AFGE Local 2779

Ruth Browne, President

Representing federal employees at the NF/SG VA Medical Center, Gainesville, Florida

“Still in the fight. Still at the table. "

Workplace Rights

Helping bargaining-unit employees understand and exercise their rights under applicable labor laws and negotiated agreements.

Safe Working Conditions

Advocating for proper safety procedures, protective equipment, adequate staffing, and responsible workplace practices.

Fair Pay and Benefits

Supporting employees in matters involving pay, leave, benefits, schedules, and other conditions of employment.

What

We Fight

For

Representation and Due Process

Assisting eligible employees with grievances, disciplinary matters, workplace disputes, and administrative proceedings.

A Stronger Employee Voice

Giving employees a collective platform to raise concerns and participate in decisions affecting their work.

Quality Veteran Care

Supporting the VA professionals whose working conditions directly influence the quality and consistency of services veterans receive.

Ruth Browne

PRESIDENT, AFGE LOCAL 2779

A veteran who now fights for The Union

Ruth Browne is a long-serving union leader and the documented President of AFGE Local 2779. Her leadership history includes service as executive vice president, secretary-treasurer, acting president, and president.

Browne has consistently advocated for workplace fairness, employee safety, and accountability. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she publicly supported efforts to secure appropriate protective equipment, safety protocols, and fair leave practices for employees at Gainesville’s Malcolm Randall VA Medical Center.

As president, she leads a local representing employees throughout the North Florida/South Georgia VA system. Her work focuses on protecting employee rights, improving communication, strengthening participation, and connecting members with resources that support both their careers and futures.

"Protecting VA employees means protecting the people who care for our nation’s veterans every day."

Ruth Browne, President, AFGE Local 2779

Leadership Timeline

01

Executive Vice President

2014–2015

Public filings identify Ruth Browne as an executive vice president of AFGE Local 2779, supporting employee representation and local leadership.

02

Secretary-Treasurer

2016–2019

Browne served as secretary-treasurer, taking on important administrative, financial, and organizational responsibilities within the local.

03

Acting President and Employee Advocate

2020

Browne served as acting president and executive vice president. During the pandemic, she publicly advocated for stronger employee safety procedures, protective equipment, and fair leave practices.

04

President

2021–Present

IRS-derived filings identify Browne as President of Local 2779 beginning in 2021 and continuing through the latest publicly available filing.

YOUR UNION PROTECTS THE JOB. WE HELP YOU UNDERSTAND THE BENEFITS

AFGE Local 2779 advocates for VA employees in the workplace. PWR Retirement Group complements that work by providing education about federal benefits, income protection, and retirement preparation. Together, these resources help members become more informed about both their workplace rights and financial futures.

Protects your job & rights

Bargaining, grievances, safety, and representation the union work that keeps you protected on campus.

Become A Member of AFGE Local 2779

Helps you understand your benefits

Plain-language education on the federal benefits and retirement tools you already have — so you can make your own informed decisions.

Book Your Free Consultation

FINANCIAL TOOLS EXCLUSIVELY FOR UNION MEMBERS

Become a Union Member to unlock these tools and start planning with more confidence.

Thrift Savings Plan

Thrift Savings Plan

Understand your TSP options and plan confidently for retirement.

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TSP Distribution Options

TSP Distribution Options

Learn how to manage your TSP withdrawals wisely after retirement.

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Federal Life Insurance

Federal Life Insurance

Make confident decisions about your federal life insurance benefits.

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Federal Disability Retirement

Federal Disability Retirement

Protect your income and future with a clearer understanding of disability benefits.

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Retirement Calculators

Retirement Calculators

Calculate your retirement outlook and take smarter steps toward your goals.

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Office Of Personal Management

Office Of Personal Management

Use your money more efficiently while planning for future financial security.

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Educational Events

Build confidence through educational sessions focused on your retirement and financial goals.

Educational Workshop On Federal Retirement Benefits

PWR Retirement Group, in partnership with AFGE Local 2779 and President Ruth Browne, invites union members and other eligible federal employees to a free educational workshop.

Depot Event Space
201 SE Depot Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601, USA
July 26, 2026
8:30 AM - 2:30 PM

THE PWR APP, BUILT FOR
FEDERAL EMPLOYEES

Everything from calculators to workshop sign-up in one place — with MIKE, an in-app assistant that helps you find your way around your own benefits.

Retirement Calculators

Know your numbers

Easy Workshop Enrollments

Save your seat in seconds

Meet MIKE

Your 24/7 Personal Agent

TSP & FERS Tools

Understand your accounts

STAND WITH YOUR LOCAL. UNDERSTAND YOUR BENEFITS.

Connect with your Local today and start planning your future with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Local 2779 represents eligible bargaining-unit employees across the North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, including employees serving Gainesville, Ocala, Jacksonville, and surrounding communities.

Ruth Browne is the documented President of AFGE Local 2779. She previously served in several leadership positions, including executive vice president, secretary-treasurer, and acting president.

Depending on an employee’s bargaining-unit status and circumstances, the local may assist with workplace concerns, grievances, disciplinary matters, proposed changes in working conditions, pay, benefits, and administrative proceedings.

The event is designed for AFGE members, bargaining-unit employees, and federal employees who want to better understand their workplace protections and federal benefits.

Yes. Registration and lunch are free, but advance registration is recommended because seating may be limited.