A New Era Begins At New Jersey’s Largest Hospitality Union

UNITE HERE Local 54 is proud to announce Donna M. DeCaprio as the new President of the Union, who was appointed by a unanimous vote earlier this year.  Ms. DeCaprio is the first female President in the history of Local 54, and her appointment marks a significant milestone for the Union and the labor movement as a whole.

DeCaprio brings a wealth of experience to her new role, having served as the Union’s Financial Secretary-Treasurer and Negotiator for many years. She began in the industry as a Barporter and then worked as a Bartender and Shop Chairman at Resort’s International Hotel Casino for over a decade while earning her bachelor’s degree.  In her role as Financial Secretary-Treasurer she dramatically improved the financial stability of Local 54 and led the Union through the COVID pandemic, creating a hotline for unemployment claims and food assistance. Most recently, DeCaprio headed up the contract negotiations in summer of 2022 winning historic wage increases, subcontracting protections and housekeeping workload reductions for Atlantic City casino workers. She has worked tirelessly to improve the lives of working people, and her dedication and commitment to the labor movement have earned her widespread respect and admiration of her colleagues.

“It has been such an honor and privilege to represent the hard-working members of Local 54 over the last 25 years. Our members are the backbone of the hospitality industry and they deserve every penny they earn and more.  I love what I do, and I look forward to continuing to fight for justice, fair wages and outstanding benefits. I know that Bob McDevitt will excel in his new role and am very proud of all we have accomplished together.”

  “We are thrilled to have Donna as our new President, said RuthAnne Joyce. She works harder than anyone I’ve ever known.  She is extremely knowledgeable and cares for the membership deeply.”

Donna DeCaprio replaces President, Bob McDevitt, who served in the role for 26 years. Long time Organizing Director Ben Albert was appointed by a unanimous vote to fill the role of Financial Secretary- Treasurer.  Javier Soto will continue to serve in the position of Vice President as he has for the last 16 years.