the throws of Covid was interesting to say the least, and allowed me the privilege of working with experienced nurses who could offer me perspective on nursing pre and post Covid. I learned about problems in the nursing field that existed before, but were exacerbated by Covid. With new issues about the mistreatment of nurses coming to light, I decided that it is an honor and duty for me to fight for justice and fairness for nurses. I am so thankful to be a part of NYPNU and to have such a wonderful union to guide me towards being an advocate for workers' rights!
Odalis Smith | PACU, Evenings
I have been a nurse for 28 years. I worked on 4 Uris, CCU for many years, and now PACU.
I am always willing to go the extra mile for patients and their families. I love to help out during codes and emergencies. I am energetic have a big heart and extremely supportive of my fellow nurses. I became a delegate to ensure patients get the best possible care and to be the voice and support for nurses to be able to practice in a safe working environment.
Teresa Antonio | Ambi-Surge, Days
I have critical care experience and BS Degree of Psychology. I was an ER nurse for a decade. I love challenges that make me a stronger person. As new delegate, I love to help my colleagues. I want them to feel that they are not alone and NYPNU is always there for them.