| My name is Karina Torres-Dwyer. I arrived in the United States as an infant, immigrating with my parents from Mexico in search of a better life. I’m the oldest of six and a mother of three, a grandmother to my grandson, and I’ve been married to my best friend for 22 years. My career at Kaiser South Bay, as a Registered Nurse, began over 24 years ago. I’ve worked in the outpatient setting most of my career, from GI, cardiology, pain management, and I currently work in the bariatric/obesity medicine department. I became a union steward to be a voice for our members. Presently, I’m serving in the VP role to help build a strong, transparent, trusting, and united team that will engage and build up members. The officer role has been challenging yet it’s given me opportunities for growth. I’m dedicated to doing the necessary work to grow and encourage the leaders among us. In the union leadership role, I’ve found a purpose for helping others outside of the clinical setting. It’s with pleasure and a sense of responsibility that I will give back to the profession I love and that has given me purpose and fulfillment in my career. |