WSNA Executive Director David Keepnews to step down August 2026 

Dear Colleagues,

I have recently informed the WSNA Board of Directors that I plan to retire from my role as Executive Director at the end of August next year (2026). It is a privilege and an honor to serve in this role. I have served with remarkable leadership teams on our Board of Directors, Labor Executive Council, and others at the state, regional, and local level—and with a WSNA staff that, every day, demonstrates its effectiveness and its commitment to our members and to advancing our profession in this state.

When I step down next year, I will have spent five years as Executive Director. This is the craziest and busiest job I have ever had. I truly love it. This is the highlight of my almost 45 years as a nurse. But it’s time to move on to the next stage of my life.

I’ve had a chance to see us grow in numbers, influence, impact, and effectiveness. I have seen us stand up on the issues that matter—safe staffing, stopping workplace violence, health equity, science- and evidence-based health, fairness, respect, and dignity for nurses and all working people. (Not a complete list).

I’ve had the opportunity to grow our voice within our professional association, ANA, and to strengthen our ties with the labor movement through the Washington State Labor Council and our national labor partner, AFT, whose dynamic leadership team, particularly President Randi Weingarten, has provided critical guidance and support in standing up for our members, our communities, and our nation through these unprecedented and chaotic times.

I have given the Board a year’s notice in order to provide time to find a new Executive Director and to allow for a sufficient transition period. The Board will soon be launching a search. At this point, I can say that the new ED will need to be ready to work hard in advancing our profession, fighting for a better life for our members, for all nurses, and for our communities, and to love doing it.

I plan to be fully present for the next year—there is too much work to be done for me to slow down just yet.

With respect and solidarity,

David Keepnews, PhD, JD, RN, FAAN
WSNA Executive Director