Carolyn Jackson has been at the forefront of the fight against the powerful Massachusetts Nurses Association union, which has been trying for years to raise the nurse-to-patient staffing ratios.
That effort was defeated in a 2018 ballot initiative, after which the union vowed to continue the fight. Now, all eyes fall on Jackson, Saint Vincent Hospital, and Dallas-based parent company Tenet Healthcare, as the MNA started striking on March 8 to increase those ratios. Despite high-profile picketers carrying signs calling for “Shame” on Jackson and politicians like Sen. Elizabeth Warren voicing their support for the union, Jackson has remained steadfast.
Beyond the strike, Jackson remains a high-profile figure, leading the 2,200-employee healthcare system and serving on boards like the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce and Massachusetts Hospital Association.
What do you think the future holds for Central Mass.? “I look forward to Saint Vincent Hospital … working collaboratively to address healthcare disparities … and partnering with businesses to control healthcare costs.”
Master builder: Jackson enjoys building LEGOs and is working on the Grand Piano. She and her family have been to the LEGOLAND theme parks in Florida and Denmark, and plan on visiting the new one in New York.
