2025-2026 Board of Directors

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT.

Erika Alfaro is a Public Health Nurse with a strong commitment to community health, equity, and advocacy. As Immediate Past President, she provides leadership continuity and guidance to support the chapter’s mission and long-term goals. Erika brings valuable experience in public health and organizational leadership, and she remains deeply dedicated to empowering nurses, strengthening community partnerships, and advancing the work of the Golden Gate NAHN chapter.

PRESIDENT.

Rubi Alva de Hickson is a highly experienced Critical Care Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in advanced clinical care, leadership, and advocacy. As President, she leads the chapter with a clear vision focused on professional development, community engagement, and health equity. Rubi is deeply committed to supporting nurses at all stages of their careers while strengthening the chapter’s impact through education, collaboration, and service.

PRESIDENT ELECT.

Claudia Uribe is a NICU Nurse Educator with a strong passion for leadership development and advancing nursing practice. As President-Elect, she supports the chapter’s strategic initiatives while preparing to continue its mission of advocacy, professional growth, and community engagement. Claudia brings valuable expertise in clinical education and mentorship, and she is committed to empowering nurses and fostering the next generation of leaders.

SECRETARY

Mishelle Ganchala is an Emergency Room Nurse with a strong dedication to patient advocacy, organization, and teamwork. As Secretary, she plays a key role in supporting the chapter’s operations by maintaining clear communication, documentation, and continuity across meetings and initiatives. Mishelle brings a detail-oriented approach and a collaborative spirit that helps keep the chapter organized, informed, and connected.

POLICY AND ADVOCACY CHAIR

Veronica Bargas is a Critical Care Nurse and Director of Critical Services with extensive experience in clinical leadership and healthcare systems. As Director of Policy and Advocacy, she leads efforts to promote health equity, amplify nursing voices, and advance policies that impact both patients and the nursing profession. Veronica brings a strategic, informed perspective to advocacy work and is deeply committed to creating meaningful change through education, engagement, and leadership.

COMMUNICATIONS CHAIR.

Maria Tapp is a Critical Care Registered Nurse with a strong focus on digital strategy, storytelling, and community engagement. As Director of Communications, she leads the chapter’s digital presence, social media strategy, website content, and member communications to ensure consistent, engaging, and mission-driven messaging. Maria is passionate about using digital platforms to amplify the chapter’s impact, increase visibility, and strengthen connections across the nursing and community network.

COMMUNITY AND OUTREACH CHAIR

 Evelyn Jimenez is a New Graduate Registered Nurse with a strong passion for community engagement, service, and health equity. As Director of Community Outreach, she helps coordinate volunteer opportunities and outreach initiatives that connect nurses with the communities they serve. Evelyn brings enthusiasm, fresh perspective, and a commitment to building meaningful partnerships that promote education, access, and support.

MEMBERSHIP CHAIR.

Ivan Zygarewicz is an Emergency Room Nurse with a strong commitment to engagement, inclusion, and professional growth. As Director of Membership, he focuses on welcoming new members, supporting member involvement, and strengthening connections within the chapter. Ivan is dedicated to creating an inclusive and supportive environment where members feel valued, connected, and inspired to participate.

TREASURE

Theresa Neil is an Emergency Room Nurse Manager with extensive experience in healthcare leadership and operations. As Treasurer, she oversees the chapter’s financial management, budgeting, and fiscal accountability, ensuring responsible stewardship of resources. Theresa brings a detail-oriented and strategic approach that supports the chapter’s sustainability and ability to advance its mission.
 

Mentorship CHAIR

Mercedes Hernandez is a Critical Care Registered Nurse with a strong passion for mentorship, professional development, and leadership growth. As Director of Mentorship, she leads initiatives that support nurses at all stages of their careers through guidance, connection, and shared learning. Mercedes is committed to fostering a supportive environment that empowers members to grow, succeed, and thrive within the nursing profession.