Champion ETC

April Payne - Mann Grandstaff VA Hospital 

April Payne is the Facilities Controlled Correspondence Coordinator for Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center and has been the ETC since 2024.

She markets her program to nearly 1500 employees at their facility in northwest Spokane. The VA has a very robust program. They offer fully subsidized STA Rideshare and transit fares. They also have a strong carpool initiative, flexible work schedules including compressed work schedules and select telework options. In addition, they offer bike racks, showers and lockers.

April’s greatest challenge is getting her employees to complete the commute calendars. Federal employees are restricted to what incentives they can accept, so there is little incentive to update their calendars. However, April is consistently coming up with new and creative ways to get her employees to participate.

April enjoys knowing she is helping people and the environment at the same time! She likes being able to connect with employees, helping them find a more sustainable and cost-effective commute. She also sets a great example by carpooling with her husband.

April’s proudest moment was achieving the Silver level of achievement in 2024. That’s the highest level achieved from the VA since the Champions Program was launched in 2017. A large part of that success is the extra effort she puts in the area of ETC Engagement.

April stated, “The positive impact this role has on both people and the planet really makes it worthwhile and helps fill my bucket.”

Congratulations April!