Oregon Nurses Association Executive Director Resigns
The state nurses union appoints an interim leader following the resignation of long-term executive director Anne Tan Piazza.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Nursing Jobs
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Anne Tan Piazza has stepped down as the executive director of the Oregon Nurses Association. Paige Spence has been appointed to serve as the interim director following the resignation.
Why it matters
The leadership change follows a period of internal conflict, including a no-confidence vote by staff and public criticism of the executive director's contract by the union board. These tensions coincided with a shift in governance when a new reform-minded slate took control of the union earlier this year.
The Oregon Nurses Association currently represents 25,000 members across the state. During the tenure of the outgoing executive director, the union successfully expanded its ranks by adding 10,000 new members.
The players
Anne Tan Piazza
She served as the executive director of the Oregon Nurses Association until her resignation.
Paige Spence
She is the interim director of the Oregon Nurses Association.
Coalition for Powerful Reform
This group is the newly elected governing slate that took office within the union board in July 2026.
The details
Anne Tan Piazza, who went on leave on July 30, 2026, cited an incident of racist harassment and intimidation surrounding her departure. The transition follows a contentious period marked by a staff no-confidence vote and the installation of the Coalition for Powerful Reform in leadership roles.
Timeline
The Coalition for Powerful Reform took office in July 2026.
Piazza began leave on July 30, 2026, citing harassment.
The official report regarding the departure was published on October 29, 2026.
Market Landscape
This leadership transition reflects broader internal power shifts within professional unions as newly elected reform coalitions assume control. Such changes often signal a restructuring of organizational priorities and contractual oversight in competitive labor sectors.
The transition to interim leadership at the Oregon Nurses Association may influence upcoming collective bargaining negotiations and internal union policies. Members should monitor official union communications for updates on how this change affects long-term representation and advocacy efforts.
The takeaway
Leadership instability within a major union can create uncertainty regarding the immediate direction of advocacy and contract enforcement. Members are encouraged to stay engaged with board communications to understand how the new interim leadership will impact ongoing initiatives.
Further reading
For more information on the evolving labor landscape, visit the Nursing Jobs section.
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