Meet the WAGE Leadership Team

Our team is a dynamic and diverse group of professionals who are deeply committed to the values and goals that WAGE stands for.

With a wealth of experience in various fields relevant to public employment, every member of WAGE’s leadership team brings a unique set of skills and perspectives to the table. Together, they ensure that WAGE remains a beacon of independence, collaboration, and empowerment for public employee organizations across the United States.

Our leadership team shares a passion for public service and championing employee rights. From labor law and collective bargaining to public policy and employee relations, our leaders are experts in areas that matter most to our members. They’re not just administrators; they are advocates, mentors, and visionaries who are dedicated to uplifting the status and interests of all public workers.

Executive Board

The Executive Board consists of key individuals who hold leadership positions within WAGE. These dedicated professionals are elected to their roles and provide strategic direction to the organization.

  • President, DeAndre Caruthers
    Las Vegas City Employees' Association

    • Leads WAGE and represents the organization both internally and externally and sets the overall vision and direction for the organization.

  • Vice President, Uriah Wise
    Carson City Employees Association

    • Supports the President, assumes their responsibilities when necessary, and plays a pivotal role in decision-making and leadership.

  • Secretary, Ron Lira
    Glendale City Employees’ Association

    • Responsible for keeping records of meetings, maintaining important documents, and ensuring transparency and accountability within the organization.

  • Treasurer, Danette Shipley
    Organization of SMUD Employees

    • Oversees the financial aspects of WAGE, including budgeting and financial planning, and plays a critical role in managing the organization's resources.

  • Member At Large, Marshall Terry
    Virginia Governmental Employees Association

    • Represents the interests of members and provides valuable insights into the needs and concerns of public employee organizations.

  • Executive Director, Liz B. Baker
    Nimbology & Virginia Governmental Employees Association

    • Oversees daily operations, implements strategic initiatives, and drives organizational growth and member engagement for WAGE.

Board of Directors

The Board of Directors is responsible for the day-to-day administration of WAGE between regular meetings. They help implement the organization's strategic initiatives and ensure that the mission and vision are being upheld. Board members are elected from among the member organizations and are chosen based on their commitment to WAGE's values.

  • Paul Hannula
    California Association of Psychiatric Technicians

  • Emily Landis
    San Luis Obispo County Employees’ Association

  • David Larson
    Indiana State Employees Association

  • Matt Polley
    Washoe County Employees’ Association

  • Lori Rotterman
    Dayton Metro Library Staff Association

  • Candice Steel
    Oklahoma Public Employees’ Association

Forming Our Leadership Team

The formation of the WAGE Leadership Team is a critical process that ensures the effective operation of our organization. Comprising dedicated professionals who are passionate about public service and employee rights, the Leadership Team plays a vital role in guiding WAGE toward achieving its mission and vision.

Leadership Transition

The leadership team transitions periodically through elections, ensuring fresh perspectives and ideas are continually brought to the forefront. This process ensures that WAGE remains dynamic, adaptive, and aligned with the evolving needs of our member organizations.

WAGE Leadership

We take great pride in our Leadership Team, as they exemplify the values of independence, collaboration, and ethical excellence that define WAGE.

Their dedication is the driving force behind our continued success in empowering independent public employee organizations nationwide.

Contact the WAGE team