By: Sydney Slifka, Colorado Education Association Staff Organization
Occasionally, the National Staff Organization (NSO) presents the Mother Jones Award for Outstanding Union Activism to one of its members whose commitment to organizing and advocacy echoes the legacy of Mary G. Harris “Mother” Jones. Known for organizing mine workers, empowering women, and never backing down from a fight for justice or workers’ rights, Mother Jones symbolizes the heart and soul of the labor movement.
This year, NSO proudly honors Jan Dvorak as the 2025 recipient of the Mother Jones Award.
Jan recently retired from Missouri NEA after nearly 36 years as an administrative assistant in the Kansas City Regional Office. Her legacy is one of solidarity, advocacy, and a deep understanding of what it means to show up for union siblings every day, no matter the challenge.
A force at the bargaining table, Jan served on the Missouri Staff Organization bargaining team for most of her career, often leading negotiations as the chair. She also served as grievance chair, challenging management when decisions threatened her colleagues’ rights.
Her commitment to the labor movement didn’t stop when she clocked out. Jan was just as active in her broader community, bringing the same energy and tenacity to local fights for justice, often joining grassroots efforts and advocacy campaigns both in person and online.
Even in retirement, Jan continues to live out the values that defined her career. As she shared at the 2025 Representative Assembly in New Orleans, “It always felt right standing up for my union brothers and sisters with our contract protections and our union rights. We made many strides in furthering the strength, protection, and benefits of our staff. It always felt righteous to defend what was often sorely needed by my fellow staff.” That spirit of showing up, speaking out, and fighting for her union family makes her a perfect embodiment of the Mother Jones legacy.
The National Staff Organization represents union staff across the country and serves as a unifying voice for professionals who strengthen and support the labor movement.
Grounded in a commitment to leadership, advocacy, stability and justice, NSO empowers its members to build strong contracts, protect union values and champion the rights of workers nationwide. Learn more at www.nationalstaff.org.
Congrats….well deserved!!