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
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.
Secretary-Treasurer
2016–2019
Browne served as secretary-treasurer, taking on important administrative, financial, and organizational responsibilities within the local.
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.
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 2779Helps 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 ConsultationFINANCIAL TOOLS EXCLUSIVELY FOR UNION MEMBERS
Become a Union Member to unlock these tools and start planning with more confidence.
TSP Distribution Options
Learn how to manage your TSP withdrawals wisely after retirement.
Explore →Federal Life Insurance
Make confident decisions about your federal life insurance benefits.
Explore →Federal Disability Retirement
Protect your income and future with a clearer understanding of disability benefits.
Explore →Retirement Calculators
Calculate your retirement outlook and take smarter steps toward your goals.
Explore →Office Of Personal Management
Use your money more efficiently while planning for future financial security.
Explore →Educational Events
Build confidence through educational sessions focused on your retirement and financial goals.
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.
STAND WITH YOUR LOCAL. UNDERSTAND YOUR BENEFITS.
Connect with your Local today and start planning your future with confidence.